First, I want to introduce myself to you guys. My name is David from College Station, TX. I bought a 73 240 about 6 months and decided to start a new hobby. I've been lurking in the background for about a month or so up until now. I've learned a lot reading the various posts on the site - it's been very helpful, thanks!

I'm learning as I go and I've hit my first (of many, I'm sure) bump in the road. I'm having difficulty figuring out how the rear hatch strut is attached to the car. It was missing from the car when I bought it. I've bought a replacement (attached) but cannot figure out how to attach it. I've read earlier posts, but I'm still lost. Seems like I need some bracket. Can someone give me some advice and/or post a picture?

Thanks in advance.

David,

From the picture you've posted, the top of the strut connects to the inside of the hatch with two bolts. The lower section connects to a bracket on the left side of the hatch opening with a single bolt and nut.

In your picture, it appears the lower bracket is already attached to the strut. It's supposed to be welded to the inner hatch on the cars body.

Hope this helps, I can post some pictures tomorrow unless someone beats me to it.

Bruce

Thanks. However, the the non-hatch end of the strut appears that it is supposed to be bolted to something else. The position of it, doesn't seem to align with anything on the car

The bracket on the bottom of your strut bolts to a similar shaped tab on the body of the car. It should be on the left side, about halfway up the opening. It may have been removed or broken off of your car.

The top end of the strut bolts to a bracket that bolts to the body. Some one has probably taken it off. I know mine is in a box right now or I would post a picture of it.

Heres it mounted on a 71.

Here it is without from a 72, maybe this bracket that is welded to the body is broke off.

Look to the left soon as you open the hatch. If the bracket is broke off, you may not see it because the panel is covering it up.

Anybody have one they'd be willing to sell me? Or an idea as to where to find one?

Welcome to the forum.

It looks like mine busted off at some point, and the PO bolted it back in. He didn't do a very good job of it either.