Air compressed trunk?

[Azazel]

Just an idea to pass by you guys. I wasn't exactly sure where to post this. Anyways, i got a hold of some air compressed, uh.... things. They are originally used for lifting the kiddy bumpers up in a bowling alley. They are quite strong and when i hooked them up to the air compressor they well.... Shot a quarter into the Sheet-rock.

I was trying to figure out what to do with them when i thought maybe they could be used to open a trunk lid? Think its worth it to try and invest in making it work? I know id need all sorts of things but my big question is, how would i control the up motion so the trunk doesn't just fly up and off? If i don't use them for the trunk I'm going to use them for my mud truck's CB antennas. Ive broken 3 antennas going through low hanging trees so i want a way to fold them down and flip them up on demand.

[tenspeed]

but my big question is, how would i control the up motion so the trunk doesn't just fly up and off?

You control the amount of air flowing. You can make a flat plate with a small orifice. You can also use a needle valve so you can adjust it.

[Bryan]

I think they'd be more practical used for your antenna

[LukeL]

Since you have air powered ones you could use these. But you may not want to because it is able to kill a person (ie, shoot a quarter through sheet rock).

Generally speaking, these would be a bit too powerful for just your trunk. Linear actuators would be a better part to use for opening the trunk. They are usually powered under 12V loads and come in a variety of ratings.

But since you got it already. The best setup would be to use a regulator with this "air-piston." A needle valve is too fine tune and probably will be an overkill for precision and price compared to a regulator in your application. Obviously you need a air source so a compressor will be needed and a storage tank. But get a blow-off valve (for safety) and a regulator to control it.

Good luck. Keep us posted.

[Azazel]

Thanks, i think i might use them for my antennas first. I work in a bowling alley as the mechanic, easy and good pay so dont laugh. But i can get ahold of alot of them so i might try them on my antennas first because im sick of paying for new ones and the trunk closes just fine. But when i get down to it i will take lots of pics to show you guys. Wanna show of the truck anyways.