Why do I need hood pins with this hood?

The cowl design creates higher lift forces at highway speeds. Hood pins prevent flutter and ensure positive latch security. They're a safety requirement, not an option.

Will this hood seal the same way as my factory hood?

Verify your existing latch and hinge hardware before installation. The cowl profile is the same as OEM, but inspect the contact points where the hood meets the fenders to confirm proper panel gaps after mounting.

What prep do I need before painting?

Sand the clear coat finish with appropriate grit to dull the surface, then apply your primer and paint per your chosen system. The clear coat is a protective base—treat it like any factory-finished panel before repainting.