Deck struts question for all the do-it-yousellfers?

[Dirk Pitt]

Since the topic of deck struts has come up again, I would like to ask a simple question. How do you remove and replace them? I recently received a set of LST deck struts that a friend picked up for me from Steve in Tulsa a few weeks ago. I did not receive any instructions and as I have not seen this done before, I would like to confirm my ideas as to how to do it before I tear something up. It appears on the new strut to be a small screwdriver slot that will allow the U shaped clamp to spread out when driver inserted. I would then guess that when placed over pin, you push U shaped clamp back down to hold on. Most likely reverse procedure for removal? Is this correct or is there a better way? Also, I am aware someone must hold deck lid while shock is removed and replaced.
Thanks,
Herman Holland

[Doug Allen]

A small standard screw driver and a pair of needle nose pliers - takes about ten minutes for all four. Be careful that you don't slip and scratch your paint.

[wildcat66]

I took mine off and put them back on by myself ( got tired of waiting for someone to come home ) I got in the bed and held the top up with my back while I was on all fours (ain't that a pretty picture)

you need a very thin flat blade to get under the C type clip and when you put them on it just clicks when you push it down with your finger

[Big Blue Ox]

I would leave the deck lid down in the latched position AFTER you have released the spring clamps.

1.) Remove spring clamp out of the seat.

2.) Close deck lid.

3.) Crawl into the bed via the open tailgate, remove and reinstall strut one side at a time.

4.) Open carefully to check each side that the spring install is complete.

Holding the deck lid invites shifting/chipping of the paint. I did that removing the deck lid, but strut removal will cause deck lid shifting as well.

[Mike in AZ]

Doug is referring to the older style, polished stainless, replacement struts that had a special little clip on the eyeball ends. The newer style stainless struts have an end fitting that is similar to the OEM ones. They are black nylon.

To remove, slip a small screwdriver under the clip and pry the clip away from the back fo the fitting. This will pull the lock out of the way far enough to pop the strut off the mount. Repeat on the other end. The new struts should snap in place...... without tools.

Be sure you have a second person holding the lid up......

Mike

[Dirk Pitt]

The one thing I like the most about the Fanatic forum folks is the quick response you get to all your questions. You guys are the most helpful group of folks in any forum I have been in. Thanks again for the quick and informative responses.
Herman Holland