Rear trunk won't stay open

[slogans7]

I've seen lots of problems with lids that won't open when the battery's dead, but none about a trunk lid that won't stay open. And that's my problem. The trunk opens fine, but as soon as I put something in the boot, the lid falls on my head immediately.

Ow.

I don't know if the Stabilus gas springs are just shot and need to be replaced, or if they can be adjusted. I tried their site and found no help at all.

You guys know?

PS - Same problem on the hood of my wife's Merc E320 wagon. Is this contagious among cars?