I have an '84 GSL-SE. I am trying to get the end of the lift piston that is attached to the window frame [ end with pressed on ball like connection ] off. This is the original Mazda part from the factory. There is no release clip that I can see. How are these removed ? Does the part that threads into the window frame have to be removed [ ball connection threaded into the hole in the window frame ]....... It's been on there awhile, 30 years ...... I am the original owner ... Car has only 53000 miles on it ... And I drove it across the country last year ... NY to Cali via Rt 66 ....
Fun drive !!!! Thanks.....

 

The ***** are attached to the cups permanently, IIRC. That means you'll need to unscrew the ball from the rear hatch frame - I believe there's a flat section at the base of the ball mount which will allow you to unscrew it. It's been awhile since I changed mine, however.

Nice job keeping it on the road!

 

Just removed some of these not too long ago. Iirc the mount on the glass has a pin with a c clip to hold it in place, and i think it is facing the center of the hatch. I forget what the mount on the car is attatched with. Hope that helps.

 

There are some pictures here Hatch struts

 

Just did this a day ago on an 84 se. Use a 12mm wrench and UN screw the ball/nut on the quarter window frame. As that factory strut won't pop off that ball. The New strut will come with a new ball/screw as well.

 

Thanks to all. I changed it tonight. Had to hacksaw off the piston and ball so I could get a good 6 point socket on the threaded section... only way I could turn it out ... it was really in there good.......After that pretty easy......