I installed an aftermarket hood/radiator support seal on my 1969 Barracuda and now the hood won't close. The seal holds the hood open about an inch. I would risk bending the hood if I forced it down. The seal seemed to fit properly being the right length and all the mounting holes lining up on the hood. It just seems there is no room for the seal. Do I need to clamp it between some boards to flatten it out or modify it somehow? Anybody else have this issue? I did not have this problem with several other A ans E bodies I have restored.

is it facing the correct way?

Yes. It only fits one way.

Sounds like they used the wrong durometer rubber. Not much you can do about that.

I installed the one from Steele Rubber Products. It is the correct stiffness, size and fits with no issues. All their products are top shelf.

http://www.steelerubber.com/hood-to-radiator-weatherstrip-70-2377-43

I had to cut off the outer six inches from each end of the seal to allow the hood to close. The rubber bumpers at the front corners have to be cranked all the way down to get the hood even with the fenders and front panel. The seal is quite a bit thicker than the bumpers so there was no way it would fit. Fortunately, the engine runs cool and I can tolerate some underhood air leakage.