Simple question for the trunk struts
 

Do the ball-socket for the front trunk struts just snap off with a screwdriver wedged between them and the frame? I started to do it this way but it's scratching the paint and they aren't coming off as easily as the convertible top ball socket so just wanted to double make sure. Especially since the socket isn't just a socket - it seems to have pins or something inside it for extra grip and the plastic housing has edges to it.

According to the Bentley Manual, you remove front strut by "prying spring clip and removing strut from ball joint".

Pelican Technical Article: Boxster Hood Shock Replacement - 986 / 987

Mine had retaining clips on them as described in this article.

If I recall correctly, once I figured that out they came off without too much fuss.

Good luck

Weird...I was looking at Pelican and didn't see that article. Retaining clips...good to know! Never done trunk shocks before. Thanks.

Take a small flat tip screw driver and pry the retainer clips up just a little. Use your shoulder to hold the trunk up and pry the strut loose at the ball end using your finger as a fulcrum to protect the paint. Simple. You can do all four in five minutes easily.

Picture of clips
 

I happen to have just done this and still have the parts because of course you never toss them out in case you need them 12 years from nowhttp://986forum.com/forums/uploads01...1417880684.jpg