Steve, I had to have mine clearcoated, it just makes it look that much nicer. As for the old hood, I've decided to keep mine "just in case" I get in an accident and my hood get screwed, you know these aren't going to be replacable. Now, I have to go find something made of wood to knock on...

Shawn Clone Jezabel- 1999 SE Sport V6 MTX- Severly wounded, comatose Silver frost/Black Exterior-Midnight Blue Interior The Firecracker- 1995 Mystique LS V6 MTX stock and backfiring like a rifle shot I have 3 loves, my God, Brittany, and my Car.