7racer

I am finally gettin around to installing the 99spec hatch struts that are suppose to hold the hatch up with the 99spec wing much better.

The removal is easy, just two 12mm bolts and one for the ball stud.

The problem is that it is impossible to release the ball stud from the stock struts.
(unless someone has a trick)

It seems like the way to go is to order two ball studs. However, looking in the parts fiche, there isn't the p/n listed for it. Does anyone have it off hand who has replaced the struts?

If not I will get it on Monday when the local Mazda opens.

Thanks.

rotarypower101

iTrader: (1)

The number I got from Ray is B499-62-625 Stud bin049D price $6.19

HTH

TheCrazyAZN

iTrader: (2)

You sure they dont just kinda unbolt? I remember the base of the ball has a 10mm hex on it... Figured it might just unbolt out?

adam c

iTrader: (2)

I replaced my struts a couple of years ago. The studs are not supposed to come out. I was told that you cannot buy the studs alone, that they only come with a new set of struts.

If you want studs, I suggest that you cut open the old strut, and remove the old ones.

7racer

that's strange then...the 99spec struts are only struts without the ball stud. On the end of the new struts you can see the "spring" that holds the ball into place. I double checked the box and no ball stud from the OEM box from Mazda.

I know on the parts fische that it is listed as including the ball stud and strut....I called the parts guy at the local mazda and the above posted p/n does seem to work.......I'll post an update later.

adam c

iTrader: (2)

The studs are supposed to come in the box with the struts. You are supposed to bolt the studs onto the car, and then pop the struts onto the ball. They are designed to pop on, and not come off.

7racer

Yea,

I double checked the box and definitely no studs....

RotorMotor

iTrader: (5)

did you get some in ramys GB? im in the same boat... i was hopin they would come with the struts. there MUST be a way to remove the existing ones so they can be reused, no?

7racer

probably...but getting that spring to pop in is a PITA...I figure it would be easier on the knuckles if I just buy the studs.

ans yep...they are the Ramy ones.

7racer

Huy!!

yea, they do unbolt....but its tough to release the ball stud (bolt) from the strut....it's held in place by a spring.....

RotorMotor

iTrader: (5)

did you get some in ramys GB? im in the same boat... i was hopin they would come with the struts. there MUST be a way to remove the existing ones so they can be reused, no?

rotarypower101

iTrader: (1)

Save yourself the time and effort and just buy new ones!

I tried diligently to get those little boogers out and they just wouldn’t pop out for all my effort!

12 bucks and your down the road, plus it will give you a chance to order some of those little parts you have been neglecting to replace.

7racer

I agree....and they are ordered.

Thanks for the part number.

RotorMotor

iTrader: (5)

yeah, thats exactly what i DONT need haha. you should see my list gotta love the FD

7racer

Ok just got done installing this. The part numbers supplied by rotorpower101 are correct. This is so much easier. Just install the struts and pop them into the new ball studs.

Took all of 5 mins.

Also, the "99spec" struts are the real deal. Pull the hatch release and the hatch pops instantly....with the old struts, I had to help them open. HAPPY HAPPY

RotorMotor

iTrader: (5)

so the hatch now opens to full open *on its OWN* once the trunk is popped? if so im really excited to get these installed hah

7racer

yes it does....

LOL simply pleasures

rotarypower101

iTrader: (1)

Isn’t that sorta sad, I felt exactly the same way…..why oh why did I live so long without sending Rammy a 10 second long PM and basking in the glory that is a working hatch with 99 spec rear spoiler???!!!

Thanks again FDnewbie!