Removal Procedure
Caution: When a lift gate hold open device is being removed or installed, provide
alternate support to avoid the possibility of damage to the vehicle or personal
injury.
- Open and support the liftgate.
 
- Remove the tail lamps. Refer to 
Tail Lamp Replacement 
 in Lighting Systems.
 
Notice: Apply pressure only at the end of the liftgate/hood
assist rod that you are removing or attaching. Do NOT apply pressure to the middle
of the rod because damage or bending will result.
- Lift up the snap ring retainer on the bottom of the assist rod struts using
a small  flat-bladed tool.
 
- Remove the bottom of the strut from the ball stud on the body.
 
- Lift up on the snap ring
at the top of the strut using a small flat-bladed tool.
 
- Remove the top of the strut from the ball stud.
 
- Remove the strut from the vehicle.
 
Installation Procedure
Important: The top of the liftgate strut is marked with the word "TOP" and
an up-arrow.
- Align the top of the strut
with the ball stud on the liftgate.
 
- Press on the top of the strut to install onto the ball stud.
 
- Align the bottom of the
strut to the ball stud on the body.
 
- Press on the bottom of the strut to install onto the ball stud.
 
- Install the tail lamps. Refer to 
Tail Lamp Replacement 
 in Lighting Systems.
 
- Remove the support, and close the liftgate.