on the body end of the strut,
it sits on a pin, and it's held on there by an 'e' shaped circlip.  Pry that
off with a small screw driver, trying not to loose it.

once that end is off, I just use the strut itself like a lever.........and
pivot it outward until it pops off the 'rubber socket end.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Eric Lopez" <platypusofdoom@YAHOO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, July 31, 2009 11:25 AM
Subject: How do you remove the struts from the hatch of a Vanagon?

> I'm trying to remove the two struts off the hatch of my Vanagon and I'm
> darned if I can figure out how. I managed to remove the end with the
> rubber socket and the clip, it's the OTHER end I'm trying to remove. I've
> pushed, pulled and lifted in every direction. I see no nuts, sockets,
> bolts, or otherwise removable parts. What's the secret to getting this
> thing off? I have an '84 Vanagon with what appears to be stock struts if
> that makes a difference.
>
> Thanks,
> -Eric