Is there a special tool (or trick) for hood strut clips?

[Biomed]

Some of the equipment I service has struts similar to the hood struts used on vehicles. There isn't much clearance around the struts which makes it tough to remove the clip. Anyone know of a special tool (or trick) to remove these clips? There are some internet videos that suggest using a screwdriver and needle nose to remove the clips but I have not had great success using that method.

 

[shurik06_83]

if the ends are plastic its easy grab the stock with vice grips and twist the end clip will pop of and come loose or brake off if ur replacing them it wont matter

 

[davesnothere]

I've always used a pocket screwdriver.

 

[wreckerman5357]

I use a small screwdriver, mini pick, or my pocket knife. Depends on what tool is easiest to grab.

 

[DanCo]

I've always used a cotter pin extractor. Then just twist the head off the pivot.

Dan

 

[ImportTuner]

I usually removed them with my Channellock nippers ...

 

[Tunger]

I use a pocket screwdriver to Roll the clip off and the just twist the strut off the ball stud.

 

[JDS968]

Are we talking about the kind that have the flat metal retainer to lock onto ball-type pin? Pocket flathead screwdriver (and a thumb to keep the retainer from going flying) seems to work best on those.