Hatch Strut Ball-Joint won't come off(solved)

DarthevoDarthevo New Wagonist
in Bodywork & Cosmetic Modifications
Hi Guys,

Need to reach out to the community to get some answers on replacing the gas struts for the rear hatch. I got an item from Ebay which replacement gas struts. The problem is when I can't get the ball joint off the lower portion of the strut. This is kind of important because without this I have no where to mount the new gas strut. After reading and doing some research I hear that this is possibly by design and the ball joint is captive (permanently in the strut assembly (see pics below).

Basically I'm wondering what other people are doing to get this resolved. New part? Cut out the ball joint? Any tips on work around items would be greatly appreciated. Cheers.

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Comments

  • wyld kardz ee2wyld kardz ee2 Senior Wagonist
    Usually they come with replacements that should be in the shock package sleeve.I take it yours did not.the replacement swivel/bolt my be a little different.
  • simplyhondasimplyhonda Council Member
    Most replacements come with a little lock pin that holds them around the ball - and like stated above, new balls. I ran into this on my CRX. I think the factory ones are pressed on. You may be able to press them out if you have access to such equipment. If you end up needing an extra set of balls... :lol: let me know. I have some extras in my parts stash
  • ppruepprue Wagonist
    See if the whole assembly will screw off the end of the strut. I bought some for another vehicle that did that. Probably won't help much if your new ones aren't threaded.
  • 3rd4ce3rd4ce Council Member
    Hey Guys this is the set I purchased & have on my wagon .... it came with all new parts unlike the 3 other sets i had purchased from parts stores.. the set that was on my wagon didnt come apart in anyway... its my thought that like the front corner lights these rear hatch struts are ONLY WAGON specific..

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2-HATCH-LIFT-SUPPORT-ARMS-88-89-90-91-HONDA-CIVIC-WAGON-/190468864145?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2c58d43891
  • DarthevoDarthevo New Wagonist
    ^That's looking like the exact pair I bought. Yes, same like you, mine old struts don't come apart in anyway. Unfortunately the eBay part did not come with a ball joint. So I'm assuming I need to get a new one or re-use the old one (read above about the old one not coming apart).

    Anyone know what will work and where to get it if I go the new route? SimplyHonda I'm down to take you up on your offer sir. Just looking to not have to hold up my hatch anymore (as I have one strut out I can only access it while holding it up.)
  • simplyhondasimplyhonda Council Member
    Just let me know. I'll take $5 for a set mainly just to cover shipping.
  • DarthevoDarthevo New Wagonist
    My epic failure guys they were in a separate package inside the sleeve. Got tucked into a place thats not visible through the plastic. All is done and my baby has the new struts on. Cheers to all that replied.
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