97 Astro rear hatch

I have a 97 Astro van. The rear hatch on the Dutch Doors will not stay open.

Replace the hatch cylinders. They're available at most auto parts stores.

Thanks. It probably is the cylinders. The thing is that 1 day they worked with no loss apparent and the next day they didn't work at all. Is there also an electricial possibility?

They are gas charged, similar to shock absorbers. They are strictly mechanical, not electrical.

Last set I bought- I got off Ebay- sent right to my door- took about 5 minutes a side for each one to replace- piece of cake- and the wife stops complaining!!

They are gas charged, similar to shock absorbers. They are strictly mechanical, not electrical.

What are the electrical wires coming out of my left cylinder for?

The wires routed through the cylinders are for the rear glass defroster.

I would have said they are for the dome light switch - like mine is