Parts for your 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero-Gas struts

1986 Mitsubishi Pajero Gas Struts — Fitment, Purpose, and Servicing Tips

Technical references confirm gas struts are relevant to the 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for the L040 series (1983–1991) lists a gas-charged tailgate “stay/damper” for the side-hinged rear door, and the factory Body section service manual describes the tailgate damper and mounting hardware. Major lift-support catalogues (e.g., Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe Max-Lift) also specify tailgate gas struts for 1983–1991 Pajero/Montero. The bonnet on this model is supported by a prop rod rather than gas struts.

On a 1986 Pajero, the gas strut on the rear door does the heavy lifting quietly in the background. It helps control the swing of the side-hinged tailgate, supports the weight (including that big spare tyre), and holds the door open securely so loading gear isn’t a juggling act. In rough Aussie or Kiwi conditions—corrugations, coastal air, and plenty of dust—that little cylinder works hard and eventually loses pressure.

Owners should keep an eye out for tell-tale signs:

• Tailgate no longer stays open or drifts shut, especially on a slope
• Oil misting on the strut body or visible weeping at the seal
• Jerky movement, creaks, or slow action in cold weather
• Excessive effort needed to start the door moving

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools. Support the tailgate safely, pop the retaining clips off the ball sockets, and swap the unit like-for-like. If the vehicle happens to be fitted with two struts (less common on Mk1), replace them as a pair to keep the door balanced. Always match the original length, end fittings, and rated force shown on the old unit or parts catalogue. Don’t try to “re-gas” an old strut—these are sealed and meant to be replaced.

Good habits extend strut life:

• Don’t use the door as a grab handle to haul the vehicle on angles
• Keep the strut shaft clean, wipe away grit and road film
• Inspect ball studs and brackets for wear or cracks at each service
• Avoid forcing the door against wind gusts, let the strut control the swing

For older Pajeros that see beach work, a fresh strut can be the difference between a tidy tailgate and a surprise bump to the head. Given the age of a 1986 rig, budgeting for a new tailgate strut is smart preventative maintenance—cheap insurance for safety and everyday convenience.

Does the 1986 Pajero bonnet use gas struts?

No. The Mk1 Pajero bonnet is supported by a prop rod. The gas-charged unit is on the side-hinged tailgate. Some body variants may have different rear-door hardware, but the bonnet itself wasn’t fitted with gas struts from factory.

Should both tailgate struts be replaced at once?

Most 1986 Pajeros use a single tailgate strut. If yours has two (occasionally seen on modified or certain market setups), replace them as a matched pair to keep door movement smooth and balanced.

How does one choose the correct replacement strut?

Match the original by part number, extended/compressed length, end fittings, and force rating as shown on the cylinder. The Mitsubishi ASA catalogue and reputable lift-support catalogues list the correct specs for 1983–1991 L040 Pajero. If the spare tyre and accessories are heavier than stock, talk to a supplier about an appropriate force rating.