Peterbilt 379 Hood Conversion: Short Hood to Long Hood and Single to Dual Breathers

[MikePhua]

The Peterbilt 379 is a well-known, iconic heavy-duty truck that has been a staple of the trucking industry for decades. Known for its rugged durability and classic style, the 379 has become synonymous with high-performance, luxury, and distinctive design. Many truck owners modify and customize their 379s to suit personal preferences or to enhance their vehicle's aesthetics and functionality. One of the more popular upgrades involves changing the truck’s short hood to a long hood and upgrading from a single to dual air breathers.
In this article, we will explore the process, challenges, and considerations involved in converting a Peterbilt 379 from a short hood to a long hood and upgrading the air breathers from a single to dual configuration.
Understanding the Peterbilt 379 Hood Types
The Peterbilt 379 truck is available in two primary hood configurations: the short hood and the long hood. These hoods serve different aesthetic and functional purposes.

1. Short Hood:
   • The short hood configuration is typically found on trucks that prioritize maneuverability over engine accessibility. It provides a more compact design, making it easier to navigate tight spaces and tight turns. While this is a great option for urban environments or jobs that require high maneuverability, it comes with certain limitations, such as reduced engine access for maintenance and repairs.
     
2. Long Hood:
   • The long hood offers a more classic look, often favored by drivers who prioritize aesthetics and engine accessibility. This configuration provides extra space for larger or more powerful engines and offers easier access for maintenance tasks. The long hood is often seen on trucks used for long-haul transportation or jobs that require heavy-duty performance and high horsepower.
     

Reasons for Converting from Short Hood to Long Hood
There are several reasons why an owner might choose to convert their Peterbilt 379 from a short hood to a long hood. Some of the primary reasons include:

1. Improved Engine Access:
   • One of the biggest advantages of the long hood is the increased engine compartment space, which makes maintenance and repairs much easier. Whether it's for routine maintenance or a major engine repair, the long hood configuration provides ample space to access components like the engine, radiator, and other mechanical parts.
     
2. Aesthetic Appeal:
   • The long hood configuration is often seen as more visually appealing, with its classic, longer design evoking a sense of power and prestige. For many truck enthusiasts, the long hood gives the Peterbilt 379 a timeless, aggressive look that aligns with the truck's image of strength and luxury.
     
3. Better Weight Distribution:
   • The longer hood can also contribute to improved weight distribution, particularly when the truck is hauling heavy loads. The extended hood may help with balancing the truck, improving the overall handling and stability when on the road.
     
4. Increased Engine Options:
   • The long hood provides the space needed to accommodate more powerful engines or to retrofit newer engine models. This is an appealing option for truck owners looking to upgrade their truck's performance, whether for more horsepower or better fuel efficiency.
     

Converting from Short Hood to Long Hood: The Process
The process of converting a short hood to a long hood on a Peterbilt 379 involves several key steps and considerations:

1. Obtaining the Right Parts:
   • The first step is sourcing a compatible long hood for the Peterbilt 379. This may involve purchasing a new hood from a Peterbilt dealer or finding a used one in good condition. It's essential to ensure that the hood fits the truck model and that all necessary hardware is included for the conversion.
     
2. Upgrading the Mounting System:
   • The mounting brackets and hood support systems on a short hood Peterbilt may need to be modified or replaced to accommodate the long hood. This step can include changing the hinges, latches, and other components that secure the hood in place.
     
3. Relocation of Radiators and Air Intakes:
   • When converting to a long hood, the radiator and air intake systems may need to be repositioned or upgraded. The extra space allows for larger radiators or intercoolers, which may require changes to the truck’s cooling system.
     
4. Electrical and Wiring Adjustments:
   • Wiring and electrical connections need to be adjusted or extended to accommodate the longer hood. This includes connections for the headlights, cooling fans, and other electrical components.
     
5. Alignment and Finishing:
   • Once the new hood is installed, alignment and finishing adjustments are necessary to ensure that the hood closes properly and the gaps are even. This step also involves securing any loose components and checking for overall fitment.
     

Single to Dual Breathers Upgrade
Another common modification for the Peterbilt 379 is upgrading from a single air breather (or air intake) to dual air breathers. This change is often part of a broader customization effort, aimed at enhancing both the look and performance of the truck.

1. Aesthetic and Functional Benefits:
   • The dual breather configuration is often seen as more aesthetically appealing, giving the truck a more aggressive and balanced appearance. Additionally, the dual air breathers provide a more efficient airflow to the engine, improving engine performance and fuel efficiency.
     
2. Improved Engine Efficiency:
   • Dual air breathers can enhance the intake of clean, cool air to the engine, which can contribute to better combustion efficiency and reduced engine wear. This may lead to improved power output and longevity of the engine.
     
3. Customization and Personalization:
   • Upgrading to dual air breathers also allows for further customization of the truck. The appearance of the dual breathers can be tailored to match the truck’s overall design and style, adding to its uniqueness.
     

Considerations and Challenges in Upgrading
While the conversion from short hood to long hood and the installation of dual air breathers offer significant benefits, there are a few challenges to keep in mind:

1. Cost:
   • Both the conversion of the hood and the addition of dual breathers can be costly. Truck owners must factor in the cost of parts, labor, and any additional modifications required. This can be an expensive upgrade, especially if the work requires custom fabrication or specialty parts.
     
2. Time and Labor:
   • The process of converting to a long hood and upgrading to dual air breathers is time-consuming and labor-intensive. It is crucial to plan for potential downtime during the modification process. Depending on the complexity, the work could take several days or even weeks to complete.
     
3. Impact on Insurance:
   • Major modifications to a truck, such as changing the hood or altering the air intake system, may impact its insurance policy. Truck owners should check with their insurance provider to ensure that any changes are covered under their policy.
     
4. Regulatory Considerations:
   • Before making any modifications, it is essential to check local regulations, particularly regarding emissions and safety. For example, changing the hood configuration or air intake system may require inspection or approval in certain areas.
     

Conclusion
Upgrading a Peterbilt 379 from a short hood to a long hood and adding dual air breathers is a popular modification among truck owners looking to improve both the performance and aesthetics of their truck. This modification provides better engine access, improved weight distribution, and enhanced airflow for the engine. Additionally, the long hood gives the truck a timeless, classic appearance that many drivers prefer.
However, these upgrades come with costs and challenges. Truck owners need to carefully plan and budget for the modifications, ensuring that all components are compatible and that the work is performed by qualified professionals. When done correctly, these upgrades can significantly enhance the performance, appearance, and value of a Peterbilt 379.