Was working on the car over a few consecutive days and the bonnet struts gave way. Just wouldn't get enough pressure to hold the bonnet any longer..was already looking for replacements when suddenly it worked again just now!

How come?? Did the gas pressure just build itself up again? Temperature dependent? What do you guys think?

Had the engine been running this time? I guess it could be temperature related but to be honest, I'd still be looking for a new set pdq, rather than risk *death by bonnet*

Makes me glad that I have the early type with the built-in lock.

Have had the hatch of my Croma come down on me due to strut failure and it was not funny!!!

Oh yes, that lock, the one that spontainously decides it doesnt want to be locked anymore and cracks Phill on the head.

Ill stick with the mk1 bit of wood

Yeah Stan, the engine was running this time. You're right about getting new ones anyway..but atleast now its bought me some time as everywhere seems to be out of stock.

..and i can show off my shiny new polished plenum + fuel rail to people without having to use a broomstick!

When I first bought the coupé, complete with failed lifters, the first Fiat dealer I went into looking for these said they had never bothered with replacing the struts, they simply gave the customer a cut down broom handle!

Honestly?? Thats Shocking!


Atleast write 'Fiat' down the broomstick with a marker pen

Well apparently they did allocate it a part number!

Super