lift gate struts

[bns66charger]

Replaced lift gate strut now it won't open, any idea's? My wife said she saw a wire that wasn't connected (cut), does that control the lock's. If so what is the fix other than splice,wires are probably fragile.

Thanks

Jim

[redfury]

The wire on the struts only controls the dome lights. The rear hatch is controlled by the switch, which operates the lift gate latch release solenoid.

If it won't open but you can hear the lift gate operate the latch, then the struts you installed may be too strong for her to move....there are different strengths to gas struts...I bent the hood of a car by installing the wrong ones once.

[bns66charger]

How would I know which ones are correct resistance for the van? Is there a way to open the Hatch?

Jim

[redfury]

There is usually an application guide when buying them. Did you pick them off the shelf, or have a store associate help you when you purchased them?

In regards to opening the hatch, can you push the button and hear it unlatch?

[kennysmoke]

How would I know which ones are correct resistance for the van? Is there a way to open the Hatch?

Jim

Yes it can still be opened. Remove the trim around the hatch on the inside. There are rods that connect off a pivot in the middle behind the interior handle. you should be able to grab the rod and slide it left or right and the hatch should pop.

[bns66charger]

Got the supports from Auto zone, they said they are vehicle specific for 96 Astro van (Sachs SG 130029). If someone has replaced there's in the past what type did you use. I will also try to take the trim off and open the gate that way and put old part on and see what happens.

[kennysmoke]

One of the rods probably popped off the pivot... if I remember correctly they are just held on by a cheap plastic clip.