Trunk Gas Struts

[jpklecker]

Has anyone replaced the gas shocks that raise and hold up the trunk - mine were originally replaced under warranty but these are now just about dead; they barely hold the trunk open. Is this an easy item to replace or is this something better left to the dealer? I have some mechanical experience - did a valve job on my 1969 Volvo P1800S and replaced it's thermostat among other minor repairs / fixes.

[MarkZ8]

I have done mine myself, and found it to be a very elementary task which need not be taken to the dealer. I had done them on my 540i as well, so I had some experience when doing the Z8. You will do fine. Enjoy. As I recall, it basically entails using a pick device to loosen a metal band type clip at each end, and then simply removing. The new ones will just "snap" on.

[jpklecker]

Thanks Mark, I will look into getting a pair for the trunk so I can change them out. Right now even a light wind causes the trunk to shut and I have to forcibly push it all the way up so it will stay open.

[thegunguy]

I replaced these guys today. Like many of you, they're kaput!

The new ones are part number 51248234351, and they seem to run $50 - $60 each. This is a simple project that just about anyone could do in under a half hour.

The removal and install are super simple.
1. Prop up you trunk with something that will relieve the load from the struts and keep the lid from falling. Don't push it too far.
2. Tape around the end of the struts loosely to protect the surrounding paint.
3. Lifting the tape, place a small screw driver in the clip slot.
4. Gently tap the screw driver with a hammer/mallet to driver the clip toward the end of the strut. You may have to do both sides of the clip. You don't have to drive the clip all the way out - just almost.
5. Pull the end off the ball joint and repeat for all four joints.

Install is even easier.
1. Snap on to body joint.
2. Push lid a little to get some slack, and snap on top joint.
3. Repeat for the other side.

Important tip:
On removal, do the top first (connects to lid). On install, snap in the bottom first (connects to body).

[jwgerritsen]

i replaced mine as well at my BMW specialist, dont remember exactly how much it was but not a lot, around 100 euro or so

[jawz]

Perfect timing! I was just about to get the struts and do the project myself. You just took the experimentation out of it for me probably saving another hour or so. Thanks.

[thegunguy]

Perfect timing! I was just about to get the struts and do the project myself. You just took the experimentation out of it for me probably saving another hour or so. Thanks.

Well, I called Matt at Peter Pan before starting mine. So, credit to him too. It's a super easy fix.

Be sure to not my important tip.

[jawz]

Rifle - Your instructions were right on. It's about a 10 to 15 minute job to replace both struts. There is a flat in the middle of each socket where if you apply even pressure, it'll push both sides of the clip out of the way. When the new ones were installed, the clips on the new struts automatically deployed correctly, locking the struts on the ball joints. Thanks again to you and Matt.

[Carter Rise]

Thanks for writing these instructions up. They were a big help and took all the guesswork out.

[BeemZ8]

Just replaced my trunk struts last night in 15 minutes using your guide. Much appreciated!

[Charles]

Worked like a charm. One of the weakest links in our cars. There are a number of manufacturers of these now, including one claiming to be o.e., but for the official bmw part, I used ecstuning.com.

[zed8]

I replaced mine twice and hood shocks once in the last 15 years. I think pressurised gas leaks in time.