I bolted a factory dual snorkel scoop onto my hood with no problems. No cushion of any kind. Scoop never cracked or anything. And I ABUSED (4 wheels off of the ground) that car a few times. I opened the hood under the scoop, but left all of the factory hood bracing in place. It's been on there over 30 years now without a complaint, but it's been parked most of that time.