I agree with your thinking Tony. I believe that seals, especially high pressure ones like used in struts and A/C compressors, do better when kept lubricated. So as ironic as it seems the struts should last longer when used occasionally than when stored, whether or not they're stored on the shelf or installed in the car and rarely cycled.What is the storage and shelf life of the struts? Mine lasted a surprisingly long time. But you have evidence of storage issues (they have package stains for fail to support after installation). So, will a new strut in its shipping state last any longer than an installed compressed strut? Is it possible to order and leave on the shelf as a spare expecting that it will perform like new in 5 years, or is this a part that has a shelf life and you're better off getting a new one when the current ones expire?
No, not too late at all. I ordered quantity 100 fronts and 100 rears (50 front sets and 50 rear sets). 100 was really the lowest number I could order with any kind of appreciable price break. I will update the thread as soon as they arrive!