This gas strut provides controlled lifting and damping force for the engine cooling system access panel or hood. It is installed between the chassis and the panel, using internal gas pressure to assist in raising the cover and a damping orifice to control its opening speed. A strut that has lost its charge will allow the panel to drop or require excessive manual effort to lift. This original-manufacturer component is built to the same gas pressure and stroke characteristics as the assembly originally fitted at the factory, so the opening force and damping rate match the original design. When replacing, ensure the strut is oriented with the rod end pointing downward to maintain proper lubrication of the seal.