How to replace hood piston on 1988 c4

I purchased a new hood assist piston as I saw that it was missing one on driver's side. I tried to install it but it will not line up with the pin on top if you hook the bottom and there is no way to compress it to fit.  What is the trick to install this? I then decided to remove the one on the passenger side and when I did the piston released ever so slight but now I can not install the old one same problem.  If I posted this in the wrong section I apologize .

I haven't had to do this myself, but I think you can do it by removing one end of your hood support rod so the hood can be raised all the way.   It would be best to have some help holding the hood up while you have the hood support disconnected!

Thank you I was thinking about that and yes I will get a person to hold that hood up. Again thanks for the help.

I have a 1995 C4 convertible with no visible hood pistons and it is a bear to lift. Saw in add there were 2 listed that should be there. I ordered and received them but can not see where they go. They appear to be quite long also. Have been thru several manuals and can not locate where or how they are mounted. 

Thank You

Nick

If you are referring to the normal "hold it up " support rod, where would the second gas support rod go? I was sent 2. Also, would my 95 be like your 88?

 

Thanks

Nick