Step 1: Make sure you have all your parts before starting the process. We don't want this to end up like the Wilwoods do we? Two dampers, a bag of hardware, and some instructions. At least I haven't fucked up anything yet.
Step 2: Read the instructions thoroughly before beginning installation. You'll be aware of potential problems before you even encounter them!
Step 3: F@#k me, I can't read Japanese. Oh well, I'm sure they can't be too tough. Let's just study the picture. Damn, that dude can draw!
Step 4: Open your hood and pity your stock overworked hood prop. As you can see mine's painted the same color as the engine bay brackets because I'm a freak. Yours may look different unless you're a freak too.
Step 5: Remove the fender rail bolt right next to the shock tower. It's within an inch or two of your stock hood prop rod holder clip. Replace that bolt with a silver washer and ball-stud bolt. Contemplate painting the silver washer the same color as your car after you install it.
Step 6: Locate the correct hood ball-plate to attach to the hood hinge.
Step 7: Curse your lazy parents for never teaching you Japanese, then look at the picture again.
Step 8: Thank the artist for making it clear, then realize there was only one way for it to sit flush anyway. Better to learn from the instructions than trial-by-error, right? Remember to burn the worthless instructions since it's winter right now and your hands might be going numb.
Step 9: For each end of the hood damper, remove the retaining clip by sliding the curved part away from the damper and pulling it out of the head.
Step 10: Affix the threaded socket end of the hood damper to the hood hinge ball plate. Affix the fixed socket end to the ball-stud on the fender rail. Reinstall the retaining pins. Warm hands by burning instructions if necessary.
Step 11: Slide the curved portion of the pin back over the shaft of the damper until it snaps into a locked position.
Step 12: Double check that everything is secure and repeat for the other side.
Step 13: Marvel at your own greatness now that you have two moderately strong shocks holding up a lighter-than-stock hood. Never mind that the factory hood prop was more than sufficient for the heavier metal hood and you just installed these for no functional reason.
Step 14: Forget about functionality and the overkill you just installed. Instead, vow to finally be proud opening your hood to friends and strangers alike!
