Hi,
My last installation went off without a hitch,and I did NOT pull the hood. Balance the assembly carefully,support the trans,and it should plop right in! It's a close call,so watch out for the header panel and hood insulation. I personally like to leave my accessories connected,so I guess you will have some additional nose weight on the boom, but you will be able to compensate for it with the point you pick it from. Good luck with your project!