The struts should have a little steel clip that goes around the end. Poke a small screwdriver between the clip and the strut, and then tug the strut and it should release. Theres no need to fully remove the clip normally. Other than that, have three people to make it easy, though it is possible wih two. Also, place some rags beneath the corner of the bonnet to stop it damaging if it does slide out of your hands. And finally, use a pencil to trace around your hinges current position. Itll make it far easier to get lined up correctly afterwards. And when you go to close it, be very careful in case it isnt sitting straight, because if it touches the guards, you will lose paint
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The problem with America is stupidity. I'm not saying there should be a capital punishment for stupidity, but why don't we just take the safety labels off of everything and let the problem solve itself?