Chuck:On my VR bonnets, I make new flaps from a thin rubber disc that I re-rivet to the leaf spring. Frank makes the spring and discs for his repop bonnets.
The purpose of the flap is to open when the engine is not running to vent the fumes from inside the bonnet for easier hot starting. Don't tell the EPA. You can try plugging the hole, and if it starts OK hot, you're in business.
John