How to Change an Astro Trunk Strut

Chevrolet produced the Astro van for many years, and over those years they changed the rear section of the van to accommodate different needs. One change was a barn-door style set of doors at the bottom, and a large hatch across the top. The hatch is supported using a pair of struts, and when they go out, the hatch becomes very difficult to lift. Fortunately, replacing them is pretty straightforward, and just requires the help of an assistant.

Instructions

1

Open the hatch. If necessary, have your assistant hold the hatch in the air. Remove the clip on the hatch side of the strut using the flat-head screwdriver, then pull it off the hatch.

2

Unbolt the other end of the strut from the chassis of the Astro van using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Set your assistant so he is holding up the hatch and completely supporting its weight. Pull the strut off the trunk.

3

Bolt the replacement strut to the chassis using the ratchet. Then push the other end of the strut onto the mount on the hatch, and push the clip in place on the strut to lock it in place. If necessary, repeat steps 1-3 for the remaining strut.