My '85 came with heavy duty hatch struts.
Even tho I've got to put my *whole weight* on the hatch
to shut it, I trust them & wouldn't change for lighter ones.

Besides, I seldom find I need to use the rear hatch; when
traveling, I use the space behind the pull-down seat as my
storage space for duffle bags, bedding, books, etc.  I like to
pack it in there & not worry about it tumbling out when I
open the back hatch.

Of course, now that I've considered Pensioner's insto-presto
Vanagon shower stall off the back hatch, I may reconsider!

Phaedra
'85 Wolfsburg Westy Basecamp