Not what you're thinking... I'm thinking of adding weight to the rear hatch specifically recovery gear. Thinking pick axe, and short D-handle shovel. I'm thinking this added weight will be too much for the stock hatch lift struts. anyone know what the weight rating it for the stock ones or maybe another vehicle with stronger lift struts to pickup?

 

Usually you upgrade the bumper to add a swing out bracket to hold gear. I've never seen anything but regular replacement struts for the rear gate. Also a good option is a roof rack, attach those items on the side.

 

Ever seen a explorer with a bad hatch strut? Usually don't. I believe 97 thru 02. Lot more stronger but are about two inches shorter I got my from the jy about two years ago and are still holding strong.

 

Struts are rated in PSI.
The problem with the hatch is, the 10mm ball studs on chassis and door are the weak point, mounted in thin sheetmetal. Hinges are also not very strong.

 

I was thinking the same. Not saying a junkyard swap wouldn't work, just thinking if you are wheeling hard enough to need recovery gear it's time for a real roof rack. A shovel and a pick don't weigh much but I would add a hi lift jack to the list. Mine is locked on my roof rack when I need it. Also for inside mount I've seen guys do some cool racks around the rear side windows. Better security.

 

I welded a rack on each side of cargo area, over windows. Keep a small shovel and ax secured to passenger side, bottom of window. Still have visibility out window. Driver side does not need visibility so I keep more stuff there.
Heavy stuff goes under false floor or under rear seat, including high-lift mechanism.

 

They have some really heavy duty ones at the lumber yard. You just have to cut them to fit

 

To much weight on a rear hatch and my guess it will not hold up to the chore and break something. Have you considered one of the kits like the "Hi-Lift" one in the yellow bag that has a shovel, axe, hoe, etc. with a steel handle that fits them all. It is very compact and stores well I have one in the cargo area but has been seldom used.


What I use most for cutting on the trail is a 14" Chain Saw I carry in the roof rack for trees across the trail/firewood or whatever. It saves a lot of work over using a saw or axe and time.


IMHO your best bet now would be a roof rack for your tools and Hi-Lift Jack recovery tool.

 

Nothing extreme for added weight. just 2 items attached with quick grips. 48" Farm jack is getting mounted under the rear seat. I do have a roof rack was planning on mounting my spare up top maybe mounts for 2 jerry cans as well. I don't like mounting too much stuff outside due to things growing legs.

I do like the window rack idea but would be looking at more tie down gear and recovery straps on the window racks.