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Perry Mack
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Perry Mack
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4WDrive Magazine
One of the most unnerving features of the Jeep Wrangler JK on the highway is hood flutter. I’ve been passed on two-lane highways by transports and honestly thought the hood would be ripped open and off, as it did everything but squawk like a frightened seagull in fear at the oncoming squall. The second concern has to do with the easy access for thieves and vandals to the engine compartment. Few locked vehicles on the road today can have their hoods opened by any passerby - like the shoppers at ‘Midnight Auto Supply’ looking for a battery…
Which is why I ordered the JK Hood Lock from Bolt Locks for 2007+ JK Wranglers. A stainless steel lock shutter protects the lock from the elements, and the design prevents bumping and picking by would be thieves. It installs in under 15 minutes using stainless steel rivets. You will need a heavy-duty hand riveter (which you typically won’t find at a Home Depot or Rona), and some muscle. Installation does use existing holes so there is no drilling required.
As you may have surmised it mounts easily, and is essentially invisible if you’re not looking for it. It uses Bolt Locks key system, which means your ignition key will be what you use to lock and unlock your hood. Just insert your key into the lock, turn it, and the lock becomes permanently keyed to your ignition key. So best to do this part correctly with the correct key as there are no second chances.
My hood is now securely locked and I can rest a little easier. Unfortunately the claim to eliminating hood flutter didn’t apply to me. It does reduce hood flutter, but not eliminate it. Having said that, I’m certain I can MacGyver it to work better, and isn’t that the wheelers way?
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