Hatch-lift gas-springs

[LX470Pilot]

Been having trouble, since I got it really, with the rear hatch not opening fully on its own.

Wondering if this is a common issue; and if anybody's bothered with fixing it, where the parts came from, and what pressure you used.

It wouldn't be such a big deal if I left the truck on Normal or High, but I'm 5'11", and my girlfriend is about 5'1" - she doesn't like falling to the ground getting out of the thing, and when it's Low, the hatch is right at forehead level.

Thanks,

-LX Pilot

 

[Makakio]

Here's an idea I posted a long time ago regarding the gas-charged lifters on my wife's 4Runner hatch (also weak). It a redirect to the 4Runner.org site:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?threadid=14427

 

[100 TD]

In OZ you can get them regassed for about $30AUD each, I'm sure someone there does them as well.(probably in the 4 runner thread) Also there are a lot of aftermarket suppliers, but you have to make sure you get the correct ones with the correct pressure, and you need to change both at once, not just the lame one.
Definitely worth doing so one does not scalp oneself!

 

[hbsseller]

Did this last night

I just happened to do this last night. You can get the parts here:

http://www.autopartsbylou.com/auto-parts-by-lou-about-us.php

They worked perfect. Make sure not to scratch your paint when you are unscrewing the ball joint.

Took about 10 minutes in total (half of that was cleaning my hands).

 

[1loudLX]

LX470
http://www.autopartsbylou.com/auto-...ake=LEXUS&model=LX470&year=2000&type=Liftgate

Land Cruiser
http://www.autopartsbylou.com/auto-...TA&model=Land Cruiser&year=2000&type=Liftgate

I doubt there is any difference but those are the tailgate support links

 

[LX470Pilot]

Excellent!

Thanks for those links, both of you.

I was gonna take one off and go to OSH or something looking for a replacement - but this'll be much better.

-LX Pilot