Making Hood Straps

Locating the rivets is as easy as marking in a 1/4 inch from the outside edge of the strap.

Two screw-type rivets secure the backside of the strap.

The same work is done for the locking lever.

A cardboard template was made to aid in locating where the rivet holes need to be placed for the spring section.

The strap, now with the locking lever in place, is test-fitted to the hood side.

Using gloves so the oil in the worker’s hands doesn’t transfer to the leather, the lower section of the strap is assembled.

Holding the masking tape version for comparison, the spring’s location is noted on the leather strap. LimeWorks suggests having a 1/8-inch gap between the spring loops to simulate the spring tension when finished.

Here’s the completed section of the strap.

Now the entire section can be added to the hood and framerails for final assembly.