Need an opinion regarding new hood
 

The hood was damaged in an accident recently and Im currently replacing it. You cant get a original mach hood from Ford anymore so was going to go with a carbon fiber replacement piece.

But recently the chance to get a OEM new old stock hood came up on here. But for what the owner is asking + the shipping, I could get the carbon fiber hood. Im torn.

Just want opinions. What would you guys do in the case? Go for the chance at a original unpainted OEM hood or for the same $$$ get the aftermarket "upgrade" lighter carbon hood?

And remeber unless you find a undamaged used hood, the carbon fiber hood is the only way you can get a 03/04 mach 1 hood.

Re: Need an opinion regarding new hood
 

Depends on how well the aftermarket piece fits and how much weight savings. Without real world feedback of the carbon fiber from other people, id lean towards the oem.

Re: Need an opinion regarding new hood
 

Not many but few have done the CF hood here in the past, from searches and reading their old threads there was no complaints about fitment or quality that Im aware of. Of course I dont know the long term, but I know Ill eventually want and need to paint the CF piece because it yellows with age.

Since Im reparing the car and costing serious $$$ I figured I might as well not put it back stock and use the oportunity to do some "upgrades". The OEM hood being discontinued left me no choice, but then a original piece popped up here and Im second guessing.

Edit: I read the CF part is possibly some 15 to 20lbs lighter than stock. Something that the OE hood weighed 40-45 lbs.

Re: Need an opinion regarding new hood
 

Try to contact a member that has one and get their input. If there's any downsides to fitment or anything at all, id get the oem piece. that's my .02

Re: Need an opinion regarding new hood
 

I would always go oem if given the choice. I would worry about fit and finish on the aftermarket hood.