Sup guys, I have a 1988 Jeep Cherokee Limited. Recently I just noticed when I open the hatch it doesn't stay up anymore. Is there anyway to check exactly which side is not keeping it up? And is this an easy swap out? Thanks!

 

I had the same problem, I just replaced one side for now and it stays up fine.. takes less then 10 mins to do.

 

Installing new hatch struts is very simple and only takes a few minutes. The best way to find out which one is bad is to replace one side and see if fixes the problem. If not, then reinstall the old one and swap the other side. If this still does not help then replace them both. It takes both struts being in good condition to hold the hatch up due to its weight.

 

Thanks for the post...where's a good place to get replacements??

 

I would do both, I did and what a difference!

 

Thanks for the quick responses guys! I think I will do both seeing that they're only $10 a piece.

 

You can always try a junkyard. I think first and second gen XJs struts are diff though.

 

I have the same problem! I don't want to replace anything because my hatch stays open when it's warmer out. Any quick fixes for the winter?

 

Use a stick to prop it open?

Just get some new lift strut things...

what's the "proper" name for those?

 

Hatch Strut maybe?
On my other Jeep my brother just gave me a clamp to put underneath the hydraulics..but that was such a pain! I don't know I'd use a stick...
I'm only ever in the back of my Jeep to get cleaning stuff out, but it's such a pain to either hold the hatch up or have to push it off my back..and I don't really want to replace them because it works fine for about 8 months out of the year

 

If they don't work when its cold then eventually they won't work at all.

If it only works 8 months out of 12, then it doesn't really work does it?

I mean its not expensive or hard to do. Think of it, getting in the back of your Jeep, hassle free. No hatch smacking you in the back.

 

Vice grips.

 

X2.....^

 

www.rockauto.com

Open the parts catalog -> Jeep -> 1988 -> Cherokee -> 4.0L -> Body - Exterior -> Lift Support

Take your pick from those options. I suggest the Monroe's. Just replace both, they're cheap.

 

Guys/Gals, its a matter of 25 bucks to have a working hatch that doesn't fall on you and is actually accessible. Just fix it.