Uprated tailgate struts?

Matt H · Post by **Matt H** » Mon Mar 21, 2011 3:55 pm

Has anybody ever dabbled with this? I've found that the struts on the P2 valver struggle to hold the tailgate and massive (extremely heavy) spoiler.

I've noticed this before with other 16vs but it would be nice to sort it. As far as I'm aware they are the same as all other BXs... So is there an alternative?

messerschmitt owner · Post by **messerschmitt owner** » Mon Mar 21, 2011 4:58 pm

is the xm one the same or different?

Matt H · Post by **Matt H** » Fri Mar 25, 2011 1:54 pm

I haven't checked to be honest... I could measure them up if any XM owners want to compare length

Another question. Does ambient temperature affect performance, because it is rather warm today, any they seem to be performing better than they were last week??

Linegeist · Post by **Linegeist** » Fri Mar 25, 2011 2:13 pm

The short answer is "Yes!" The gas-filled capsule has a higher internal pressure when warm than when cold, so its effect is noticeably more pronounced.

Way2go · Post by **Way2go** » Fri Mar 25, 2011 3:09 pm

Matt H wrote:Does ambient temperature affect performance, because it is rather warm today, any they seem to be performing better than they were last week??

This probably means that the struts have lost pressure and need replacement. You will likely find that if you want to skimp on cost then you can replace just one side with a new one and it will work acceptably.

toddao · Post by **toddao** » Fri Mar 25, 2011 5:49 pm

The struts on my TRD struggle to cope with the add-on GT spoiler and louvres but they do hold it once it's open.

I was advised by a local eccentric mechanic that problems with struts were solved by carrying a broomstick in the back to prop it open with! His favourite tools are both canned : WD40 sprayed on everything then a lick of silver spray to make it look new. Instant 'new' exhaust for example with loads of overspray!

Wooscary · Post by **Wooscary** » Fri Mar 25, 2011 6:02 pm

toddao wrote:His favourite tools are both canned : WD40 sprayed on everything then a lick of silver spray to make it look new. Instant 'new' exhaust for example with loads of overspray!

We had a silver Mini like that once, not just silver spray though, it was Christmas spray. It stopped being quite so silver when it rained...

Oh, and I'm interested to know if there is a source for new/uprated ones as my lid is hardly supported until fully open.

Post by **Defender110** » Fri Mar 25, 2011 7:08 pm

These guys will re-gas or uprate them to your needs, + yes different strutts were fitted to different models, break, spoiler fitted etc.

http://www.bxclub.co.uk/forum/viewtopic ... te+strutts