1. Product Overview
The Strongarm 6166 Hood Lift Support is a pressurized cylinder designed to assist in holding open the hood of your vehicle. These lift supports are engineered to provide smooth operation and long-lasting performance, meeting or exceeding original equipment quality standards. They feature a self-cleaning piston technology, a patented multi-lobe sealing system, and a patented temperature compensation module for reliable function.
Image 1: Strongarm 6166 Hood Lift Support, showcasing its design and construction.
Key Features:
- Exact Fit: Designed to match original equipment specifications for correct fit and function.
- Durable Construction: Features a hardened, nitride plated steel shaft for optimal durability and a heavy gauge steel body that is electrostatically painted and heat cured to OE specifications.
- Leak Prevention: Equipped with a rubber O-ring piston seal to prevent leakage, ensuring controlled lift and consistent performance.
- Smooth Operation: Incorporates a self-cleaning piston assembly for smooth and reliable performance.
- Precision Fit: Upper bushing manufactured with quality precision for an exact fit and extended operating life.
Image 2: Visual representation of key features including smoother operation, longer lasting performance, and direct fit OEM replacement designs.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle. Improper installation or handling of lift supports can result in injury or damage.
- Support the Hood: Before removing old lift supports, ensure the hood is securely propped open with a secondary support mechanism to prevent it from falling unexpectedly.
- Replace in Pairs: For optimal performance and safety, it is recommended to replace lift supports in pairs, even if only one appears to be failing. This ensures balanced support and extends the lifespan of the new components.
- Eye Protection: Wear appropriate eye protection during installation to guard against debris or unexpected movements.
- Avoid Compression: Do not compress the new lift support by hand before installation, as this can damage the internal components.
3. Installation Instructions
The Strongarm 6166 Hood Lift Support is designed for quick and easy installation, typically requiring no special tools. Follow these steps for a successful replacement:
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Secure the Hood: Have a helper firmly hold the vehicle's hood in the fully open position. Alternatively, use a sturdy prop rod to ensure the hood remains open and stable throughout the process.
- Remove Old Lift Support: Carefully detach the old lift support from its mounting points. This usually involves prying open retaining clips with a small flathead screwdriver or simply pulling them off if they are ball-and-socket type connectors. Note the orientation of the old support.
- Install New Lift Support: Align the new Strongarm 6166 lift support with the mounting points. Press the ends onto the ball studs until they snap securely into place. Ensure both ends are fully seated.
- Test Operation: Once the new lift support is installed, carefully lower and raise the hood to confirm proper function and secure attachment.
Image 3: Illustrated steps for quick and easy installation: 1. Hold open the hatch/hood, 2. Remove old lift support, 3. Replace with new lift support. No special installation tools are required.
4. Operation
The Strongarm 6166 Hood Lift Support is designed to provide assisted lifting and secure holding of your vehicle's hood. When the hood is opened, the gas-charged cylinder extends, providing the necessary force to raise and hold the hood in the open position. When closing, a slight downward force will compress the support, allowing the hood to close smoothly. Always ensure the hood latches securely when closed.
Image 4: Demonstrates the versatile application of lift supports for various vehicle components such as hoods, hatches, and rear window glass.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Strongarm 6166 Hood Lift Support, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the lift supports for any signs of wear, damage, or leakage. Check the mounting points for corrosion or looseness.
- Keep Clean: Wipe down the piston rod with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface.
- Avoid Lubricants: Do not apply oil or grease to the piston rod or seals, as this can attract dirt and potentially damage the seals. The lift supports are designed to be maintenance-free in terms of lubrication.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Strongarm 6166 Hood Lift Support, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- Hood Does Not Stay Up: This is the most common sign of a failing lift support. If the hood sags or falls, the gas pressure inside the cylinder has likely diminished. Replace both lift supports.
- Squeaking or Grinding Noise: Check the mounting points for proper alignment and ensure they are free of dirt or corrosion. A slight amount of silicone spray on the ball studs (not the piston rod) may help, but if the noise persists, the internal mechanism might be failing.
- Difficulty Opening/Closing Hood: If the hood is unusually stiff to open or close, the lift supports might be over-pressurized or binding. Ensure correct model application and proper installation.
- Visible Leakage: Any visible oil or fluid leakage from the cylinder indicates a failed seal. The lift support must be replaced.
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 6166 |
| Manufacturer | StrongArm |
| Item Weight | 9.6 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 1 x 2 x 25.25 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | Black |
| OEM Part Numbers | 25865060, Monroe 901842, Stabilus SG330094 |
| GTIN (UPC) | 00845998009136 |
| Special Features | Hardened, nitride plated steel shaft; Heavy gauge steel body; Rubber O-ring piston seal; Self-Cleaning Piston Assembly; Precision upper bushing |
8. Warranty Information
Strongarm products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty details regarding your 6166 Hood Lift Support, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Strongarm website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
9. Customer Support
If you require further assistance, have questions about installation, or need to report an issue, please contact Strongarm customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the official Strongarm website. When contacting support, please have your product model number (6166) and purchase details readily available.
