I want to replace the hood springs on my 69 Camaro. Any tips, tricks or anything to make the job go easier?

 

To get the old spring off, close the hood most of the way, but to where you can still access the spring. Then stick little wood shims between the coils on opposite sides of each other. Open the hood and the spring should come out easily since it can't compress nearly as much. Install the new spring on the rear hook on the hinge (end towards the cowl), and double over a length of strong twine and hook it on the forward end of the spring. Then stand in front of the car with the twine wrapped around your hand and give it a good pull while a helper guides the spring onto the hook of the hinge. Be careful, the spring can bite! Also, lay a work blanket over the fender so the paint doesn't get scratched should the spring get away from you.

 

Thanks for the tips. I would not have thought of the wood shims. Seems like it's not too hard of a job.