Rear hatch struts on the 300te. Mine is a 1989...As the cold weather is here...the hatch tends to fall on my head. Got two new ones. tried to put them in. No problem with headliner/ exposing the pistons. Bent the tab to release the square pin, removed the c-clip on the rod...Could not...I repeat, could not, get either pin out (square head or other pin). Tried to pry with large screwdriver. Didn't want to bang too hard, afraid of the effects on the roof/ side window. Anyway...any hints?

Though I have not had to tackle this pob on my 300TD, is it possible the weight or pressure is holding the pin from coming out? Probably not based on your description yet just a thought until someone else chimes in.

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Steve
'87 300TD - 132K - Soon 4-Sale
'84 300D Turbo - 122K - Driving
'77 VW Type II - 77K - Restored
'08 250EX Ninja
English Bulldog (Brier) - My best friend. Passed away 12/02/04 while in my arms.