Ford Focus BootGas Struts, easy to replace?

Bushboy

Hi,
Spent far too long now holding the boot up/balancing on my head while we pile the shopping/pushchair/boxes etc in to the boot!

Anyone had previous experience in purchasing and replacing these? Found a website called Car Gas Stuts Uk so might order from them, around 12 quid each for my 2003 Focus, is that about right?

Cheers :beer:

anewman

£12 each seems ok. Just ensure the number before the "N" (newton) rating is equal to or slightly higher than the existing ones, especially if your tailgate has any added weight such as a spoiler. It may be worth checking ebay for some.

On the one's I've replaced there's usually a clip to remove (which can be done with a small flat screwdriver and can usually just be pushed to one side rather than have it fly off somewhere) which then lets you pull the strut off the ball joint easily. To put the new one on you can usually just push them on with the clip in place and it will lock on.

A new strut should have a little grease pre-applied inside the fixing. If it does not or you're using a used strut it may be a good idea to get some multi purpose lithium grease and put a tiny bit in.

Premier_2

Very easy to replace. Prise out the spring clips and then pull the strut from the ball joint.

Best to do one side at a time. else you'll struggle to support the weight of the tailgate.

Remember when re-assembling that the piston end of the strut should face downwards

You might want to check the retail price of the genuine parts from Ford, you might be pleasantly surprised.