i've always wondered why fomoco uses these struts to hold the hood open and which have to be replaced eventually. why won't the springs, which usually last the life of the vehicle, work on fords. this seems like something that's done just to be different. i don't know for sure about the previous years but of course the '04's are using (2)-about how long is the effective life span

 

I think they use the struts because it costs less to manufacture than a spring loaded hinge. Here they can use a simple oversized rivet to bond two pieces of metal to make a hinge and use a strut to hold it up. They should last you at least 5 years or more. The hood is aluminum so it is relatively light to keep open. At least they did not cheapen out completely and just put a prop rod in there.
Brian

 

I definitely like the struts better because the prop rod just always seems to be in the way when trying to work on something in the engine compartment.

 

I was quite shocked a couple weeks ago when I looked at a ridiculously expensive Chvey SSR and found that it had a prop rod holding up the hood. You'd think that for the amount of money that Chev wants for the SSR that they could have at least used struts.

 

hey racerguy, concerning the ssr- i will only say that i think that it's illogical in every way (and it's actually put together by an outside company from what i have read).-the prop rod dates from the 30's & 40's but somewhere a little later the magnificent coiled hood spring made it's entrance into the auto world. this allowed the hood to be opened and stay open (usually) in one shot. like sulley04 said, hood props are in the way. i do have an '81 dodge van that uses one for a short hood. i really don't think struts can be cheaper for the mfr to use but maybe. my main point is that they certainly aren't for the vehicle owner when they deteriorate and need replacing. i have never had to spend a penny to get the hood to stay open but with my '04 stx i might if i keep it long enough. if chevy and mopar trucks use springs why can't ford, it seems to me that this is the better idea.