could be easyer solution... the cable streeches.. and might be streched too far to release the hood properly..

Sounds about right, my car did it once so far (Nov MN meet) and if it doesn't go up on the 92-99 model, you just have to hit it, or pull on it. I think the catch doesn't release all the way, but the smaller one is still there. I shot some lubricant oil into mine and it'* fine in cold weather. I think the spring is just to get it up off the latch. My struts push it up just fine...

that'* what I thought at first so I moved the deal on the end and shortened it and it made it worse...then it wouldn't latch...

Maybe you need to pull it farther? Not just a loud clang, but till you see it pop up?

Or the throw isn't what it used to be...