Hiya folks,
I'm about to embark on a 'new' project to replace the gas strut in my rodkicker. Please refer to attached photo as I'm not clear on what brand/variety of kicker type. The strut is quite large (approx. 2.5m) to support main of 45m2 with boom length around 5m.

I haven't disconnected yet, and before I do am hoping that I might get some tips from the brains trust.

(Please disregard the temporary setup of the boom brake)

cheers rob

Do you also have a topping lift? Going to refurb the existing strut?

Basic engineering approach would seem to be:
1 Support boom.
2 Tension kicker so upper pin becomes loose and can be removed
3 Support strut so it does not punch a hole in your nice spray hood.
4 Gently ease tension on kicker to allow strut to expand.
5 Take to repair shop or whip out heavy wallet for a new one.

yes, planning to repair/refurbish existing & do not have dedicated topping lift - use main halyard.

Was keen to understand what I might find (I.e spring loaded or gas strut), and if this is something that may be specialist?
Who does repair/refurb struts? I've discussed with sailmaker whose auto response is to buy a new one (that coincidentally he sells) - given expense and my personal aversion to our disposable society, am keen to take it on.

I pulled mine apart to shorten the strut and found a heavy spring in the lower section that is secured to the mast.

Simple engineering; the block applies pressure to the top strut which in turn is resisted by the spring in the lower section.

A brand might help if there is one on it?

But yes the majority have a spring with a spacer to allow one vang model to fit different boats, some have a movable pin instead.

I daresay the spring has died if it's not doing what it's supposed to do, without the brand it might be hard to get an exact replacement, although got to be somewhere you can buy springs.

Thanks Yara, seabird and rumblefish. As mentioned no visible brand type, but will remove (carefully) and report. Have engineer mate who can help with spring or gas strut.
cheers rob