GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2002 🢒 Montana 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Body Rear End 🢒 Liftgate Strut Replacement

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.

  1. Open and support the liftgate.
  2. Remove the tail lamps. Refer to Tail Lamp Replacement in Lighting Systems.

    3. Object Number: 313603 Size: SH

    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.

  3. Lift up the snap ring retainer on the bottom of the assist rod struts using a small flat-bladed tool.
  4. Remove the bottom of the strut from the ball stud on the body.

    5. Object Number: 313605 Size: SH
  5. Lift up on the snap ring at the top of the strut using a small flat-bladed tool.
  6. Remove the top of the strut from the ball stud.
  7. 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.


    Object Number: 313605 Size: SH
  1. Align the top of the strut with the ball stud on the liftgate.
  2. Press on the top of the strut to install onto the ball stud.

    3. Object Number: 313603 Size: SH
  3. Align the bottom of the strut to the ball stud on the body.
  4. Press on the bottom of the strut to install onto the ball stud.
  5. Install the tail lamps. Refer to Tail Lamp Replacement in Lighting Systems.
  6. Remove the support, and close the liftgate.