On Wed, 28 Apr 2004, Jason Kirk wrote:

> I need a pair myself. Currently using a pair of vise grip pliers on the
> metal part of the shaft to hold the entire weight of the hatch. Where did
> you get them and how much should I expect to pay?

I got them from The Bus Depot.  I don't remember how much they cost,
because I actually bought them last year but didn't get around to
installing them 'till now.  I don't recall them being incredibly
expensive.  Some local auto parts stores stock them, too, but I had some
other stuff I was ordering from the Bus Depot so I just threw them into
the order.

I propped the hatch with a stick while I replaced the struts.  You *need*
to do this because the hatch is really heavy.  Even after you get the
first good strut on, it won't be enough to hold the hatch up when you
remove the other bad one.  I was surprised when I took off the second bad
strut, after replacing the first one, and the hatch dropped onto the
stick I'd positioned.  Don't use the pliar trick on a good strut because
it will nick the shaft and ruin the seal.

David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'86 Volvo 240DL wagon
'82 VW Vanagon Westfalia Diesel