Get a spanner through the gap, and loosen, or undo the bolts that hold the pin plate to the bonnet...
Always remove the pin plate while gapping up the bonnet! Set the gaps by adjusting the hinges, and setting the length of the rubber screw adjusters, setting the wing gaps should be done by standing at the side of the car, with the bonnet open, and pushing it across, one way, or the other... Once you're happy with the gaps, refit the pin plate, and adjust so that the pin drops directly through the middle of the bonnet lock itself, but do not shut the bonnet, until you have achieved this, remember that the pin is not meant to adjust the bonnet! its just there to hold it closed!
The bonnet should have a certain amount of "free play" when shut. about 4 or 5mm is perfect, to check for this, shut the bonnet, and press down with your palms on the leading edge on the panel, you should be able to "feel" the pin traveling through the lock, and tension being taken up by the spring... If this is not happening, you need to loosen the lock nut on the pin, and unscrew a few turns with a flat blade screwdriver, and nip the locknut up again after to try... If on the other hand, you have to slam the bonnet to get it to shut, this will also point to the pin needing to be extended, and vice versa, if the bonnet is sitting too high after the pin plate has been reinstalled, then it will need shortening to fit
Bonnet lock, and the pin should be kept clean, and generously coated with decent grease, WD40 should only be used to "Free off" a seized lock, then reapplied with grease...
ALWAYS make sure that the safety catch is working correctly, is free, and well greased! bonnets tend to fly up and wrap themselves over the windscreens when people have been messing with the bonnet locks and left them poorly adjusted!
Mk2 bonnets, should be able to be dropped shut, from a height of 10 inches, and they close perfectly, every time! Never slam one shut, this will eventually dent the front edge.
Only ever re fit the grill, once you are entirely happy that the bonnet operates, and fits correctly
Thom
