97 Astro rear hatch

[TENKEM]

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

[old_master]

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

[TENKEM]

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?

[old_master]

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

[brcidd]

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!!

[leatherman]

Originally Posted by old_master

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?

[old_master]

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

[brcidd]

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