PETDOC

In my 2000 RX 300 the pivot bolt in the upper attachment of the hatch strut pulled out. It appears to have been pressed in as an integral part of the strut assembly and not a replacable item, necessitating the purchase of a new strut. The existing strut works fine so I was going to try and find a remedy using a replacable bolt. Has anyone done this? If so can you tell me what combination of bolts, nuts, spacers, etc... you used?

salimshah

I assume the ball has fallen out of the socket ....

It is a pivot point too .. aka ball and socket joint. The replacement struts typically have a sliding metal trap (that ensures the ball does not pop out). You can try using strong rubber-bands to keep the ball inside the socket .. but it would look bad and exposed to heat it will not last long.

Although you may be tempted to fix the old one, I would suggest replace it. If it is the fixed end of the ball piece, you can thread that back in ... if needed you can put a drop of "BLUE" locktite (should not be needed).

Another reason to replace it is .. by accident if the thing pops out and you dont look for the position of the strut, you may cause damage to the hatch or the body or both.

Salim

PETDOC

The lower attachment is a ball and socket joint and it is fine. It is the upper attachment, bolt with plastic gasket and slightly flared end, that has pulled out.

PETDOC

Sanded everything down and cleaned with acetone before pushing pivot bolt back through the point of attachment and then applied JB Weld. It currently is holding, but if it breaks I'll go to muffler shop and have them tack weld it, which should outlive the strut's functional life.
When picking up parts for 60,000 mile maintenance at Lexus dealer I told the parts clerk about my strut and he indicated it was a common problem. Very bad design by Lexus!