Resolved: Boss Hoss '57 Chevy Tilt Body Struts

[The Mindless Philosopher]

I installed a pair of gas struts (Suspa Lift Supports C16-06867) on my 2001 Boss Hoss '57 Chevy tilt body tonight. They fit perfectly but don't work: not enough grunt to keep that 'glass propped up.

The set I bought were rated as "Force 267 = 60 Lbs." I took it as meaning 60 lbs per strut, but now, I have my doubts. They were made for the hatchback lid on an SUV. The dimensions are 10.75 inches collapsed and 17.13 inches extended with 10mm ball sockets (exactly what I needed for the Hoss).

I am not certain of the trike body's tilt angle. I guess it's somewhere between 60-70 degrees. I figured at that angle, 120 lbs combined force should suffice, but nope. At least I'm out less than $30 for those Suspa's, so no biggie.

Now, I am looking at a set of "Force 890 = 200 Lbs." prop struts in the same dimensions.

[The Mindless Philosopher]

While awaiting the 200 lb struts (should be here by next Wednesday), I'll keep the 60 lb ones on. They won't prop the body, but they sure make life a lot easier when I go to raise it.

[knockdolian]

Because I had no idea of the weight I bought mine from BossHoss. Not sure what I paid for them. I’ll look and see if there are any numbers on them

[The Mindless Philosopher]

The 200 lb ones I have on the way were $37.80 (no shipping charge).

[The Mindless Philosopher]

We have a winner! These Lift Support Depot gas struts (rated at 200 lbs. each) do the trick!

Part#ST170M1-200S10
Interchange part numbers: ST170M1-200S10, ST170M1-200

Available on eBay.

A single strut will support the fiberglass tilt body! The other one is there for insurance! It doesn't take gorilla force to pull the body back down, either. It feels perfect! Well worth $40-ish.

Now, to see if these things have any longevity in them...

[knockdolian]

PM sent ref struts

[The Mindless Philosopher]

PM sent ref struts

I haven't forgotten you. Will post pic's as soon as a data cable arrives. I don't know why my new camera didn't come with one. They used to in the old days.

[The Mindless Philosopher]

Here are my tilt body struts. If you look closely, you can see the each of the hinges down below, too.

[knockdolian]

Thanks for the photos. As you said completely different.
Regards.