Hi guys,

I have a 2002 that had the back door panel off for a long time. Recently had it reinstalled with new plastic fasteners. Today, it's been very cold in Chicago, around 10-15F.

When I open the back door, it will go down, the two rods that connect it to the body are not able to keep it open.

I think this is the part:

http://www.lexussouthatlantaparts.co...895049016.html

But it pains me to pay ~$200 per. Is there a way to fix it somehow? Or use an alternative piston?

Thanks!

 

These are commonly known as 'struts'.

You can get them for far less as after market. StrongArm and Stabilus are fairly popular. Buy and replace them in pairs.

I think there is a DIY floating around. Process is simple, but you may like to enlist help of friend or a long 2x4 or a step ladder of the right height.

Salim

 

Thanks for the advice Salim! I'll look into what you recommended.

How would I know I got the right type? the right length? Does it make a difference if it's gas or liquid?

Thanks,

Maor

EDIT: Bingo, I think we have a winner: http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/s...erm=strong+arm

Thanks much!

 

You are not supposed to simply toss out the old ones. Please check, there is a proper disposal process for the old strut. You are supposed to drill the stay. Make sure you use eye protection.

Salim

 

Will do, I'll ask @ Advance Auto Parts.

 

Unbelievable the difference between the old ones and the new struts! I guess I wasn't aware of how bad the original ones were, with the new ones, you just open the door a little and the struts bring it all the way up on their own. Thanks again Salim!

I just used my head to hold the door for me. Didn't have the heart to ask one of the kids to help, it's very cold and windy right now.

 

Give it few weeks and the struts will become soft.

There are some advantages in struts being too strong, but for overall safety the thing should be balanced. So watch out if you accidentally open the hatch with the RX close to the garage door or near a person standing right behind.

Salim

 

a little personal tip, I glued some foam on the inside of the garage door where the rear door would contact...and yes after I scratched my door.

 

Great tip, though my back door doesn't reach the garage door.

 

The strongarm 6102 are cheaper on amazon or ebay, a pair is about $45 shipped. I'm going to return my advance auto purchase, they said they don't match online prices.

 

Woah guys I bought mine for like $25 on ebay and I didn't have any drilling issues at all. Hint is to remove the top screws first or you'll scratch the bottom area because it slides when its resting without screws.

 

No drilling is required to install.

You should not just toss away the old ones. Proper disposal required drilling a hole to let the compressed gas/oil to leak.

Salim

 

So far loving the new struts from Advance Auto Parts. They open the door with almost no effort, and I love the tseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee sound of the gas when it operates

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-REAR-LIFTGATE-TAILGATE-DOOR-HATCH-TRUNK-LIFT-SUPPORTS-SHOCKS-STRUTS-ARM-RX-300-/191401695853?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3ARX300&hash=item2c906e1a6d&vxp=mtr
$30 bucks remove the top nuts first. Have a friend who is strong hold the trunk thing it is super heavy. Also REMOVE THE TOP NUTS first its a 10mm socket on the top and you might need a 10mm wrench to access it when the socket is too large.

 

FWIW I found a ladder makes a good support to hold up the hatch when you change the struts.