Rugged Ridge Hood Lock Kit, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (TJ) - Manual

(Part Number – 11252.03)
Early 1997 TJ – Wrangler Hood Lock
Installation & Adjustment Instructions
Step (1)
Open hood of vehicle and prop securely. Before proceeding make sure the factory hood latch is adjusted
and working properly.
Step (2)
Unscrew and discard both front screws that hold the existing latch in place. Please note, there is no need to
remove or loosen the remaining screws that are located closest to the radiator. On some models a flexible
weatherstrip may hinder access to the front screws. It may be necessary to pull back this flap to remove
these screws. It is important that you do not cut or damage this weatherstrip.
Step (3)
With the keys and mounting screws removed from the lock fit it carefully through and upwards in the front
of the grille. Make sure the locking bar fits over the OE latching lever as seen in (Fig.1). Take care that no
wires form the lighting wire harness is in contact with the locking or latching assemble.
Fig.1
Step (4)
On some model vehicles it will be necessary to unbolt the air conditioning condenser and radiator to gain
some additional working room.
Step (5)
Using the supplied hardware install the lock through the existing holes. The lock will slide to line up with
the mounting holes and will allow for some adjustment. As seen in (Fig.1) the lock can be adjusted to
cradle the OE latching lever. When properly installed and aligned tighten the screws and check the locks
operation.
Step (6)
The OE latching levers vertical travel is set at the factory but can be adjusted. Loosen the pivot nut on the
back of the assembly and move the pivot bolt up and down and then retighten.
User Guide.
Turn key to the unlocked position. Close hood and turn key to the locked position, the hood is now locked
(remove key). To open turn key to the right (clockwise) and unlatch hood in the normal manner.
Warnings
NEVER drive your vehicle without properly securing all latches. This lock is not a replacement of any factory installed
equipment and must be used in conjunction to avoid any damage to your persons or vehicle. NO lock has a 100%
effective guarantee, use common sense when using and always park in well lit areas.
Maintenance.
Frequent lubrication of the lock face and internal components are required. A small amount of bearing grease or
Vaseline should be smeared over the face of the lock to help maintain proper function over time. Monthly checks need
to be made to insure a long operating life.