Hood Alignment (Yes, another one...)

[robertsjm711]

Ladies and Gentleman of the jury,

I am having an issue aligning my hood. My truck is sort of a Frankenstein, GMC fenders, Chevy cab & hood (I think), etc. It was a basket case project, so this is to be expected. Also, it is on a S10 frame, and I did all the brackets & fabrication.
At some point in its life there was a wreck in the passenger door/front fender, damaging the left cowl, which is where the hood attaches. There is no visual damage to the mounts or surrounding area, but more for full disclosure. I has been some time, they used the lead repair.

I have watched the 2x4 method, and it does get me close, but not enough.

The issue I have is that it is too far forward, ~1/4 - 1/2", and at the front and to the passenger side ~1/2". If I have all the brackets loose I can hold it in place with brute force, but it will not stay. When I latch it the left/right alignment looks OK, but it still sits forward.

What is the likelihood the hood is bent, or possibly the hinges? Just the way they are? Some other area that needs adjusted with a large hammer?