Redline Tuning QuickLIFT

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Summary

Mount Hood Brackets

LH Hood Bracket Installation

Attach LH hood bracket to upper bolt, aiming inward. Tighten parallel to hinge.

RH Hood Bracket Installation

Repeat for the passenger side (RH hood bracket).

Install Lower Brackets

LH Fender Bracket Installation

Attach LH fender bracket to fender tab, ensuring it rests tightly against the lip.

RH Fender Bracket Installation

Attach RH fender bracket to fender tab, ensuring it rests tightly against the lip.

Install Gas Springs

Gas Spring Attachment

Attach gas springs to hinge ball-stud (TOP) and fender ball-stud.

The Redline Tuning QuickLIFT system is an aftermarket accessory designed to enhance the functionality and convenience of the 2022+ Ford Maverick's hood. This installation guide outlines the process of integrating the QuickLIFT system, which primarily consists of gas springs and custom-designed brackets, to provide an automatic and assisted hood opening experience. The system eliminates the need for a manual prop rod, offering a more modern and user-friendly solution for accessing the engine bay.

Function Description:

The core function of the QuickLIFT system is to provide hydraulic assistance for lifting and holding the hood open. This is achieved through the use of two gas springs, one for each side of the hood, which are specifically engineered to match the weight and kinematics of the Ford Maverick's hood. When the hood latch is released, the gas springs gently lift the hood to its fully open position, where they then hold it securely in place. This eliminates the manual effort typically required to lift the hood and the inconvenience of fumbling with a prop rod. The system ensures a smooth, controlled ascent and descent of the hood, preventing sudden drops or uncontrolled movements that could potentially cause damage or injury. The brackets, meticulously designed for the Maverick, serve as the crucial attachment points for the gas springs, ensuring proper alignment and secure mounting to both the hood and the fender. These brackets are tailored to integrate seamlessly with the vehicle's existing structure, utilizing pre-existing bolt locations where possible, to maintain the vehicle's integrity and simplify installation. The overall design aims to improve the user experience by making routine checks, maintenance, or modifications under the hood more accessible and less cumbersome.

Usage Features:

The QuickLIFT system offers several practical usage features that enhance the overall convenience of operating the Ford Maverick's hood.

Effortless Hood Opening: The primary benefit is the automatic and assisted opening of the hood. Once the hood latch is released, the gas springs take over, smoothly lifting the hood without manual intervention. This is particularly useful when hands are full or when working in tight spaces where manipulating a prop rod would be awkward.
Secure Hood Retention: The gas springs are designed to hold the hood firmly in the fully open position, providing a stable and safe working environment under the hood. This eliminates the risk of the hood accidentally closing due to wind or accidental bumps, which can be a concern with traditional prop rods.
Elimination of Prop Rod: The system completely replaces the factory prop rod, freeing up space and removing a potential obstruction in the engine bay. This contributes to a cleaner aesthetic and a more streamlined user experience.
Integrated Design: The custom-fit brackets ensure that the system integrates cleanly with the vehicle's existing components. The hood brackets attach to the upper hood hinge, while the fender brackets mount to specific tabs under the fender lip, utilizing existing bolt points where feasible. This thoughtful design minimizes modifications to the vehicle and maintains its original appearance.
Driver and Passenger Side Installation: The system includes components for both the driver's (LH) and passenger's (RH) sides of the vehicle, ensuring balanced support and operation of the hood. Each bracket is specifically labeled for its intended side (LH Hood, RH Hood, LH Fender, RH Fender) to facilitate correct installation.
Robust Components: The system utilizes durable gas springs and robust metal brackets, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and various environmental conditions. The components are engineered for longevity, providing reliable performance over time.
Improved Aesthetics: Beyond functionality, the QuickLIFT system contributes to a more premium feel for the vehicle. The absence of a visible prop rod and the smooth operation of the hood enhance the overall impression of quality and modernity.
Accessibility for Maintenance: By providing a wide and stable opening, the system improves access to the engine bay for routine fluid checks, maintenance tasks, or any necessary repairs. This makes working on the vehicle more comfortable and efficient.

Maintenance Features:

While the QuickLIFT system itself is designed for durability and minimal maintenance, there are a few considerations to ensure its long-term performance.

Proper Installation for Longevity: The installation guide emphasizes careful handling during the mounting of the gas springs. Specifically, it advises against forcing the gas spring sockets onto the ball-studs. Instead, users are instructed to "carefully rock the gas spring socket over the ball-stud with light pressure from the back side." This technique allows the internal c-clip to spread and properly engage the ball-stud. Forcing the connection can bend the c-clip, leading to premature failure and requiring a replacement end-fitting (PN: 72-00002). Adhering to these installation instructions is crucial for the longevity and proper functioning of the gas springs.
Component Verification: Before installation, users are instructed to "Unpack QuickLIFT System and verify contents." This step ensures that all necessary components are present and accounted for, preventing delays or issues during the installation process. This proactive check is a form of preventative maintenance for the installation itself.
Secure Fastening: Throughout the installation, emphasis is placed on securely tightening all nuts and bolts. For example, when mounting the hood brackets, users are instructed to "Tighten down with same 13mm socket keeping bracket parallel to hinge." Similarly, for the fender brackets, "13mm socket wrenches on upper lower needed to tighten assembly." Proper tightening prevents loosening over time due to vibrations and ensures the stability and safety of the mounted components.
Bracket Alignment: The guide highlights the importance of correct bracket alignment. For the LH fender bracket, it states, "Be sure bracket rotates counter clockwise and rests tightly up against lip (lower-side). Bracket will sit parallel to fender." A similar instruction is given for the RH fender bracket, ensuring proper positioning and load distribution, which contributes to the system's durability.
No Routine Lubrication Required: Typically, modern gas springs are sealed units and do not require routine lubrication. Attempting to lubricate the gas spring shaft can attract dirt and debris, potentially damaging the seals and shortening the lifespan of the unit.
Visual Inspection: Periodically, users can perform a visual inspection of the gas springs and brackets. Check for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage to the components. Ensure that all fasteners remain tight and that the gas springs operate smoothly without excessive resistance or unusual noises.
Replacement of Worn Components: If a gas spring begins to lose its lifting power or shows signs of leakage, it should be replaced. Similarly, if any brackets become bent or damaged, they should be replaced to maintain the system's integrity and safety. The guide provides part numbers for the gas springs (QL-133-33A) and individual brackets, facilitating easy identification for replacement.
Washer Bottle Re-retention (RH Side): For the passenger side installation, the guide details the removal and re-retention of the washer bottle. After installing the RH fender bracket, the washer bottle is "retained as it was before with mounting bracket on top," ensuring that this essential vehicle component remains securely in place and functional. This attention to detail in the installation process helps maintain the vehicle's original functionality alongside the QuickLIFT system.

In summary, the Redline Tuning QuickLIFT system offers a significant upgrade to the Ford Maverick's hood functionality, providing an automatic, safe, and aesthetically pleasing solution for hood access. Its design focuses on ease of use, secure operation, and integration with the vehicle's existing structure, making it a valuable addition for any Maverick owner.