Bill H. The reason the hinges tighten up is the rust that forms inside the joints. You need to spray them with a rust eater penetrate. Let them soak a while and then lift the hood and lower it until they free up. I am a Chevy technician and used to own a salvage yard. I had to lube My 69 Impala many times over the years since 1969. The springs are strong, but usually are replaced because of rust, and the hinges because You bent them. All hinges are the same. Check out Ebay for NOS hinges or have them rebuilt like My body shop did. NICK L72