Any ideas on what is missing from this engine hatch?

[kubcat]

We have recently taken delivery of a Ribtec 890sx that is about a 2004 model. The one piece engine hatch is really heavy and difficult to lift.

There is a solid stainless steel fitting in the engine bay and one on the hatch but whatever was in between is now missing and I am trying to work out what it was. If it wasn't something like a hydraulic strut as on hatchback cars, I cannot see how it would make lifting easier.

Maybe I will just have to fit some struts or an electric actuator.

Any ideas?

[Hightower]

I would guess that hydraulic struts is the way forward, but you'll have to get the right ones otherwise it might be a waste of money either by making it more difficult to close or not making it light enough for your requirements.

The key shaped bracket looks like it would accomodate one end of a safety stay, to prevent the lid from dropping on you whilst in the open postion. Kind of like a bonnet lift bar on a car.

[kubcat]

Thanks Andy, if this hatch fell on you, you would know about it so I like your thinking. I will forget what is there and move forward with hydraulic struts.

[diverbert]

freind of mine has some gas filled stainless steel struds makes lifting his a lot easier. (he has ahatch of 3,5x1,5m) both sides strut.

reg bert