LS - 3rd Gen (2001-2006) Discussion topics related to the flagship Lexus LS430

2004 Lexus LS430 Hood Struts

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Old 12-24-14 | 10:27 AM
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Default 2004 Lexus LS430 Hood Struts

My mechanic told me that I need to replace the struts to my hood because when push 3/4 way up , the hood drops down slowly. However, when I push the hood all the way up, it remains there all the time. I know it is not expensive to replace the struts but I just wish to confirm with other owners whether this is the way the structs are designed. I opened the hood a few times a year only and do not therefore believe they have come to the end of their serviceable life. Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.
Old 12-24-14 | 11:07 AM
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My friend, I think you're fine if they stay up when all the way up. If you don't bother with the engine compartment too much I wouldn't worry about it right now. However, when you do decide to swap them out you ought to consider these struts:

Amazon.com: Qty (2) LEXUS LS430 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Hood Lift Supports, Struts. Strong Arm 6236: Automotive Amazon.com: Qty (2) LEXUS LS430 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Hood Lift Supports, Struts. Strong Arm 6236: Automotive
Old 12-24-14 | 11:07 AM
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Pretty inexpensive fix, but mine is doing the exact same thing. leave it 3/4 up and itll slowly start falling down. But once its fully extended, it stays up in the air.
Old 12-24-14 | 12:20 PM
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time to change it,you dont want to be outside with your head under there and a gust of wind comes along and removes it,
Old 12-24-14 | 04:27 PM
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just get the ones on amazon. it's like 30 bucks and the dealer wants 300
Old 12-24-14 | 09:40 PM
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Get the strong arm set on Amazon. They work great and it's a 15 min job to replace them. Weak hood struts are dangerous - that hood can drop down hard enough to cause very serious injury....not worth loosing a hand or your head to save $40.
Old 12-25-14 | 04:31 PM
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I was checkin my PWR STRING fluid today, nose pointed down a hill and wind blew er down on my forehead. Never happened before but crap it hurt. Perfect timing on this thread 112k miles on an 04. Thanks.
Old 12-26-14 | 04:48 AM
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Thanks for all the advice and comments. Decided to buy a new pair of struts from ebay which is a few dollars less expensive for the same thing, inclusive of postage, Link is below;

http://www.ebay.com/itm/370924078379
Old 12-26-14 | 05:53 AM
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Thanks for the link, oh my aching forehead this am.
Old 12-26-14 | 08:28 AM
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I bought the same Strong Arm ones from eBay a few weeks ago. They work great and have a lifetime warranty.
Old 12-26-14 | 12:25 PM
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Originally Posted by warminwisc
Thanks for the link, oh my aching forehead this am.
Warm, Last year, you had an aching back from all the snow ... this year, El Niño winter winds blow your hood into your forehead. What next??

Go Packers!
Old 12-26-14 | 05:09 PM
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This year no snow, had to hit the zoloft, skis waxed, season pass bought, but bare spots abound. The struts are ordered, head still hurts. Lil bit of ol holiday cheer lightens up my head. But ya 32 bucks to my door should of done this earlier.

You coming to the game?
Old 12-27-14 | 09:12 AM
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Originally Posted by warminwisc
This year no snow, had to hit the zoloft, skis waxed, season pass bought, but bare spots abound. The struts are ordered, head still hurts. Lil bit of ol holiday cheer lightens up my head. But ya 32 bucks to my door should of done this earlier.

You coming to the game?
No, I'll be watching from home ... Big day for A. Rodgers. How's your forehead?
Old 12-27-14 | 07:06 PM
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I ordered a pair of strong arm trunk struts last week. Replaced the OEM trunk struts today. 15 minute job. Works better. Holds up trunk in any position now. Old struts only held trunk open in full open position.
Old 12-28-14 | 07:53 AM
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Here's a short instructional video I found on Youtube for Strong Arm Hood Strut installation...



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