Quote:
Originally Posted by Jeff Lee
You are correct.
Reportedly there was another issue with the Challenger Shaker. Not only was there a shortage from the supplier on Challenger shaker assemblies but the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). The Challenger hood is a full length hood (regardless of application); from front edge to wiper / cowl assembly. The Barracuda or 'Cuda does not extend as far forward as it has a front header panel. In a frontal impact the Barracuda hood has some protection offered by the header panel, the Challenger hood is not protected. On a Challenger hood with a shaker opening there is less material and the hood easily buckles. This can cause the rear of the hood to raise, go through the front windshield and possibly decapitate the front occupants.
For that reason the shaker shortage was directed to the Barracuda when ordered and the T/A hood was used as a fresh air hood when ordered on the Challenger (if Shaker was not available for installation).
Thaqt's my story...I'm stickin' too it!  |
Jeff,
Not only that, but 70 Shaker hoods and 71 Shaker hoods structurally are not the same. 71 Shaker hoods incorporate what are referred to as "crush zones" into the stamped inner panel of the hood. Once you lift the hoods of subject cars, the difference is quite obvious. There are also differences in the hood hinges from 70 to 71, and they changed again in 72.
Bill Rolik
SS 1514