How do I replace the tailgate struts on my V70XC

[ke_knoke]

I'm using a stick to hold up the tailgate. Quite embarrassing.
Does anyone have instructions on how to replace the struts? There was never any sign that they were failing. Just the first time it came crashing down on my head. I guess that was the first sign they had failed.
The repair shop wants $250 to replace and the parts are only $45 of that. I can fix most things myself with a litte inside information on how to.

[flylow]

Okay just did this job in Dec. So if you have somebody to help you to hold up the tailgate that would be great, but if not keep that stick! you will need to remove the D-piller panels they are the ones with the speaker grills in them. And then you need to remove the upper rear 1/4er glass panels and then you'll see your tailgate struts. There are C-clips at each end of the strut at the balljoints that you will need to remove them and then they come right out. I found it easier to remove the upper center panel that's the one with the rear light in it. It just made removing the other panels much easier. And you don't need someone to hold the tailgate the whole time just when you remove the struts. Believe me if you have somebody to help at that point it really helps, or you can do it like I did on my back with my foot holding up the tailgate and just barely reaching the sturts!