Thread: Aftermarket hatch struts?

Even with the replacement struts installed it still only pops ok. If the driver door is closed (like after you get out on your way to the hatch) sometimes it re-catches the hatch. The factory slots for the catch on the chassis side were already adjusted fully down.

In theory the plan is to get a remote popping unit from a Maxima, and install better hatch struts. This way one could pop it remotely with an arm full of groceries and it will extend fully or at least half way.

Part of the problem is obviously the fierce cold in the area.

Does anyone have a good set-up to share?

LOL,,, got my replacements from ebay,, and your right they won't work unless the temp outside is above 65 degrees..

vise grips to the rescue

,, I'd rather use a broom stick,, LOL

You could get new rubber bumper thingy's (the one's that attach to the bottom side of the hatch). That would give it a nice Pop! when you pull the lever. Maybe you could even shim the old ones. Look in the corners of RBI's hatch pic above, and you'll see the parts I'm talking about...

Subscribing, I'm having the same issues. If I want to open my hatch, I have to climb in the back seat, wrap a scarf or rope around the lever, pull the lever while still seated in the rear of the car, then push up on the hatch.

My keyhole no longer works in the hatch so this is the ritual I go through. (sigh)

Is there a way to adjust the slack out of the cable itself?

Also could hatch struts from another heavier model be installed? The S13 240sx for instance.

I have also read that replacing the rubber liner on the body will help increase the tension.

For the record I installed the Stabilis SG325004. I put the little ball thing in the lower hole. Would placing it in the upper hole generate more fore when its popped?

Upper hole has less leverage than the lower hole.

^ Broom stick is a bad idea - think beheading.

That's what I thought but I'm just putting it out there. I had a stick on it for one day. It didn't even hold while I was replacing the struts.

Yeah, i have had the hatch fall on my back many a times it doesnt feel very good. On a side note i was having the same problem with mine not wanting to pop open, i fixed my lock by bending the clip that holds it in place so it holds the lock good and flush. My clip wasnt even attached when i took the rear end appart it was laying in the bottom of the spare tire well.

Also any weight reduction seems to help with the hatch problem, i shaved the wiper when i painted the car and it lightened the hatch a bit. It doesnt seem to fall down anymore, and pops great after doing the lock clip and removing the wiper and motor.