These struts have enough strength to open the hood and keep it upright. It is equally important not to use excessive force when closing the hood, so as not to strain it. Installation couldn't be simpler, no drilling required. Another customer provided good photos of how to use the nut holder on the underside of the fender. The only possible confusion is which fender holes to use, which are the rearmost. I put a large washer under the strut mount to distribute the weight of the downward force on the fender. I have purchased a second CX5 kit and intend to adapt it to my 2007 Mazda Speed 6. Before the prop bar, manufacturers used springs in combination with a linkage to open and hold the hood up.