2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement

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If the rear window of your 2001 Chevrolet Suburban won’t stay open, the struts (also known as lift supports or lift support struts) that hold it up need to be replaced. This guide will walk you through replacing these struts. It’s important to replace failing struts because an unsupported window has the potential to dangerously drop on your head or shatter against any cargo sticking out.

You’ll want to consider the following:

Having a partner is immensely helpful. Having someone hold the window open is easier (and safer) than propping it open.
Some users may need a step stool. Due to the height of the upper strut joints, some users may find it more comfortable to use a step stool or step ladder.

This procedure isn’t dangerous, but be aware of the following hazards:

The window could fall and hurt you. Be sure it’s secure.
The tabs on the struts could be flung into your eyes. The risk of this is low unless you try to completely remove the tabs or use excessive force when loosening them.
The grease on the strut joints and mounting studs is toxic. Wash your hands when you’re done.

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crwdns2931653:01crwdne2931653:0 Rear Window Struts

2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement, Rear Window Struts: crwdns2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement, Rear Window Struts: crwdns2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Open the window.
Support the window with either a partner's hands or a sturdy prop.
A prop is used in the photos.

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2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:02crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Position the small screwdriver on the indentation in the lower joint of the strut.
Gently wedge the screwdriver under the metal locking tab and pop it out.
You don't have to completely remove the tab—just make sure it doesn't pop back into place. Getting a screwdriver completely under it (as shown) is usually enough.
If needed, use the larger screwdriver to help loosen the tab.

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2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:03crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:03crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Position the screwdriver on the indentation in the upper joint.
Gently wedge the screwdriver under the metal locking tab and pop it out.

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2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:04crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:04crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Stand at the back of the vehicle (behind the rear bumper) and face the lower joint of the strut.
Grab the lower joint.
Pull firmly, straight towards you and slightly upwards until the joint pops off.

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2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:05crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

2001 Chevrolet Suburban Rear Window Struts Replacement: crwdns2935265:05crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Stand at the side of the vehicle and face the upper joint of the strut.
Grab the upper joint.
Pull firmly, straight towards you until the joint pops off. Do not pull upwards or downwards.