I am confused about which struts to order to replace the hood lift supports on my 1996 XJS 4.0, did the car come originally with one or two locking struts? I normally have replaced the lift struts in pairs on previous vehicles as when one fails the other may not be far behind.

 

I know on my 90 both of them "lock" However they were replaced prior to me purchasing the car. I don't see why you would not want two locking ones as it is just extra security to prevent the hood from falling on you. But that is just my two cents.

 

I will replace them both when one fails.

FWIW, I believe the Kirby book talks about using a Honda replacement strut from a specific supplier that actually is a little longer than the Jag strut. The other strut fits fine and allows the hood to open farther which improves access. Just a thought.