Liftgate struts, 1st version vs 2nd version

mikez71 · May 24, 2026

Looks the the first version is ~24 long extended, 126lbs of force.
Second version is 24.6" extended, and 150lbs of force..

My truck came with the first version.. It's so weak (worn out) that when I let go of the gate halfway, it slams shut..
So I ordered the second version.. Hoping it will fit/work without issue..

strutaeng · May 24, 2026

Is this for the main liftgate? I replaced it on my 06, and must have gotten the second type. It's now TOO stiff, and pretty sure I'm like an average dude. OR I'm much weaker than I think. Lol

My 04 is much easier to close, although i bet those are worn out. I had actually thought about swapping just one on each truck, to see if that kinda equalizes/balances each liftgate? IDK

mikez71 · May 24, 2026

Yep the main liftgate..
Dang, I don't want it to be difficult..

But I figured they must have revised it for a reason?
(Also, the extra 2/3 inch might raise it a little bit more...)

mikez71 · Jun 3, 2026

Installed the 2nd version struts.. When removing the old ones, popping one side off dropped the liftgate, be careful!
2nd version is a little strong.. Using the internal handstrap feels like you might rip it off.. Otherwise it's not too bad pulling it down.

Opening the lifgate, once it get's past a certain point, it does go up a little quick.
Don't stand too close you might receive an uppercut if you aren't expecting it..

The good thing is one strut will hold the liftgate up no problem.
You don't get anymore range I don't think, the hinge must bottom out.
Right side maybe free-er, I had to compress the left one just a little bit to connect it.

Not too bad, but I probably would prefer 1st version.

strutaeng · Jun 3, 2026

Did you experiment/try with one-of-each strut?

Yeah, I don't use the strap, but grab the sheetmetal to close it. Probably why it's a bit harder then? I mean, it's not horrible, but for my wife it may be too much since she's also shorter. She doesn't daily drive the Suburbans, just on the rare occasion if our minivan is down. Our other family hauler is an Express passenger van and that has like some barn doors.

I also realized when I replaced mine, that the darn liftgate is darn HEAVY!

Doubeleive · Jun 3, 2026

You short people need that strap, I took it off and tossed it, always in my face or in the way
the gmt900's are around 1~2" shorter so now the corner edge is a deadly weapon

mikez71 · Jun 3, 2026

I figure the strap maybe good if I'm camping in the back and want to close it from inside.
But I usually grab the edge of liftgate.
It's not too bad up top or down low, but it's a struggle to close with one hand in the mid range.

Totally forgot, I don't have liftglass installed! :Boo:

That might help a little.. Will update with how much difference that makes after I finish painting back edge of roof..

mikez71 · Jun 6, 2026

OK, with liftglass installed, 2nd version is not bad at all. No regrets.
1st version might be better, but the amount of tension in 2nd version seems right to me.
I went with stabilus brand. So far so good.

Liftgate struts, 1st version vs 2nd version

mikez71

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strutaeng

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mikez71

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mikez71

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strutaeng

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Doubeleive

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