[Ravenous666]

I'll do the retrofit on my 2020 X3 trunk soon.

Ordered the OEM actuator and bolts.

I have created a STL file for the mounting plate today and the first prototype will be printed next week.

I'll keep you updated how the mounting plate print turns out. If it's ok, i'll provide the STL file for download.

It's a very simple piece. Just needs a hole drilled and thread cut for the balljoint.

[Ravenous666]

The prototype print turned out ok so for anyone interested here is the STL file.

Set infill to 100% for a solid print.

Parts required for the retrofit:

51477442678 gas trut 1ea
41218186446 ball bolt M8 2ea
07147132312 socket M8 1ea

[rob175]

I just bought a set of 4 of those same struts for $18 w/free shipping off eBay.....only need 1 but they came as a set.

Now I need to understand how to attach the part that mounts to the trunk body. It looks and reads like I just drill into the trunk carpeting? But not sure about that....IF I understand correctly you only drilled through the trunk LINER not through any metal....correct?? Was it difficult to get under the trunk floor liner?

What size rivets?

[Ravenous666]

Originally Posted by Ravenous666

The prototype print turned out ok so for anyone interested here is the STL file.

Set infill to 100% for a solid print.

Parts required for the retrofit:

51477442678 gas trut 1ea
41218186446 ball bolt M8 2ea
07147132312 socket M8 1ea

Finally everything is installed.

[iroko]

I just ordered the retrofit parts from BMW. Could you please attach the STL file you have created.

[stelthy]

Bringing this thread back from the dead, to request that STL file if at all possible.

Thanks!

[Ravenous666]

I need to look for the file tomorrow. But as soon as I find it, I'll upload it.

[ThomasR]

Hello. Did you ever post the STL file? Thanks.

[Chief Orman]

Originally Posted by teaston

Great mod, I like your style!

I was considering doing the same, but it only takes a couple of seconds to put the loop onto the hook to hold it up, so I can't be bothered.

Picture?

[Ravenous666]

Originally Posted by ThomasR

Hello. Did you ever post the STL file? Thanks.

Finally found the file again when searching some older USB sticks.

[ThomasR]

Originally Posted by Ravenous666

Finally found the file again when searching some older USB sticks.

Thanks! My parts just came in today actually so perfect timing. Interesting checkerboard pattern there on the top of your part...

[dinan5m3]

Ordered the 2018 trunk floor.

[TheDuh]

Hi X3 owners,
Mine did not come with the struts (and has a narrow boot floor). My Freelander 2 has a boot hook - factory installed. So I thought, why not mod it like the FL2?
Very cheap of BMW. At least they could have followed the Freely boot hook solution after getting rid of the struts.

1. Find yourself a sturdy Velcro strap with a loop. Punch a hole near the bottom.



2. On the bottom side of the boot floor, you will find four Torx 15 screws. Remove all four, pry the plastic panel outwards.



3. Insert the Velcro strap and screw back - screw through the hole you made in the Velcro strap.



4. Find a household hook, and voila! Boot holds up hands-free.





5. Boot strap stores away when not in use.

[Ravenous666]

Originally Posted by TheDuh

Hi X3 owners,
Mine did not come with the struts (and has a narrow boot floor). My Freelander 2 has a boot hook - factory installed. So I thought, why not mod it like the FL2?
Very cheap of BMW. At least they could have followed the Freely boot hook solution after getting rid of the struts.

1. Find yourself a sturdy Velcro strap with a loop. Punch a hole near the bottom.

Why not retrofit the strut?

IMHO the strap and hook solution is not good, because it holds the risk of damaging the seal.

[TheDuh]

Hi Captain, thanks for your views. This is a 'budget' fix. The cost is zero with things lying around the house. And the hook will be there for 1-2 minutes only.