Re: [DML] Door Gas Struts life Span

["Rustproof" <Rustproof@xxxx>]

I have found that the driver's side strut deteriorates in performance at
moderate temperatures (between 60F - 80F) in about six months. This has
happened twice with both stock and the aftermarket replacements. It becomes
noticeable when I use my door launchers that were originally timed to open
at the same time. Now, the driver side lags behind by quite a bit. (More
use, more wear.) Sometimes it does not open completely. The torsion bar
"hang" test shows that the bars are correctly adjusted. When the strut is
switched to the other door it shows the inconsistency is in the strut as the
problem migrates to the passenger side. I also noticed that the second set I
received from Houston was just a tad longer than the originals and bent the
mount when first installed so be careful and check for fit BEFORE you close
the door for the first time. Elvis' adjustable strut seems to be the best
solution I've heard yet. Has anyone actually tried these German made units?
Rustproof
Vin 1559

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tom Watkins" <dmctom@xxxx>
To: "DMC News Group" <dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2003 6:51 AM
Subject: [DML] Door Gas Struts life Span


> All,
>
> I suggest that if you store your car, as I do, you buy an extra set of
> gas stuts and only use them for the months when you drive. If you leave
> them on 12 months (and in the cold) they are compressed while in
> non-use and it is felt by most that it could help to shorten their
> lifespan. In the spring I re-install the "good" set and use them for
> the summer driving season. Once late fall hits and the car goes into
> the barn for the winter, the older set go on and the new set comes into
> the house to hang in a warm closet. The "old" set are not totally blown
> but just not as vibrant as the new ones. They are good enough to help
> the door go up when I need to go in the car . Since it's usually
> *really* cold here in Maine the doors sag terribly anyway so I'd rather
> save my good set of struts. With the recent reduction is strut
> prices it is more affordable to get another set as a back up
>
> Also, Does anyone have a step by step for replacing a toll booth window?
> I just bought a new glass with the plastic carrier on it and would
> like to install it.
>
> Thanks
>
> Tom
> #05732
>
>
>
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