Chrysler Repair: Sebring Convertible: trunk lid support cylinder replacement, ball studs, support brackets

Question
The trunk lid on my Seebring will not stay open on it's own any longer, I have a large dole in the trunk to hold it open when loading or unloading.  Is there anything I can do to repair it or will it need to go to the dealer?  Expensive?
Thanks,
Mary

Answer
Hi Mary,
The support cylinder is something you can replace youself. You can buy a replacement at an Auto parts store or a dealer parts department (compare prices). You need to support the lid in the up position with a stick. Then remove the caps on each end of the cylinder, and pry the cylinder end loops off the ball stud of the fixed brackets which will release the cylinder. Then extend the new cylinder to reach the necessary length, push the loops over the ball studs of the support brackets, put on the end caps, and you are done.
The cylinder is normally gas-filled and it ultimately leaks out and that is why it won't hold up the lid anymore.
Roland