I have two new gas springs for one of the bays. Problem is that they (as were the originals) are about an inch longer than the maximum space between the mounting knobs when the bay is fully open. Yes, the new ones are exactly the same length as the originals.
I don't have the strength to compress the struts to fit and I can't figure out how to take the mounting parts apart in a way that will be any easier to put back together with the new springs on.
Is the trick to compress the springs and hold them compressed with some type of clamp as you mount them? (Like you might do with a shock absorber.)
The bay is the one over the water pump and water distribution - last on the passanger side in front of rear axle.
Irwin Quick-Grips are your friend :-) (as is our search function and Steve's archive building). Start with the posts below:
http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=8145.msg35675#msg35675 (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=8145.msg35675#msg35675)
http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=8929.msg39450#msg39450 (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=8929.msg39450#msg39450)
Michelle
Thanks! - that was what I figured --- I think I can get my hands on a clamp that will work.
Another way to compress them is with a ratcheting nylon band clamp. Also a good way to compress gas-filled shock absorbers for installation.
And this is what I used and it worked very well. Thanks for the idea, Dave.