My 79 has wires that run through the rear hatch struts to power the rear defroster. Unfortunately, those struts have lost their umph. What can you do? Herb

 

I know the hatch structs can be had aftermarket. I THINK the part that activates the defroster can be removed from the old struct and placed on the new one. It would be easy on see if the defroster contact comes off the existing struct.

https://www.rx7club.com/1st-generati...-shocks-32620/

Quote from this thread from 7Alll
"I also have the StrongArm strut unit, and it includes instructions on removing the old harness/hardware from the old strut and installing them on this unit. Apparently the Strong Arm has a removable end fitting to allow for this! It does mean actually cutting off an end of the old strut to remove it. haven't done it yet myself but was surprised (pleasantly) to see this added detail.
Stu Aull"

I've never bought these so I can't speaks for them.

 

I'm not sure about the 79, but in my 82 I was able to order a pair off of rock auto. It was super easy to transfer the wires and connectors that power the wiper and defroster. The ones off rock auto are almost identical to the old pair. I got these ones: STRONGARM 4709 Lift Support

 

Interestingly enough my 80 SA has the wires come out from under the window moulding near the top corner, so 79 must be different. So many small differences.

 

My 85 GS is the same way as Tim's., but the others don't look too intimidating to change out.

 

Yep, I used the Strong Arm ones also (IIRC they may have been cheaper of Amazon). Worked perfectly!

 

I ordered a set off of RockAuto as well.

It's miraculous what having the rear hatch stay up properly will do to one's mind...