---
title: How to Install the Owl Hood Struts for a Sprinter Van
description: Install Owl Vans Hood Struts on your Sprinter van for smooth, hands-free hood operation. Ditch the factory prop rod and upgrade to gas struts—quick install, big convenience for van life and maintenance.
---
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# How to Install the Owl Hood Struts for a Sprinter Van
## How to install hood struts on your Sprinter Van or Winnebago Revel for easier engine access.
**Tools & Parts Required:**
- Hood struts (x2, included in your kit)
- Open-ended wrenches:
- 10mm wrench for removing bolts on your Sprinter Van
- 7/16" and 1/2" wrenches for assembly
- Socket wrench (optional, for ease)
### Steps:
#### 1. **Prepare the Hood Struts**
- Before starting the installation on your **Sprinter Van**, you’ll need to tighten the ball end joints on the struts.
- Take the ball end that’s attached to the mounting bracket. Using your 7/16" wrench, tighten it. Repeat this process for both struts.
- Set these struts aside once tightened.
#### 2. **Remove the Factory Bolt**
- Open the hood of your **Sprinter Van**.
- Use a 10mm wrench (or socket) to remove the bolt located near the fender. This bolt will later secure the bottom part of the strut.
- Set the bolt aside as you will reuse it.
#### 3. **Install the Lower Bracket**
- Take one of the tightened ball end strut assemblies. The ball end should face inward, towards the engine.
- Position the mounting bracket where you removed the factory bolt.
- Insert the bolt through the mounting bracket and back into the original hole.
- Tighten the bolt securely using your 10mm wrench.
#### 4. **Install the Upper Bracket**
- Move to the top hinge where the hood attaches.
- Take the second ball end mount and position it in place.
- Assemble the hardware as follows:
- Black washer first, then the machined aluminum washer (with the step down side facing up).
- Insert the ball end into the hood’s factory hole.
- Add another machined aluminum washer on the opposite side, then secure it with a Nylock nut.
- Use your 1/2" wrench to tighten the entire assembly.
- Ensure the ball end is facing toward the engine.
#### 5. **Attach the Gas Strut**
- Take one of the gas struts.
- For aesthetics, install the larger barrel side of the strut at the top.
- Snap the bottom part of the gas strut onto the ball end of the lower bracket.
- Press it into place until it clicks.
- Next, push the hood slightly higher to allow you to attach the top end of the gas strut onto the upper ball end bracket.
- Once both ends are attached, ensure the strut is secure.
#### 6. **Remove the Factory Hood Prop**
- Before installing the strut on the other side of the **Sprinter Van**, remove the factory hood prop.
- Pull the retaining pin straight out to release the prop.
- Remove the prop entirely.
#### 7. **Repeat the Process on the Other Side**
- Now, repeat the installation process on the other side of your **Sprinter Van**:
- Remove the lower factory bolt.
- Install the lower and upper brackets using the same procedure.
- Attach the second gas strut.
#### 8. **Final Checks and Adjustments**
- With both gas struts installed, close and open the hood to test the functionality.
- The hood should now open smoothly and hold itself up without needing the factory prop.
Congrats on installing your new gear from Owl!
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