How to Clean and Lubricate Trunk, Hood, or Hatch Struts

How to clean and lubricate trunk, hatch, or hood struts. These struts can wear out over time and will eventually require a replacement. Replacements are required when the struts are no longer able to hold up the truck, hatch, or hood. Replacements are usually cheap. But you can prolong their life with a small amount of maintenance and even smoothen their operation. When my hatch is open for extended periods of time, the seals will squeak. There maybe dust in the seals or they’re a bit dry. #volvo #autocare #deoxit
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DeoxIT X10S Precision Lubricant caig.com/produ...
Caig Laboratories Val-U series DDW-V611: caig.com/produ...
DeoxIT L260D grease caig.com/produ...
Tools/Supplies Needed:
-bucket of water
-clean rag
-degreaser
-light weight rubber safe oil
-grease
-standard screwdriver
Procedure:
Using a damp cloth, give the struts a wipe removing any dust or dirt. These struts are a closed unit so nothing can be done about the pressure inside, only the seals can be lubricated.
You can skip this step, but while we’re here I think it’s just a bit of extra maintenance.
Using a standard screwdriver, you can pop the clip down on the strut.
Then remove the strut from the ball pivot.
With only one strut connected, the hatch will most likely come down. I’m using my head to hold it up, you may need something to prop the hatch or have an extra helping hand. Then pop the strut off the pivot point on the hatch.
There will most likely be old lubricant and dirt inside this ball pivot like I have here. Use a degrease to remove this from the strut side. Here I’m using a cleaner from Caig Laboratories Val-U series which can be used on electronic and mechanical components, the model number is DDW-V611. This product evaporates fast and will help clean the surface of any grease, oil, and dirt.
Then finish up with a cloth, cleaning the inside of the pivot hole.
Once clean, here you’re able to see the inside. I have slid the clip back into place and as you can see all the old grease and dirt has been removed.
Going back to the car, clean the pivot points using a rag. A degrease can also be used here if you wish for any tough build-up.
Using DeoxIT’s L260D grease, this is great for mechanical applications as it’s infused with their D100L which helps dissolve and prevent corrosion on metal or alloy surfaces while providing a strong bond. It is resistant against heat, wear, water, and oxidation.
Snap the strut back into place.
Now do the same for the opposite side. First applying the grease.
Then snap the shock back into the place.
For the shaft of the strut, while the inside of the shock won’t be affected, this will at least help the seals out by reducing wear and improve operation. This will certainly quiet down those squeaking struts too. Using DeoxIT’s X10S Precision Lubricant which can be used on metals, rubbers, and plastics. This is a fine instrument oil, which doesn’t gum up, has rust inhibiting qualities, has a long life and the needle makes for easy applications. Apply a couple of drops, this may require a couple of applications after operating the strut. Use your finger to help smear it over the surface for even distribution.
And then wipe off any access lubricant if it’s on the rubber boot.
Now do the same for the opposite side. First retracting the clips on the pivot points.
Remove the strut.
Clean the inside of the strut pivot points and the ball pivots on the vehicle.
Apply DeoxIT’s L260D grease to the pivot points on the vehicle.
Reinstall the strut, ensuring those clips are locked into place.
Clean the shaft of the strut, removing on dirt.
And apply DeoxIT’s X10S Precision Lubricant to the strut shafts, spread it around with your finger. Operate the hatch and apply more if needed. Clean away any access lubricant and you’re officially done. You should notice a smooth operation with the function of the struts and any squeaks which were present will be gone.
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