I have sent copies of the instructions on how to make these PVC hatch
supports to those list members who asked on several occasions, and will
take this opportunity to offer to email them to all who ask by pmail
before noon tomorrow.  These instructions, with a picture of it
installed, were developed by Karl Bloss and posted on his website which
no longer exists several years ago.   They are in an Adobe .pdf file.

Of course, as Ed says if you want to do it yourself, you have to drive
to Home Despot or a similar store, buy the 8 foot 3/4" PVC pipe for
about a $1.50, measure the 8 3/16" piece, cut it, and then figure out
what to do with the remaining 7+ feet of pipe.  And to duplicate what he
is offering you would also have to buy the paint if you didn't have some
sitting around and paint them.  I have made two from my piece.

To be honest, my immediate reaction to Ed selling these was a bit
negative, but if they are only sold for a couple of bucks, then it is
reasonable.  With a starting price of $0.99 and $3.00 shipping, he is
willing to practically give them away.   Making some extras, painting
them black to blend in (which I haven't done on either van that had it
and think is a nice touch), and selling them cheap is reasonable and it
helps to dispose of the extra tubing in a useful manner.  For $4 - 6
total with shipping it might be better than taking the time to make your
own.  It is probably cheaper than your actual costs if you figure in
transportation to and from the store.  Plus, what is your time worth to
you?

These things work very well, have been using it on one van or the other
for about 4 years.  It is better if your struts have some gas left and
slow the fall of the hatch somewhat.  Sure beats the broomstick
method.   New working struts are better, however.

Just my $.02.

Sam

--
Sam Walters
Baltimore, MD

89 Syncro GL
85 Westy Weekender

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