I'm not the expert, but I think i can help with some general stuff.
Quote: Originally Posted by
SoloCon 
how would one of these work? I know what I am trying to do, just no idea how it all works. LOL
Basically, you'd have a relay (or possibly two?) that would trigger the actuator to extend or retract. I couldn't help you with that part. I know the general idea, but not the specifics.
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How much room should I allow to use one of these "linear actuator"
That would depend on the dimensions of the actuator. They make micro actuators that are only a couple inches long, others that are long enough to open a trunk lid or door and others that can raise a dump truck bed.
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should I be looking as Gas or elec?
Electric. Gas actuators are those that slow up the raising/lowering of your hatchback lid.
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Sorry for asking so many questions, just never done this before
Heh. neither have I. Realistically, though, mp3car.com isn't going to be your best resource for something like this. I suggest using
http://the12volt.com as a starting point.
Now, if you want to have PC control of an actuator, there's lots of information about how to control triggering of relays and whatnot.