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My fix for the ever-elusive hatch struts (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter gabepari
- Start date
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Here's my box. Getting ready to install them.
Kernal said:
Yes, I ordered an extra set for the 97 for when they eventually go out.
The top hatch mount fits perfectly. But I need to take off the lower mount and cut part of the threads off from the strut ball. I temporarily shimmed it out with a stack of washers, but it causes the hatch to rub slightly against the strut body. You'll need some 5/16-18 nuts and some flat washers to do the job. I used a ratchet strap to compress the strut as its impossible to compress these while also threading bolts and supporting the hatch.
I only installed one side because its late, but it easily supports the whole hatch with a tiny bit of help from the worn out oem unit. Probably could do it on its own. So add this to the list for those ''my 80 weighs 10K lbs, how can I lighten it up?" Threads. You could save the weight of both hood struts by adding a prop rod, and only installing one rear strut 
It looks like an awesome improvement with the rear hatch. My hood struts have failed and am hoping to find something just like this but for the hood.
Any feedback on any hood struts? Advanced Auto says they have them for $25 a piece but I want more beef. I think the OG ones are too wimpy.
Any feedback on any hood struts? Advanced Auto says they have them for $25 a piece but I want more beef. I think the OG ones are too wimpy.
My rear OEM hatch struts work just fine, but I've got to do this mod just so I can stop hitting my dang head! (6'2" here!)
I don't know if it would work on a '93, but I got a prop and grommet and clip and put them in my '91. The holes and everything were already there. Here's where I got the idea from:
Operation: Hood Stick Removal
ToddD said:
I'd stay away from the autozone junk. That's twice the price of the mcmaster Carr struts and they are probably lower pressure and made in china. The struts I got were made in the usa and I couldn't compress them more than an inch or so using my full body weight (190 lbs) even though they are rated at 90LBS.
Measure your hood struts and order similar size struts from mcmaster or do the hood prop mod since It will work on all 80's.
Thanks for the pic. I'm curious as to how to pack them for air travel. I could have my brother mail them to me or take them on the plane with him. I willing to take a chance knowing they might be confiscated, but I don't want him to get in trouble and I especially don't want them things to blow up mid-air or anything.
D_A_M_N_I_T...I might just have to buy ones from Amazon. I heard they weren't so good, that's why I wanted these beefier ones, but I need something cuz mine are crap.
SHouldn't have a problem in the pressurized cabin of the plane. Just have him duct tape them to his leg and tell security they are a medical leg assist device.
Yeah, I was thinking "as long as it's pressurized" as well, but that's when TSA takes things like that because of the "potential" risk.
...And yes I have already thought about the lie-in-disguise getaway but I'm not so sure my brother would agree.
and I like the fact that:
"duct tape" = "medical leg assist device"
If TSA fell for that one...we're doomed.
Tried to place an order with mcmaster and they don't ship to Canada...aww.
just what i was looking for....thank you
It's only $16+ for each trunk lift here.
1996 Lexus Lx450 Trunk Lift Support - Sachs Clutches - TheAutoPartsShop - TheAutoPartsShop
1996 Lexus Lx450 Trunk Lift Support - Sachs Clutches - TheAutoPartsShop - TheAutoPartsShop
I just finished this mod. Thanks for sharing the idea! Aside from drilling out the posts on the hinges, all I had to do was cut about a quarter of an inch off the threads on the end of the strut that mounts to the body. I had to do this so the thread and nut would clear the inside of the hatch. Awesome!
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I did this mod last night and it worked perfectly! Thank you very much for posting the information and saving me some dough. This forum is absolutely awesome.
