Chevy & GMC Vans

ok i seen a post for putting hood struts on our vans but now i can't seem to find it i need any info on doing this

I did the hood strut mod. I'll post some pics later today with some part numbers. The Smilie van is a 96 Safari. If your van is an earlier model the mod may a bit different.

I'm very glad you're doing that Skip. Seems Peter only posted a drawing and had no idea what struts he had used. Kind of like part of the mod. was top secret or something. Never did figure out why he didn't give any part numbers.
Hey Peter,,,,,

And I think your age is starting to show......

I had posted pics and a how-to awhile back, just don't remember on which site. Easy enuf to rectificate though. If you still need the pics and info, I can post a how-to this weekend...

PS: You were right about one thing, Larry. I never did post the part number, I did measure & post the body length and total extended length.

And I think your age is starting to show......

I had posted pics and a how-to awhile back, just don't remember on which site. Easy enuf to rectificate though. If you still need the pics and info, I can post a how-to this weekend...

PS: You were right about one thing, Larry. I never did post the part number, I did measure & post the body length and total extended length.

Peter you have to understand,,well,,you don't have to but it helps,,I'm 40 miles from the parts store and they won't let me bring an arm full of struts back home to try out. :-({|=
Only kidding my friend,,,no hurry here.

I think I remember reading on the old forum that the struts were from a charger. Not sure though, I'm just trying to help out your memory.

Here 'tis:

Hood Strut Install

what was the length open and closed and what pound were they i was thinking like a 25-40 pound on each side

The Smilie van is a 96 Safari. The earlier vans have a different hood hinge so there will be a different mounting method. This is how simple it is on the '95 up hoods. These struts are from CarQuest. Have your parts guy do a cross reference for a different brand if you don't have CarQuest in your area.

Nice install! I may have to try that on the SPB. =D>

It couldn't be any easier. The ball studs are an over the counter item. I threaded the hinge. There's plenty of material to hold the stud. The lower point is just drill a hole and bolt the stud in place.

I was just looking at the upper window on my rear dutch doors. Wouldn't those struts be close??

Those rear window struts may be too long. The struts I used are a Carquest Strong Arm. Part number: SHK 4451.

Tks again, I got the struts but the ball ends aren't to be found in this one tractor town. Guess I'm gonna grab some hex bar stock and make my own.

Stan, try your local salvage yard. Lots of vehicles have studs that may work.