Dodge Caravan lift gate struts

[Oldtom]

Good evening - I have a 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan with "saggy" lift gate struts. I have whacked my forehead for the last time and plan to change out the gas struts. The job looks pretty simple, but, I have a few questions:

Should I get Factory Mopar parts or auto store generic parts?

Any tips for doing the install? I have an 8 foot stepladder and some rope to support the lift gate.

Thank you in advance for any advice.

 

[Audios]

A small screwdriver to get the retaining clips off helps. Otherwise its 1,2,3. The aftermarkets should do fine for you, although you probably wont get 15 years out of them, they should work fine for a while. I went with cheapies for my Golf and was surprised at how stiff they are now.

 

[Chris142]

The best aftermarket ones are at pep boys.

 

[StevieC]

Originally Posted by Oldtom
Good evening - I have a 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan with "saggy" lift gate struts. I have whacked my forehead for the last time and plan to change out the gas struts. The job looks pretty simple, but, I have a few questions:

Should I get Factory Mopar parts or auto store generic parts?

Any tips for doing the install? I have an 8 foot stepladder and some rope to support the lift gate.

Thank you in advance for any advice.

It's a very easy job and the after-market ones are fine. It's a common problem as they age.

 

[MParr]

Stabilus supplies most OE lift struts.

 

[zrxkawboy]

I replaced ours a couple years ago...got em at NAPA. They're holding up fine.

 

[jetmech1]

I've gotten great service from the ones I got from Rock Auto. Saved a bunch even with shipping.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Sachs/Stabilus is a good brand

 

[Egg_Head]

Buy whatever on Amazon, even Chinese junk will last you for the life of your vehicle. Stabilus is good not sure I'd pay a premium for them for a 15 year old minivan. Lots of vids on YouTube to show you the way.