Whale-tail spoiler

[Cerrion Steel]

Just reading the post about design changes reminded me...

I have a mk. 2 S targa with the big spoiler (incorporating duck ponds!) which I love. However, this spoiler adds a fair bit of weight to the boot lid, and the single gas strut is puny. The boot lid won't stay open on its own if the car is facing (even moderately) uphill and, even if the car's not facing uphill, it doesn't take much of a draught to blow the lid shut with a bang. I'm sure this must be a common experience and people more practical than I will have made some effective modifications?

Any help appreciated.

All the best,
Richard

[NCE 61]

Richard I have exactly the same issue with mine i.e. the single gas strut is not really up to the job with the extra boot lid weight.I am going to see if I can get either an up-rated gas strut or have a second one fitted on the other side.

[Cerrion Steel]

Hi, Nick.

I noticed that the convertibles with standard boot lids have two struts, and assumed the improvement would apply to them all! I therefore assume your boot lid is the same as mine, and isn't flared to fix a strut on the left?

Cheers,
Richard

[NCE 61]

I had a better look today and you are correct the boot lid is not suitable for another strut on the L/H side, although on checking out the gas strut which is manufactured by Camloc type SDA8B2100142B2L-540N I found the following on their web site.The type code is interpreted into model,end fittings type,dimension & force of which higher ratings are available for the same dimension.The exact model No is not listed so I will call then and see what they can advise.Will let you know what I find.

[Cerrion Steel]

Great work. Many thanks!

Richard

[southgate]

The strut on my 4 litre is pretty rubbish too.

Would be interested if there was a stiffer jobbie to replace it.

[NCE 61]

I had a reply from Camloc and they said the following:-

Camlok said:

You will need to contact TVR Direct for exact replacements, other wise you will need to contact our distributor RS Components www.rs-components.com who supply standard springs the nearest to your spring is 686 963 (RS Part No), the stroke is the same rod and tube diameters are the same and pressure is variable at 650N that you can pressure down to 540N but the tube is longer and the extended length is longer than you currently take.

So it would appear that the TVR item is specially made for them, although the part they quote would be satisfactory and have a higher force level.