McMaster Carr has gas springs. 

 

9416K195 (120 pounds) or 9416K96 (130 pounds). 

Eyelets 9416K84 and socket ends 9416K88. 

 

These are not damped and will lift the hatch with authority. 

 

Regarding the factory hatch struts, the left one is different. It is not necessarily weaker but is of higher friction allowing the hatch to stay in a not fully raised position. These struts are available in many different configurations. On my motor home many of the springs actually have two positions. The doors open part way so that they stay below the slide out rooms when they are out. 

 

Dennis

 

From: Harry Hoffman [mailto:hhoffman@ip-solutions.net] 
Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2012 7:34 PM
To: Dennis Haynes
Subject: RE: Rear hatch struts - heavy duty

 

Thanks, Dennis!

Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@hotmail.com> wrote:

McMaster Carr. I'll send part numbers later.

Dennis
Who can't type or spell on this Windows Phone!

  _____  

From: Harry Hoffman
Sent: 11/20/2012 6:55 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Rear hatch struts  - heavy duty

Hi All,
Bus Depot offers a set of heavy duty rear struts. They supposedly can hold open the hatch even with a bike rack and bikes.
Unfortunately they are on back order for 2-3 months.
 Anyone know a alternate vendor?

Cheers,
 Harry