Ok, so went on some runs today (will post about that in a bit... trying something). Came back opened the hood and did some poking around. When I closed it I noticed one side didn't latch, specifically the driver side. Did some searching on the site and didn't find anything (hate the new search.. was supposed to be good. Will need to fix that soon). Also searched the interwebs and found a bunch of Gen 1 hood stuff and a bunch of info regarding ones where the cable breaks and/or replacement. Anybody have any ideas why one side would catch and the other would not? My next step is to clean the mechanism and lube it. Before I did that, wanted to see if anyone has seen this before. Will post some pics in a bit (have to go get them after dinner).
Other then lubing it up. Check that the release in the drivers compartment returned all the way back.
I just had this problem with my wife R61. The drivers side latch was all gummed up to the point that the spring could not move the latching component. I sprayed it down with a lubricant and used a screwdriver to work the mechanism until it was moving freely.
Lube Lube Lube your latches. We have noticed that these things start to hang up as they age. We get a lot of corrosion up here and end up replacing a lot of hood latches. Start with the lube.
So, did some more work on this and it appears my hood isn't closing far enough or I need to adjust where the catch is. I made a quick video of it. Initially I was thinking I would adjust the rubber stop. However when I push it down further it hits the wheel arch.. actually it looks like it's already hitting the wheel arch. Now I'm researching if there is a way to adjust the catch.
Ok - so I was able to fix it. Essentially a little cleaning, WD40 and slight adjustment of the rubber stopper and all fixed.
For a longer lasting solution, I'd recommend white lithium or silicon spray lube. WD40 will eventually leave a shellac like residue.
Good point - was planning on that. I use it on the RZR's all the time. Last way better especially when in water etc. Waiting to have a buddy of mine who owns a bike shop come and lube the cable.