That item, for those who don't recognize it, is what's called a "split bolt connector".  It is intended for connecting two large copper electrical cables together.  Hence, it is made of solid copper or bronze or some such; there is no steel involved.  As a result, it probably won't scratch the surface of the strut plunger.  The "bolt" portion of the connector has a slot that goes all the way to the end (not especially clear in this picture), so to install you simple unscrew the nut, put the connector in place, and screw the nut back on.  To close the hood, you loosen the nut and slide the connector to the other end of the plunger.  The nut is big enough that finger-tight will serve for this job, a wrench is not necessary.

Split bolt connectors are available at Grainger or any electrical supply house, and they only cost a coupla bucks.