Parts for your 2008 Ford Ranger-Gas struts

2008 Ford Ranger gas struts

For a factory-standard 2008 Ford Ranger (PJ/PK in AU/NZ, also the North American 2008 Ranger), gas struts aren’t used on the bonnet or the tailgate. The bonnet is held up by a manual support/prop rod, and the tailgate uses steel cables on the sides—no gas struts from the factory. This setup is confirmed in Ford’s technical literature: the 2008 Ford Ranger Owner’s Guide describes raising the bonnet and securing it with the support rod, while the Ford Ranger PJ/PK Workshop Manual (2006–2011) details the bonnet “support rod” and tailgate “cable” arrangements rather than any gas-charged struts.

Why didn’t Ford fit gas struts? It comes down to the Ranger’s workhorse brief. A prop rod and cable tailgate are simple, cost-effective, robust, and easy to service in fleet and remote conditions. They save space around the hinges, avoid extra seals and moving parts, and hold up better to dust, mud, and the hard knocks utes see on farms, sites, and bush tracks. Tailgates in particular are designed for loads and rough handling, cables and basic hinges are tough, proven, and cheap to replace.

Where gas struts are relevant on a 2008 Ranger is in add-ons and accessories. Many owners fit canopies, hard tonneau lids, or toolboxes—these almost always use gas struts to lift and hold lids and glass. Some owners also choose aftermarket bonnet-strut kits to replace the prop rod for convenience.

• Common Ranger items that use gas struts: canopy rear doors and side windows, hard tonneau lids, some underbody/toolbox lids, aftermarket bonnet-strut kits.
• If replacing accessory struts, match the length, end fittings, and Newton (N) rating, and replace in pairs for even lift and hold.

Bottom line: the stock 2008 Ranger doesn’t have factory gas struts on the bonnet or tailgate, but plenty of accessories do. If theirs has a canopy or hard lid, those struts are service items and should be checked during regular servicing for weak lift, sticking shafts, or oil misting at the seals.

Popular questions

Can gas struts be fitted to the 2008 Ranger bonnet?
Yes. Aftermarket bonnet-strut kits are available for the PJ/PK Ranger and typically bolt to existing guard/hinge points, so there’s no drilling on most kits. Choose a kit designed for the model to get the right brackets and strut force, and always install as a pair. After fitting, check clearance to the wiper cowl and ensure the bonnet closes without rubbing.

How do I choose replacement struts for my canopy or hard lid?
Start with the brand/part number on the old strut if present. Otherwise, measure extended length, stroke, and note the end fittings (ball socket, eyelet, etc.). Match the Newton rating to the lid’s weight, stainless or coated struts are a good shout for coastal AU/NZ. Replace both sides together and mount rod-end down when open—this keeps the internal seal lubricated.

Does the tailgate have gas struts, and can I add an assist?
The 2008 Ranger tailgate doesn’t use gas struts from factory. You can add a tailgate damper or strut-assist kit to slow the drop and make one-handed opening easier. Pick a kit designed for the PJ/PK tub, follow torque specs, and check it doesn’t foul a tub liner or canopy frame. Keep the pivots clean and recheck fasteners after a few cycles.