How to install trunk struts on a 2015 INFINITI Q50S

Similar to the hood struts, the trunk struts can fail over time. If you're not careful, the trunk can come crashing down on you while grabbing the groceries. A small amount of innovation was needed to install the replacement parts. A small ratchet strap came in handy here.
Install the strut on the quarter panel first, wrap the ratchet strap around the strut, slowly crank down so that the strut aligns with the trunk side mount. Snap into place and carefully release the pressure on the ratchet strap. All done !
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#gavdetails#trunkstruts#howto#DIY

[@chrismcdaniel6405]

If you remove the black plastic spacers from the back of the trunk hinges you can push the trunk open enough to line up the strut connections without compressing the strut.

[@-.-Elle-Marie-.-]

Experienced the same just now changing the struts on my 17 q50. Thank you for saving us a lot of time and stress, with straps we were able to install in less than 10 min. Thank you!!

[@GavDetails]

Glad it worked out. Another viewer posted about removing the black tabs allowing the trunk to extend further for a safer install. Thanks for checking out the video.

[@marciapryluck1220]

Just changed the trunk lift cylinders on my wife's q60s. Removing the lock clips were much harder than shown in the posting. The first one took about 1/2 hour till I learned the trick using a knife and a very small screwdriver. The others took 5 minutes each. Hardest part was FINDING the cylinders. They have been discontinued by almost every manufacturer! Finally found a set with a google search; not Amazon. Next week I'll tackle my q50s. Yes, we have two Infinities.

[@kongo6042]

Nice 👍🏾

[@sbeeny50]

I was able to attach the top ball, and then use a big flathead screwdriver under the bottom one to apply enough leverage to compress and push it on. Only needed to compress about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.

[@karlsager4199]

Chris is right - removing the small black rubber stopper/spacer from trunk hinge creates enough play to install the struts. Takes literally 3 seconds.

[@GavDetails]

The owner will know for next time.

[@adamfoo1855]

What black rubber spacers?

[@jimmyalvarez2783]

Anyone find it? Got pics

[@kongo6042]

Took about 10 min pain in the ass but got it done

[@kenjarvis4752]

Would have been nice for you to actually show how the ratchet strap was used? It’s like you figured it out and left everyone to guess how?

[@GavDetails]

If you read some of the other comments, there is a less invasive way to replace. The concept of the straps is to wrap the strap around the strut and use the ratcheting action to compress the strut to fit on the studs.

[@anthonypalermo3750]

I have the same strong arm struts and for some reason it wont hold on any of the lower positions...and i have the same trunk with oem spoiler. Not sure if my strut is defective or not

[@GavDetails]

If the car is 5+ years old and the struts are original, they may be worn out.

[@anthonypalermo3750]

@@GavDetails the strong arm struts are brand new I just installed them, after comparing your video mine definitely dont hold like yours

[@GavDetails]

@@anthonypalermo3750 the vehicle is my neighbors. He has not had any issues. Reach out to the manufacturer and see if they will replace the units for you.

[@rafaelrivas8272]

Having same problem with new strut just a quarter of an inch longer. How was the ratchet strap technique work?

[@GavDetails]

The strap goes around the strut, crank the ratchet to compress the strut a small amount. Now it will fit into the mounting points.

[@rafaelrivas8272]

Thank you. I got it to work. Thanks for your video.

[@chrismcdaniel6405]

You don't need a ratchet strap. After you remove the struts, you need to remove the two black plastic "wrap-around" spacers from the back of the trunk hinges. With one hand, lower the trunk lid a few inches (don't let go) and with the other hand remove the spacer (one side at a time...comes right off with your thumbnail) then push the lid back up. Connect the bottom of the strut first, then use one hand to push the trunk open while using the other hand to pull the top of the strut into place. It takes a little opening pressure to line them up, but they will go on without compressing the strut. Don't forget to put the plastic tabs back in!

[@garysamaha7684]

@@chrismcdaniel6405 Thanks so much, Chris,. Your solution to remove the "wrap around spacers" did the trick! I didn't even notice that those spacers were there until I read your post. The best, easy, effective fix. Thanks again!!

[@chrismcdaniel6405]

@@garysamaha7684 Haha...I definitely spent my fair share of time trying to compress the struts before I figured it out :-)

[@jeanffevilien1699]

Next time put the top first