Be careful in changing the tension of the spring connected to the "popper bar". Making it too strong will cause it to be harder to open the trunk and also latching closed. It is a balance to get it right so adjust it just enough to make it work, don't add a second spring. Also MAKE SURE that the latch is perfectly lined up so the latch bar is falling directly into the lock and not rubbing the sides. I have seen the latch bars worn thin from rubbing the edges of the lock, any drag just makes things worse. Another thing to point out is many times the lock needs to be adjusted down to get the hood to sit right to the fenders but there is not enough adjustment so remove the lock and elongate the bolt holes to allow the lock to set a little lower. Properly adjusted you can open the bonnet with 1 hand. All of this also goes for the lock on the engine cover. The struts have nothing to do with these adjustments. David Teitelbaum vin 10757