Boot Strut: You’re unloading a heavy toolbox and power tools from the trunk, but the lid doesn’t come crashing down onto your head as you reach in for your drill. Think about being maybe needing to get to your first-aid kit, spare tire, or jumper cables from the trunk. In this high-pressure situation, you need something you can rely on.
Thanks to boot strut, the trunk lid remains steady and supported, allowing you to move freely and efficiently. It’s like having an extra pair of hands—except it’s the quiet, reliable lift of that gas piston that lets you focus on the task at hand.
Boot Strut Solution
When using boot struts, unexpected situations can arise—whether it’s dealing with an overly heavy trunk, extreme weather conditions, or wear and tear over time. These issues can lead to trunk lids that don’t open smoothly or even malfunction. However, GASTAC provides efficient and safe solutions, ensuring their boot struts deliver reliable performance. With their high-quality design and engineering, GASTAC struts handle diverse challenges, offering stability, durability, and smooth operation in all conditions, giving you peace of mind for the long haul.
What is a boot strut?
A boot strut is a gas-powered shock absorber that helps support and control the movement of a vehicle’s trunk or boot lid. It ensures the trunk lid opens and closes smoothly and remains in place when lifted, preventing it from slamming down or falling unexpectedly. The strut uses gas pressure to provide a controlled, steady lift, making it easier and safer to access the trunk.
How do boot struts work?
Boot struts work by using gas pressure to assist in lifting and supporting the trunk lid. Inside each strut is a piston that moves within a sealed cylinder, filled with compressed gas (often nitrogen). When you open the trunk, the gas inside the strut creates pressure that helps push the trunk lid upward, lifting it smoothly. The strut’s internal valve controls the rate at which the trunk lid opens, ensuring it doesn’t slam down too quickly or fly open too fast.
Can boot struts be repaired?
Boot struts generally cannot be repaired effectively. Once the automatic boot strut inside a boot strut loses its pressure or the seals wear out, it’s difficult to restore its original performance. Repairing a boot strut is not recommended because the internal components are pressurized and may pose safety risks if tampered with. Instead, replacing the faulty strut is the most reliable solution to ensure safe and smooth operation of the trunk lid.
How long do boot struts last?
Boot struts typically last between 3 to 5 years, depending on factors like usage, climate, and the quality of the strut itself. Regular wear and tear, exposure to extreme temperatures, and the weight of the trunk lid can all affect their lifespan. If you notice that your trunk lid is no longer staying open or is harder to lift, it may be time to replace the struts boot. Proper maintenance and choosing high-quality struts can help extend their life.
Can I use a universal boot strut?
Yes, you can use a universal boot strut, but it’s important to ensure that it matches your vehicle’s specific requirements. Universal boot gas struts are designed to fit a wide range of cars, but they may not always offer the perfect fit or the same level of performance as OEM (original equipment manufacturer) struts made for your car model. Key factors to check include the length, force rating, and mounting points of the strut to make sure it can handle the weight and movement of your trunk lid properly. For optimal results, it’s often best to choose a boot lid gas strut specifically designed for your vehicle’s make and model.
What is the difference before and after installing boot struts?
Before Installation:
-The boot may be heavy or difficult to lift, requiring extra force.
-The trunk may not stay open on its own, potentially causing it to fall shut.
After Installation:
The boot becomes easier to open and close due to the assistance from the gas spring’s lift force.
The trunk will stay open on its own, making it more convenient and safer to load or unload items.
The lifting action is smoother, reducing the risk of damage to the trunk or the hinges.
Why is my boot not staying open?
Weak or Damaged Gas Struts: These struts are responsible for holding the boot open. Over time, they can lose pressure, wear out, or break, causing the boot to fall shut. Replacing the gas struts usually fixes the problem.
Faulty Boot Hinge or Gas Spring: The hinges or springs that support the boot may be damaged or loose, preventing it from staying open.
Obstructions: Something might be blocking the hinge or the gas strut, causing the boot to close unexpectedly.
Improper Alignment: If the boot or trunk is misaligned, it may not stay open properly.
What happens if I drive with a faulty boot strut?
-Block Rear Visibility
-Damage to the Boot
-Safety Hazards
-Increased Wear on Other Components
-Items in the Boot May Get Damaged
-Potential Legal Issues
-Increased Strain on Other Car Boot Struts or Hydraulic Systems
Do boot struts come with a warranty?
Yes, boot struts (often referred to as gas springs or lift supports) typically come with a warranty, though the specifics can vary depending on the manufacturer and supplier. Most reputable brands offer a warranty period ranging from 1 to 5 years, sometimes longer, depending on the quality and application of the gas strut for car boot. The warranty usually covers defects in materials and workmanship but may not cover issues arising from improper installation, misuse, or external damage.
What is the cost of replacing boot struts?
Here’s a list of ten companies that manufacture or supply boot struts, typically for automotive applications. The cost of replacing boot struts can vary based on the brand, the type of vehicle, and whether the car boot gas springs are OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket.
| Company | Estimated Cost (Replacement) |
| GASTAC | $10 – $20 per strut |
| Sachs | $50 – $120 per strut |
| Monroe | $40 – $100 per strut |
| KYB | $45 – $110 per strut |
| OESpectrum | $60 – $120 per strut |
| Tenneco | $50 – $110 per strut |
| Bilstein | $100 – $150 per strut |
| Gabriel | $30 – $90 per strut |
| Hapman | $50 – $100 per strut |
| Stabilus | $40 – $120 per strut |
Where can I buy replacement boot struts?
At GASTAC Gas Spring Manufacturer, you can purchase boot struts that are renowned for their high quality and affordable prices. GASTAC provides reliable gas springs that offer smooth operation and long-lasting durability, making them an excellent choice for automotive applications. With over 16 years of industry experience, GASTAC ensures that their products meet the highest standards, offering comparable performance to well-known brands but at more favorable prices. Whether you’re replacing a single car boot shocks or outfitting an entire vehicle, GASTAC delivers efficient and cost-effective solutions.
Website: https://www.gastac.com/
Shop: https://shop.gastac.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Gastac-Gas-Spring/video
How much do boot struts weigh?
Boot struts (trunk gas springs) typically weigh between 0.5 to 2 kilograms (1 to 4.5 pounds) each, depending on their size, pressure rating, and the vehicle’s specific requirements. Larger struts for heavy trunk lids or vehicles with specialized designs may weigh more, while smaller struts for lighter trunks will weigh less.
How to measure the size of boot struts?
Extended Length: Measure the strut when it is fully extended (straight). This is the distance from the center of one mounting hole to the center of the other mounting hole.
Compressed Length: Measure the strut when it is fully compressed (in its shortest position). Again, measure the distance between the mounting hole centers.
Stroke Length: This is the difference between the extended and compressed lengths. It represents the total travel distance the strut covers when in use.
Mounting Type and Hole Distance: Check the type of mounting (ball socket, eyelet, etc.) and the distance between the two mounting holes, as this affects compatibility with your vehicle.
How to replacement boot struts?
Open the Boot: Fully open the trunk and secure it if necessary (use a prop rod if the struts are too weak to hold the boot up).
Remove the Old Struts:
- Disconnect the Strut from the Mounting Points: Use a flathead screwdriver or a pry tool to carefully remove the retaining clips or bolts that secure the strut at both ends (top and bottom).
Remove the Gas Strut: Once the clips or bolts are removed, gently pull the strut off its mounting points. Be cautious as the strut may still be under pressure.
Install the New Boot Strut:
Position the New Strut: Align the new strut with the mounting points and press or slide it into place.
Secure with Clips or Bolts: Reattach the clips or bolts to securely hold the strut in place.
Test the New Struts: Gently lower and raise the boot to ensure the struts work properly and hold the trunk open.
What happens if I install the wrong boot strut?
Improper Functioning: The boot may not open or close correctly, either failing to stay open or slamming shut.
Excessive Wear: The wrong strut could place undue stress on the boot or surrounding components, causing premature wear or damage.
Safety Concerns: If the strut doesn’t hold the boot in place securely, it could be hazardous, especially if the boot unexpectedly closes.
Noise and Vibration: Incorrect struts may cause rattling or noise due to improper fit or tension.
Boot Strut Failure: An unsuitable strut may wear out more quickly or even fail entirely, leaving the boot unsupported.
