Do I need hood pins with this hinge?

Hood pins are optional and depend on your use. Factory hinges alone are sufficient for street driving; if you're hitting the track or running competition, pins add insurance against hood flutter at speed.

Will this work if I replace only the driver side?

Yes. You can replace just the driver hinge. If the passenger hinge is worn too, the hood may sit slightly uneven until both are replaced — test-fit after installation to confirm alignment.

What's the weight difference compared to the factory hinge?

Weight is comparable to OEM. Hood operation and lift effort will feel the same as original equipment.