Trunk support conversion to gas struts

[Jimb]

Mine came original with gas struts...and on both sides.
Jim

[basarabam]

I really like this idea also. Eager to see the response on what strut to use.

[spiderrey]

interested.

[spidernut]

Why do you still have the trunk springs mounted? Are the struts insufficiently strong to hold up the trunk?

[baltobernie]

McMaster-Carr 9416K15 (20#), 9512K73 (2 ea.), 9416K74 (2 ea.)

I used two assemblies, one on each side. Old Spiders have no trunk springs, rather a folding kick stand to hold up the lid.

[adrians]

Why do you still have the trunk springs mounted? Are the struts insufficiently strong to hold up the trunk?

Just didn't bother to remove the old springs, weren't effecting anything either way.

[adrians]

Okay details of the gas struts I've had fitted.

The gas strut extended is approximately 13" long, compressed its about 8" long.
Only marking on the actual strut is " 0803 "

Photos of the setup

[v6spider]

Oh man! Nice detailed pics! This is exactly what I need.
Thank you!
Rob

[spider2081]

Just wondering if the "numbers" on the strut are actually a date code and not the struts part number. Haas anyone been able to find these struts by the # 0803?
I like the way the set up looks and would like to try it on my 81

[Ptoneill]

I could not find anything with that number on it, however using the measurements provided I went to the link posted on the first page and ordered a pair of struts and SS hardware. They had a 13 inch extended with a 7.75 inch compressed with 10mm ball sockets for 13 dollars each. I will let you know how they fit when they arrive, I will try to install them this weekend.

I will provide all the part numbers if it works out.

[Ptoneill]

Just a quick update, I got my order from the supplier, very fast shipping. The stainless hardware was top notch, however I did not get the right struts. I went with a 8.4 compressed with a 13inch extended, the compressed hight was fine, however the extended length was to short. I called the supplier and ordered up a new set, I am going with 8.25 compressed with 14 inch extended length, they should be delivered in several days.

For mounting the lower bracket I went with stainless rivets with rubber backed sealing washers, I figured they would hold longer than self tapping screws.

I will enclose pictures and part numbers when i get it done.

[Flyingthere]

Pat would you put up a list of all the parts and part numbers? If all works well I think I will do the conversion also.
Thanks,

[tartan18]

This is something I also want to do on my car. A parts list and sources for those parts would be deeply appreciated. I'd also like to add some sort of solenoid trunk release. If anyone has done this please PM me.

[aj81spider]

Or better yet, post the details so we can all see it!

Gas shocks and a solenoid release weren't on the radar as upgrades, but I'm feeling the pull of scope creep!

[Ptoneill]

I got the new longer struts in the mail today, will try the install shortly, if it works pictures and part numbers will follow this evening!!!!!!

I have researched using selinoid remote door poppers when i looked at shaving the door handles, there are definately alot of different products out there. You may want to call Jegs or Summit to get the right product.

well off to install the parts.