I got tired of the rear hatch falling down and hitting my head so I replaced them with new 2x4 version. Big difference, goes up much easier and is about 2" higher then the 4x4 version. A 5'5" wife will still be able to close the hatch, EX sitting at the stock height.

Installation tips: (1) Set the clips up on the new struts before starting the job. Do not take the little metal clip all the way off, just move them towards the end into the slot. (2) You will have to remove both struts to get the hatch up high enough to install the new struts.

Note: One strut will not hold the hatch up, doh

 

Fully agree Capt, a nice upgrade.

 

I gotta get round to doing this mod.

 

Price and source for the liftgate struts?

 

Ford Dealership
YC3Z 78406A10 AA (2X4) fits (4x4)
List $54.17 each
Paid $40.00 each +Tax

 

Just did mine this past week, used the 2WD version on my 2000 Ex 4x4. Hatch lifts higher (yay!) but still in reach for 5'9" me. Bought the struts here: Lift Supports

For about $20 each. As noted, you have to take both struts off before you can lift the hatch high enough to put the new ones on, and that thing is HEAVY. I propped it up with a 2x4.

 

Bought the 2WD versions from NAPA. Don't remember the price but they weren't that much. The increased travel is a big plus. I highly advise it.

The process isn't difficult though I did have to bang a bit on the new ones to get them on even with the clip pulled back. This may just be a factor with the NAPA models as the OEM weren't hard to remove. The job can be done by one person but adding a helper to hold the hatch open makes things much easier.

You'll need a thin flat head screwdriver to slide the locking clips back. Otherwise no tools required.

 

Cheaper here 2 Rear Window Lift Supports 2WD 4139 Support Strut Prop | eBay

 

thats crazy how there is a different strut for 4x2 and 4x4 lol

i guess it all boils down to the stock ride hight and soccer mom utility

 

Just ordered a set for my 2003 V10 Ex, it will be nice to not hit my head.

 

Already received my new 4X2 lift supports from autopartsbylou and got them installed tonight. The instructions were very easy to follow, but I did have to use a bit of elbow grease to get them on, but wow, what a great mod! If you have a 4X4, you need to do this, it is great.

 

Dragging up an old thread... I used Lou's High Quality Automotive | Marine | Industrial Lift Supports for new struts for the 1.5" additional in the back and new struts for the hood. What a GREAT upgrade for $60. Got them through his eBay store.

Highly recommend!!

 

I didn't notice any difference in height when I replaced my lift shocks with 2wd lift shocks.

 

I specifically ordered the 1.5" increased height struts. I'm already lifted and he lift gate is super high now. No worrying about hitting my head anymore! I can still close it with ease, but I can see the difference.

Search eBay for

PM2019EX

to see the difference.

 

My only gripe with the aftermarket ones I put on is when opening the gate, it slams up now. The OEM struts went up fast but right at the end of travel slowed down. Now the gate flys up and slams open. Better than hitting my head on it I guess.