How to fit VS Boot strut

[Robo70]

I need to replace the gas struts that support the boot. How do I go about removing and installing the struts?

[08sky_way]

Prise off the clip with a screwdriver and pull the strut off the nipple. Compressing the new strut during installation is something I found difficult. When I replaced them, the only way I could get them on was to lay on my back in the boot then by pushing up the lid with my feet to open it as far as I could, and with all the pressure I could manage to compress the strut, I was only just able to get the end of the strut over the nipple. You need someone around in case the boot closes on you, or leave the hatch down on the back seat, IF you can fit through. I was absolutely knackered when I finished. The amount of force you need to compress a new strut is incredible.

[BlackVXGTS]

If you remove the rubber bump stops on the boot hinges first you will have enough room to fit the struts without needing to compress them. As the previous post says, have someone support the boot lid while you are lying on your back in the boot.

[Robo70]

Thanks fellas. I got some struts of ebay. Was not to hard to install. But the boot fell on my leg once I removed one of the old struts. Needed to be careful. If you remove the bump stops which slide out towards the rear of the car the struts are easy to install