Custom Hoods

Custom hoods for trucks are often used to increase aesthetic appeal, giving a vehicle the look of a high-performance stock car. On a functional level, hoods can also be connected with systems that increase airflow into the engine, which can increase its power. Custom hoods are available for both purposes and come in a variety of materials, including fiberglass, composite, and steel.

How Do They Work?

Custom hoods, on a basic level, work the same way a standard hood does - attached to the truck's body with hinges and held down by a latch. Most custom hoods have deep depressions or raised, open ports at their center that allow airflow under the hood and over the engine. This process reputedly increases engine power and performance. Airflow to the engine can be further maximized by hooking the ports or depressions to a system of ducts that push air inside the engine.

Considerations When Buying a Custom Hood

Custom hoods come in many materials. Many are specific to the make and model of the vehicle they will be installed on. Fiberglass is a versatile option, but can look less finished than other materials. Steel is not as common but can be a less expensive option. Different materials will have different primers or specifications when it comes to paint.

Hood design is another factor. Some hoods are designed primarily to have a custom look, while others are designed to increase airflow to the engine. The latter may be lined and designed with ducts to ease connection to an engine's air box. They are generally more expensive than hoods designed mainly to increase a vehicle's "curb appeal".

Advantages and Disadvantages

The advantages to adding a custom hood to your truck or car are mainly an increase in aesthetics and performance. The disadvantages are similar to most other vehicle modifications - getting a low-quality hood can decrease aesthetic appeal (if loose fiberglass is visible around the edges, for example) and may be less durable than the original hood. Installing a custom hood can be difficult and may cause damage to the vehicle if done improperly.