I'm guessing there is a difference between the spoiler and non-spoiler trunk lid torque rods, either in diameter of the rod itself or in tensile strength. The weight of the spoiler itself multiplied by the distance from the fulcrum point (hinges) would make quite a difference in making the trunk lid open properly. There are archived posts from members saying their trunk lids did not operate properly after adding a spoiler to a non-spoiler lid.

2004 Bonne SLE
1971 Chevelle SS

William E. I emailed the two places and both sent back replies the next day stating that they did not have the part and it was no longer available. I also did a mock purchase, whereby I ordered it, put it in the basket and did everything but go through the paying step and the orders went through to that point. I assume that when I would have tried to pay, that they would have said not in stock or sent me an email later saying not in stock. I had that happen once before for something else on a website that was saying available. Everything went through and then 3 days later go an email saying not in stock and no longer available. Also, when I go to some of these other websites that say the part is available, when I go to fill out the inquiry as to if they really have it or not, the website remembers all my info due to computer cookies so seems that they are all using a central web inventory. I think just poor website maintenance. I have also found when checking some of the used parts places online that when you go to look for a part, it is the same fill in screen. One I found here in town electronically transferred my call to a telephone call center that they subscribe to nationwide.
I have made a list of the local used parts places and recycle yards and will give them all a call when I have time. I have also thought about checking with a welding company to see if this can be repaired. I am doubting it as don't think it will stand the pressure/load that it would need but will check just in case that is my only avenue. Also, think I will check with recyclers in TN where my son lives as maybe they might have more old junked cars there than in So. Cal.
Thanks again for the thoughts/suggestions. Much appreciated. Will keep updated when I get more info. Barbara

garagerog, Thanks for the point. Never thought about the additional weight. I will be careful in that respect and in the future check for with spoiler. I wonder if I found one without a spoiler if the trunk would at least open easier and stay open rather than pop open. If the only one I find is without, maybe it would be worth trying. If I can just get it to stay up when open that would be an improvement. All food for thought and good information. Never thought that I would have to learn about trunk lid torque rods! Thanks again. Barbara

Just wanted to let everyone know that I went down to the junkyards here in Otay Mesa, So. Cal. After visiting 3, I hit pay dirt and they had a car with the part that I needed. Don't know if it had a spoiler or not as it was way back in the yard and I did not see it but they put the part on and it works like a charm. Cost $20 for the part and I gave the guy $25 to put it on, his boss said to give him $10 but it was not an easy job and it was hot down there today. I don't know if I can name places but if not I guess the moderator will remove it. If anyone is in So. Cal near Chula Vista/Otay Mesa, take your business to La Joya Wrecking. They were very nice and helpful as was Datsun Wrecking who referred me to La Joya.


Thanks for all the assistance and advice you guys gave me. Much appreciated. Barbara

Thanks for letting us know how it turned out, glad you got it fixed!