Tips for Finding a Replacement Hood for an International 9400 Truck

Finding Replacement International 9400 Hoods

The International 9400 is an iconic Class 8 tractor that was manufactured by International Truck and Engine Corporation between 2004 and 2008. With its distinctive sloped hood and large grille, the International 9400 became a common sight on highways across North America hauling freight from coast to coast.

For truckers who still operate the venerable International 9400 today, finding replacement parts can be challenging since the truck has been out of production for over 15 years. One of the most common parts that needs replacement on the International 9400 is the hood.

Why The Hood On An International 9400 May Need Replacement

There are several reasons why an International 9400 may need a replacement hood:

• Collision damage - A front-end collision can easily damage the sheet metal hood beyond repair.
• Corrosion - Road salt and other environmental factors can cause the hood to rust out over time.
• Mechanical damage - An engine fire or other mechanical issue can warp or otherwise damage the hood.
• General wear and tear - After hundreds of thousands of miles, normal wear and tear will take its toll on the hood's appearance.

Regardless of the reason, if the hood on your International 9400 is damaged or deteriorated beyond repair, you'll need to source a replacement hood to keep your truck in service.

Challenges of Finding International 9400 Hoods

Unfortunately, finding a replacement hood for an older truck like the International 9400 can be difficult:

• No longer in production - International stopped making the 9400 over 15 years ago, so new hoods are not being manufactured.
• Limited availability - Very few vendors keep new old stock (NOS) International 9400 hoods anymore.
• Used hood condition - Many used take-off hoods are damaged or rusted.
• Freight costs - Shipping heavy truck hoods is expensive.

While all hope is not lost, sourcing a quality replacement 9400 hood takes persistence and diligence. Here are some tips to track one down.

Tips for Finding an International 9400 Hood

Check With International Truck Dealers

Some International Truck dealers may still have a few NOS or reconditioned 9400 hoods stashed away in their warehouses from when the trucks were still in production. Contact dealers in your area or region and ask if they have any 9400 hoods in stock.

Search Truck Salvage Yards

Truck salvage yards dismantle older trucks like the 9400. Look for large salvage yards that specialize in heavy duty trucks and equipment. Be prepared to call numerous yards before you find one with a 9400 hood in decent shape.

Post a Wanted Ad

Posting a wanted ad in trucker forums and on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace is a good way to connect with other owners parting out International 9400s. Be sure to indicate condition, price, and your location to weed out irrelevant responses.

Check Online Parts Locators

Sites like NextTruck and PartRequest allow you to search inventory from multiple vendors when you input your part number. You can filter by new, used or rebuilt condition to pinpoint 9400 hood inventory.

Join an Owner's Forum

Participating in an online owner’s forum for International trucks allows you to tap into a community that may have leads on sources for 9400 hoods. You can search existing threads or post questions to connect with helpful members.

What to Look for When Buying an International 9400 Hood

Once you locate a potential replacement 9400 hood, be sure to closely inspect it before purchasing to ensure you’re getting a quality part:

• Check for collision damage like dents, cracks, or twisted mounting points.
• Look for corrosion both inside and out.
• Test the latch mechanism and hinges for smooth operation.
• Ensure inner reinforcements are intact.
• Confirm part number stampings match your truck’s VIN.

Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate the condition of a used 9400 hood before buying can save you from expensive disappointments down the road.

Partner With a Trusted Supplier

To save time and headaches sourcing parts, develop a relationship with a reputable heavy truck parts supplier with a large inventory of used International components. Work with them to conduct the search for you and inspect hoods prior to purchasing.

Restore Your International 9400 Hood

If you are able to find an International 9400 hood in fair condition at a good price, restoring the hood yourself can be a cost-effective option:

• Professionally repair any collision damage.
• Strip old paint and primer down to bare metal.
• Apply body filler to smooth any imperfections.
• Spray on etching primer, then primer-sealer.
• Block sand evenly.
• Spray quality enamel paint to match your truck.
• Install new hood insulation and louver gasket.
• Replace any damaged mounting hardware.

Taking the time to properly restore a used 9400 hood will provide you with a cost-effective repair that looks great and lasts for years to come.

Keep Your International 9400 On the Road

Despite their age, many International 9400 tractors continue putting in hard miles hauling freight across North America. With some determination and diligence, you can track down a replacement hood to keep your vintage 9400 looking and running great for years to come.

FAQs

Why is it so hard to find a replacement hood for an International 9400?

The International 9400 has been out of production for over 15 years, so new replacement hoods are no longer being manufactured. Very limited quantities of NOS hoods remain. Used hoods are hard to find and often damaged.

What are some good places to look for a used International 9400 hood?

Check with International dealers, search truck salvage yards, post wanted ads online, use parts locator services, and network on International truck owner forums.

What should I inspect on a used 9400 hood before purchasing?

Carefully inspect for collision damage, corrosion, smooth operation of latches and hinges, intact inner reinforcements, and matching part numbers.

Is it worth restoring a used 9400 hood with minor damage?

Yes, skilled repair and repainting of a lightly damaged used hood can provide a cost-effective repair that looks great.

Should I just replace my 9400 hood with an aftermarket hood?

Aftermarket hoods don't always fit properly. Finding a quality used OEM International hood is preferable for proper fit and appearance.