Car Trunk Lid Shock Mount Connector

The trunk lid closer shock mount on my Nissan Sentra snapped.  Although a new shock is less than $20, I could instead 3d print a new shock mount for less than 20 cents.

It screws onto the end of the closer shock just as the OEM mount did but unlike the OEM mount, it does not use a spring clip.  Instead, I used an interference fit around the outer ring to snap over the mounting ball on the trunk lid.  A bit of force is required to press the item over the mounting ball - BE CAREFUL since the item may snap under the force if pressed too hard.  There should be some force required but not more than a 6 foot tall man with a strong grip could exert with thumb and fingers.  If you're using a tool to try to force it on then please wear safety glasses just in case and/or consider resizing the part.

This 3d print may be useful for other vehicles, most likely all Nissan vehicles.  It may fit some American hatch lids or trunk lids but I've not tested it beyond my own vehicle.

To help with fitment, a STEP file is provided so that you can edit the part as needed.

Slicer Settings (Cura)

• Material - TPU98A.  PETG will also work but is not as durable*
• Orientation - The screw opening sits flat on the bed with part standing
• Layer height - 0.24**
• Wall line count - 100
• Infill density - 100%
• Support - None
• Build plate adhesion - Brim (small footprint)

**For increased durability, use TPU98A to print these items as TPU98A is more durable in direct sunlight and resists breaking better than PETG or ABS/ASA.

**The layer height of 0.24mm may seem unusual but it was first used with a PETG/CarbonX which required a minimum layer height of 0.24mm.  Getting a good interference fit with PETG/CarbonX was impossible as the material would break at the slightest interference fit. I kept the 0.24mm setting for basic PETG for slightly improved strength but 0.2mm or 0.28mm may work.  Keep in mind that the fitment may be affected slightly by different layer height settings.