when I got my 740T wagon a few years ago, I put new tailgate struts on it as the originals had no pookah left.

the other day, wtf, one of the 'new' struts, 4 years old, had blown its guts. the night before that it was working fine. mild weather.. ordered a new set, expect them in tomorrow (Stabilus SG215001). At only $16 each (from amazon), good thing they are cheap, but geez, I'd expect more than 4 years out of them ?!?

 

interesting... the ones I put in 4 years ago were made in Mexico, the new ones are made in USA. both Stabilus brand, same PN... I guess at $16 each its hard to complain.

 

I just replaced mine on my '92 740 wagon .. got mine from Napa Auto Parts. cost $40 for the pair. i expect them to last throughout my lifetime anyways.
sometimes cheap price means cheap product. these struts do wear out over time but should last longer than 4 years.

 

Sachs Stabilus is about the only brand I've seen of these.

 

i Checked my receipt ... i paid $48.58 for the pair. (worth it to me)
brand name: BALKAMP "TURBOLIFT" Tailgate Lift Support System.
Napa Auto Parts Number is: 819-5653

 

Balkamp is a Napa house brand, I wouldn't be a little surprised to find those are rebranded Stabilus made by Sachs.