Body & Frame: Windows: Interior/Exterior: DECKLID/Hatch/Liftgate/Tailgate: Support-Strut: Removal

Fig 1: Support Cylinder Removal

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - BALL SOCKET

2 - RETAINING CLIP

3 - FLAT BLADED TOOL

4 - BALL STUD

WARNING: Do not remove the liftgate support rods with the liftgate closed. The support rod pistons are operated by high pressure gas and could cause personal injury and/or vehicle damage if they are removed with the pistons compressed (liftgate closed). Once removed, do not attempt to disassemble or repair the support rods.

1. Open the liftgate and support.
2. Using a small flat bladed tool (3), or equivalent, release the retaining clips (2) while pulling the ball socket (1) away from the ball stud (4).
   Fig 2: Support Cylinder Retaining Clip

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

   1 - RETAINING CLIP

   2 - BALL SOCKET

   3 - BALL STUD

   NOTE: Lift the clips (1) only enough to release the ball studs (3).
   Fig 3: Support Cylinders

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
3. Remove the support cylinder (2) from the upper (1) and lower (3) ball studs.