Trunk Strut

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the trunk struts (gas springs) on a 2005 Dodge Viper, which support the trunk lid when open.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Trunk strut (gas spring) × 2 — Mopar 04863540AB or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Open the trunk lid fully and inspect the current strut condition. Note any fluid leakage or visible damage.
3. Have an assistant available to support the trunk lid weight during strut removal, or prepare a suitable prop such as a 2x4 or adjustable support rod.
4. Ensure adequate overhead clearance when the trunk is fully open.

Procedure

1. 1

   Support the trunk lid
   With the trunk fully open, have an assistant firmly grasp the trunk lid to support its weight, or position a secure prop (such as a padded 2x4) between the trunk opening and the underside of the trunk lid. Ensure the support is stable and will not slip. Have an assistant firmly grasp the trunk lid to support its weight before removing the struts. Ensure any support used is stable and will not slip.
2. 2

   Locate the strut mounting points
   Identify the upper and lower mounting points of the strut. The upper mount attaches to the underside of the trunk lid via a ball socket connection. The lower mount attaches to the body structure near the trunk hinge area, also via a ball socket. Each end has a retaining clip securing the strut socket to the ball stud.
3. 3

   Remove the upper retaining clip
   At the upper mounting point on the trunk lid, locate the metal or plastic retaining clip that secures the strut socket to the ball stud. Using a flat-head screwdriver or small pry tool, carefully pry the retaining clip away from the ball socket, working it over the edge of the socket housing. The clip may be a C-clip or U-clip design. Remove and retain the clip if it is reusable.
4. 4

   Detach the upper strut mount
   With the retaining clip removed, pull the strut socket straight off the ball stud. You may need to wiggle the strut slightly or apply moderate pulling force. The socket should slide off the ball once the clip is fully removed. Allow the strut to hang from the lower mount.
5. 5

   Remove the lower retaining clip
   At the lower mounting point on the body structure, locate and remove the retaining clip using the same technique as the upper mount. Pry the clip away from the ball socket with a flat-head screwdriver and remove it completely.
6. 6

   Detach the lower strut mount and remove the strut
   Pull the strut socket off the lower ball stud, removing the strut completely from the vehicle. Set the old strut aside. If replacing both struts, repeat steps 3 through 6 for the second strut, ensuring the trunk lid remains properly supported throughout.
7. 7

   Install the lower mount of the new strut
   Take the new strut and align the lower socket end with the ball stud on the body structure. Push the socket firmly onto the ball stud until it seats completely. The socket should snap into place with a definite click or solid seating feel. Install the retaining clip by pressing it into the groove on the socket, ensuring it fully secures the socket to the ball.
8. 8

   Install the upper mount of the new strut
   Extend the strut to align the upper socket with the ball stud on the underside of the trunk lid. Push the socket firmly onto the ball stud until fully seated. Install the upper retaining clip, ensuring it is properly positioned in the socket groove and fully secures the connection. Verify both ends are securely attached by attempting to pull the strut off the ball studs—it should not separate.
9. 9

   Install the second strut
   If replacing both struts (recommended), repeat steps 7 and 8 for the second new strut while the trunk lid is still supported. Install the lower mount first, then the upper mount, securing both with retaining clips.
10. 10

    Remove support and test operation
    With both new struts installed and secured, carefully remove the trunk lid support or have your assistant release their hold while monitoring trunk lid behavior. The trunk should remain fully open without assistance. Slowly and carefully lower the trunk lid partway, then release it—the struts should provide controlled resistance and hold the lid in position. Close the trunk completely, then open it again to verify smooth operation and adequate lifting assistance from the new struts.

Reassembly

1. This procedure installs new components directly without disassembly of other parts.
2. Ensure all retaining clips are fully seated and secure at both upper and lower mounts on each strut.
3. If you replaced only one strut, strongly consider replacing the second strut soon, as struts typically wear at similar rates and the remaining original strut may fail shortly.

Verification

• Open and close the trunk several times to verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises.
• Verify the trunk lid stays open at full height without assistance and does not slowly sag or fall.
• Check that both struts extend and compress smoothly without jerky motion or resistance.
• Inspect all mounting points to confirm retaining clips are properly installed and struts are secure on ball studs.
• Verify the trunk lid closes completely and latches properly—overly strong struts may resist closing initially but should seat within a few cycles as they break in.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle