tailgate strut replacement - can't get new ones back on
 

I'm in the process of changing my tailgate struts. I was able to get the old ones off with no problem at all, but am not having any luck putting the new ones on. I've been trying to pry them on using a few different screwdrivers, but haven't had any luck so far. Also tried using a pry bar with no luck. I bought the aftermarket struts instead of the oem ones. Not sure if that's causing the problem.

Does anyone have any tips for how to pop these back in?

Thanks

RE: tailgate strut replacement - can't get new ones back on
 

The set I did the other day I used a pair of Channel locks and squeezed them on.
Hopefully that will work for you.

RE: tailgate strut replacement - can't get new ones back on
 

tried it w/ channel locks and still didn't have any luck. Then i realized that there is a little pin that slides through the socket part of the ball/socket joint. I'm guessign this is for keeping it from popping loose after installation. My old struts did not have this pin, but did have a hole where it looked like it should be.

I pulled this out on the new ones and it poped right on by hand. after that i put the pin back in. Doe the OEM struts have this ping?

Another question though. I ended up taking off the bracket holding the ball to the frame (front of strut). I noticed that the bracket is slotted to allow it to move ~1/4-1/2". i marked this before taking it off, but to get the new strut on i had to loosen the bracket and slide it forward so the rear of the strut would align. Is it critical that the front bracket is exactly where is was before, or is it ok if it shefted forward ~1/4"?

Thanks

RE: tailgate strut replacement - can't get new ones back on
 

I think it will be ok.

Or leave the screw loose and have someone lift the gate and see if it goes back to the same spot.