I just acquired a very very nice all original 79 but need to replace the rear window struts. Is there anyone selling new one or is it possible to rebuild the old ones? These are the ones that have the defroster wire running through them so I cant just replace them with a set of standard aftermarket ones.

 

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...t+support,1404

 

I bought the ones from rock Auto for my 80 and for the most part they are good , but the 79 has the glass defroster tabs at the rear of the glass and the strut houses the wire and the ones on rock auto don't have that.

 

An option for rebuilding your original struts.

https://strutwise.com

 

I just spoke to Frank at Strutwise and I will be sending out my window struts in the morning to be rebuilt. The cost is about $45 each for rebuild. I will follow up to this thread once I get them back.

 

Strutwise does great work.

 

Really interested in the outcome of this. I have a 79 and I can get them to hold at the halfway point. $45 a side isn’t to all that bad.

 

Stupid question but wouldn't it is possible to install some sort of clamp that you hand tighten, it would take about two seconds to lock it down and imo is better than any hydraulic system because there's no room for your friend leaking on the window and smashing your fingers..

 

A wire is a wire... why not just make the ground work with the new struts?

 

I will update as soon as then get back to me. To the questions , why not use the strut clamp or why not just make the wire work on newer struts … that's not how keeping a car original works. to be fair the car will never see the rain or ever have the need for the rear defrosters but original is original so that's what must be done.

 

I'm all into originality as well. I would personally have them rebuilt as well. I think that's a great idea!

 

I got these back about a week ago and could not be happier. They look like they were never touched. installed and work like new. I will be sending the extra set i have out to get rebuilt soon. Highly recommend Strutwise .,

 

That's great news!! Another source to keep our cars original! Glad to hear they work well!