I recently saw somewhere an easy fix using pvc pipe cut to fit.  When you
lift the hatch, it catches.  To lower you just tap it and the larger part of
the strut slides in the pvc and it all fits where the struts are supposed
to.

I don't remember where I saw it, but maybe somebody on the list knows.

Good luck, I use a long stick when I'm at home, or one of my kids away from
home!

Daryl Densford
Blue '90 GL in NY