Nissan Repair: 1998 Maxima 100k tune-up, flathead screwdrivers, plug gap

Question
Another question about the hood struts:  It seems that the ball part of the joint is a hard metal...and the socket type of the joint on the end of the hood strut itself is aluminum.  Needless to say, the wd-40 didn't do much, even though it seems to save and/or cure everything from warts to headaches.  Any other tips?


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Followup To
Question -
I just passed 100k and I figure it's about time to do some work.  I've got spark plugs I'll be installing since it's still running on the originals, but I don't know the proper gap.  I've also purchased hood struts since the hood won't hold itself up anymore.  My problem with these is I can't remove the old ones (I've tried various sizes of flathead screwdrivers)...any tricks or special tools removing the ball-ends?  What else should be done if it seems to be running fine but I want to give her some TLC?

Thanks
Answer -
The struts pop off on the ball end.  Get some WD40 and spray them and you will find they will come off much easier.  The plug gap should be called out in your manual.  If not check where you bought them and they will ahve the information.

Answer
The clips that hold the struts on the ball can be removed and that will aid in removal.  Look close and you will see that the end has a black metal clip that holds the assembly to the ball and that is what is hanging up the mix.  They go on easy but are a pain to remove.  Get a small screwdriver and pry them off.  Then, the strut will come off.