First of all, PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to my channel! Thanks in advance.

https://youtu.be/EGFJ0dDhZtU

So I decided to replace my failing hatch struts after doing some research. I didn't want to pay through the roof for OEM or JDM parts so I went with the aftermarket Strongarm 4309 struts on Amazon.

https://amzn.to/2YMxMf3

I was hesitant to do it myself because saw other threads where some ran into issues and there was not enough pictures for me to see what the process was like. So I made a video while I was doing it. Additional parts are in the link in the description.

 

 

Thank you for the video, this is exactly what I was looking for

 

Hey Billy,
Would these struts work for the heavier Mazdaspeed Wing?

 

​​​​​​You're welcome!

I'm not sure if these will support the MS wing, or the weight difference between a 99 spec, but I think they are strong enough. One thing to note, it still doesn't pop up on its own when I lift the latch lever, it requires me to lift the hatch 3 inches or so before it pushes up on its own.

 

I bought the same 4309 item from Amazon and I put it together installed it as soon I closed the hatch bottom section that attach to the body came apart the plastic piece and c clip could never be found! I don't have the 93 oem wing instead I have the oem 99 spec adjustable wing which makes the hatch much heavier. Since I could not return it I decide to buy new hatch struts from
Jehan at Jp3Motosports cost little more but it does make difference because it's design like the oem setup and my hatch stay up. I should point out I did not do that particular mod like in that video because I was not aware of it. Overall I like the Jp3 Motosports item much better.

 

Definitely consider the JP3 one if you can spend the extra bucks. It wasn't an option for me at the time this video was made. I also heard the R-Magic hatch struts are a direct OEM replacement for heavy wings (like the GT wing and 99 spec wing), I've ordered them before but couldn't wait months.

 

I have the racing beat 99 spec replica wing and when i used the 4309 strut, I also had to lift the hatch about 3 inches up then it will move up on its own but barely. Sometimes i would have to push the hatch all the way up and hold it by hand for a couple of seconds before it will stay in place.

I ended up going to tuffsupport.com to order their 610601 strut but with a custom spring force of 90-95lbs. These ended up working way better. Once you pop the latch, you just need to give it a little nudge and it goes up on its own. Cost was $25 each plus shipping.

 

No probably not. i did a similar upgrade on my car and i have the Mazdaspeed wing, in the summer time when its hot they barely hold. So i then bought another one and doubled up on one side so i actually have two on one side to make a pair and a single one on the other side. sounds ghetto but is barely noticeable and holds my hatch with the MS wing with no issue. still wont lift all the way up on its own though

 

Someone on another thread mentioned that the r-magic struts can hold up large track wings. I can’t confirm this yet but I plan to purchase a set.

 

Just throwing more info for others...
I have 93 with 99 spec wing
Got generic 26in 87lbs C16-13334 struts from amazon (sold under different brands) to test out the strength i need.
I'd say its a bit too strong, hatch goes up on its own as soon as you open. Probably gonna go with less force next time.
Came with 4 ball end tips, 10mm, M8x1.25. Exact fit for hatch side and quick drill out of originals from the bracket did the trick.
Overall easy install and will be quick to change next time. We'll see how long they last but well worth $20