an improved hydraulic strut for mounting a moveable structure to a support structure , the strut having an outer telescoping member and an inner telescoping member . the outer telescoping member defines a first hydraulic chamber and a second hydraulic chamber , connected by a fluid flow restrictor . the inner telescoping member includes a main piston that translates within the second hydraulic chamber between a closed position , where the inner telescoping member is fully retracted into the outer telescoping member , and an open position , wherein the inner telescoping member is fully extended from the outer telescoping member .