[alphrex]

Hey everyone! This is my second contribution to this forum. Please feel free to correct me if I've made any mistakes, and I apologize in advance for any issues with my grammar.



The Backstory:

Last week, I purchased the "TRAC Hood Gas Strut Kit" for my Scorpio-N and decided to go the DIY route for the installation. Overall, the process was straightforward and only required some basic hand tools. However, I did face some difficulty placing the rivet in the correct spot.
The kit included two gas struts, all necessary mounting hardware, and six standard-sized rivets. I did have to buy a rivet gun for the installation.

OUTER PACKAGING



PACKAGE CONTENT



ALL THE COMPONENT INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE



TOOLS REQUIRED



About the Product:

The product functions well as intended. It automatically raises the hood as soon as you release the safety latch, similar to how a hatchback boot operates. Since this is a model-specific product designed for the Scorpio-N, it required no modifications to the fenders or extra drilling. It looks great and efficiently supports the heavy hood in an open position.


Pros:

1. If you own a Scorpio-N, you know the hood is quite heavy. This kit makes opening it much easier.
2. Opening and closing the hood is now simple and straightforward.
3. You no longer need to struggle with the support rod.
4. Without the front support rod, working on the vehicle becomes easier and more accessible.
5. It adds a premium feel to the vehicle.




Cons:

1. Since the gas strut kit puts continuous pressure on the safety hook bracket, I’m concerned it may wear down over time.
2. It makes a loud “THUD” sound when I pull the hood release lever.
3. I now have to use some force to close the hood.
4. Is it really worth spending on something that remains out of sight?



My Take:

Ever since I bought my Scorpio-N, I’ve wanted to install gas struts because they’re common in premium vehicles—even the Scorpio Classic has them. After the installation, I think it’s a fantastic feature to have and enjoy. However, is it necessary? Probably not, as I’ve only used it two or three times since installation. While I’m happy with the product and how it functions, I don’t think everyone needs one just for the sake of a slight change in convenience.



Who Should Get It?

If you’re someone who loves adding unique features to your vehicle or finds any excuse to tinker with your car, then this product is worth checking out. Otherwise, if you’re content with your Scorpio-N as it is, you might not need it. Enjoy your vehicle, and until next time—take care!

Thanks for reading!

[maddy42]

This is well done and kudos if it is your first DIY. Where did you procure the struts from?

Maddy

[Mathan1130]

Hello there,

Great work looks neat and clean. I am looking one for Hyundai Tucson 4th Gen. Could you please share the cost and link to purchase the product.

Thank_You!

[dhanushs]

Excellent.

This is one of the most practical and functional mods one can carry out in their car. Only catch would be over a period of time these struts will demand replacement, so dont remove the bonnet prop. Also watch the height when opening the bonnet in a low roof area/tight spaces.

[GeeTee TSI]

I admire bonnet struts in general and this is such a neat job.

Just curious, does retrofitting a gas strut in a bonnet which was never designed for one change the bonnet open angle?

[alphrex]

First of all, thank you very much for all your input! I’ll do my best to answer the questions you guys have raised so far.

1) I came upon this product while scrolling through YouTube, where I came across a video of someone demonstrating how to install gas struts in a Scorpio-N. This was the first time I learned that such an upgrade was available for the Scorpio-N. I then started looking for the product, and eventually, I found a link to it on Amazon.in. I’m sharing a screenshot and the Amazon link here for your convenience.




https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0D9HM5F4D?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

*Disclaimer:* The link isn’t an affiliate link; it’s just to help out fellow enthusiasts.

2) After installing the struts, I tested their functionality by opening and closing the hood multiple times. The struts don’t touch the fender or any other part of the vehicle, and the hood’s opening angle remains unchanged. You can still use the bonnet prop in the open position, which means that the opening angle is unaffected.

3) I’ve added the Amazon page link here. Currently, the product is only available for a few models, mainly Mahindra SUVs. You could inquire with the company to check if they make one compatible with other models—they should be able to let you know.