How to replace 01 V70 Tailgate Struts?

michael_century21 · Post by **michael_century21** » 13 Jan 2011, 12:52

Hello,
Any advice on how to replace the tailgate struts on an 01 V70 2.4 Turbo? Any special tools required.
Struts are leaking and the tailgate doesn't stay up anymore on its own.
Is this an average DIY weekend project or better left for a dealer, etc.
Thanks for the input.
-M

Post by **jimmy57** » 15 Jan 2011, 21:51

The job is best with two people. The tailgate has to be held up while the cylinder is being changed.
The cover at rear of roof has to be removed and the trim at left and right of headliner at rear. The rear panel where dome lamp is located requires removal of dome lamp in order to get to a screw that is behind the lens.
The cylinders have a clip at each end that has to pried away. It is a straight pin with a C chaped portion at 90 degrees to the straight section. Look at new ones and it makes what I am saying apparent. You have to remove those clips on on cylinders to put them on.
The ends have a circlip in them so they have to be pried off each end once the clip is removed and tapped or pressed on with water pump/slip joint pliers. The cylinders are oriented horizontal in roof if you haven't already discovered that.
The cylinders are S T R O N G ! The ones that will not hold up tailgate are STRONG.

michael_century21 · Post by **michael_century21** » 16 Jan 2011, 20:12

Thanks for the tips. I'll give it a shot and let you know how it goes.

Post by **billofdurham** » 17 Jan 2011, 12:30

This thread shows how to do it on an 850. The procedure for the V70 is identical. If you don't have two people you can replace one with a length of 2 x 1 timber.

Bill.