Very Nice Work Steve!
Following along with great interest. Also doing a G3 in and A-Body.
I did the gas struts for my steel hood as well. With the hood attached there is no side to side wobble.
Flipped my struts 180*... Body up and rod down. My strut manufacturer's recommendations.
It helps to keep the rods lubed and the seals will last longer.
Video of these 180 lb. struts on our 69 Barracuda.