The hood on my car would sometimes not stay in the open position but would
lower by itself. This becomes more pronounced when it's wet outside of
after a wash; I guess the hood struts don't like moisture. :) Is there
any kind of maintenance that could be done so that they would work
better, or are the struts as good as disposable? At this point I don't feel
like the inconvenience warrants me shelling out $75 or so for a new
pair (the price is from fcpgroton). They seem to hold better
in dry weather, and the latches on them seem to work ok. The car is
a 1998 V90 wagon.
Thanks,
Vlad
--
'98 965

You have a few choices -

1) Raise the hood to the max (vewrtical) position using the little red rockers.

2) Hold the hood up with a substitute, such as your head (BTDT) or a stick.

3) Install new supports.


The gas-filled struts eventually go flat. Most pronounced in cold weather. Right now the ones on my 1997 965 are about 2/3 dead. If the ambient temp is 60F or more, when I raise the hood and push it a little past it's usual position it will stay up for a good while. And I wear a hat, just in case.


I have priced supports from Borton Volvo - $57 each.

Local dealer after my discount - $99.99 each

Your info from FCP Groton at $75 each (are they Volvo parts).

There is no maintenance/repair, etc.

Never have I tried replacing just one side.

I don't know if the same supports are used on any other Volvo. If so, you might find a newer set in a junk yard.


Good Luck,

Bob

:>)

Thank you Bob for your reply,

I tried option 2 already (holding it with my head:) so I guess I should get
ready for option 3... The supports at fcpgroton.com are listed at $37.91 each
and they claim they are OEM. They currently offer 10% off their prices (check out http://forums.motivemag.com/zerothread?id=4149831) and free shipping over
$150. Seems like a good deal, though I know that I will be dropping a lot of
cash with them this season on other stuff already.

Vlad
--
'98 965