NE1 used gas charged struts as trunk support ?

[MileHighDart]

I've been playing with the idea of using a couple gas charged struts to lift and support my trunk lid.
My original torsion bars are not doing the job anymore. They wont lift the lid, or support it once its open.

Just wondering if anyone has used gas struts, and where you might have placed them.

I have a strut that I bought for something else that I've been using to mock something up.
But so far the only position I've found where I could mount the struts kind of has the strut pointing straight down to the trunk floor and I'm worried they will be in the way when putting stuff in the trunk.
See the pics.

I'm thinking about getting an electric trunk release, and I want the struts to both, lift and support the trunk lid when I push the button.

Let me know your thoughts. I haven't drilled any holes or made any brackets yet, just trying to mock it up.

 

[pishta]

put the strut on the bottom of the U shaped trunk hinge so it mounts at the seat back and pushes the hinge 'back' and opens the trunk. The torsion bars will assist. That the best way not to damage {bow} your trunk lid.

 

[MileHighDart]

Nice drawing, and I get what your saying.
I'll have to check that out, but I think I would have to buy some longer, and very strong struts.
In your scenario your attaching to the u shaped part of the hinge about 6" from where it pivots. And trying to push the weight of a 3ft long trunk from that point.
Its kind of like looking at a crow bar, trying to lift the long end by pushing on the short end, that's going to take a lot of pressure.

 

[67dart_drop_top]

I have never tried, but isn't there a way to tighten the spring by moving one of the bars?

 

[MileHighDart]

The original torsion bars can be adjusted, but they are already on the strongest setting.

I've posted before on another site, trying to find out if anyone sells new ones. All I've gotten in people wanting to sell me a used set. I already have a used set and they aint doing it..lol

 

[DDodger]

as much trouble as i've had with gas units on camper doors, etc i'd try re-bending or finding replacement T bars