Parts for your 1987 Suzuki Jimny-Gas struts

1987 Suzuki Jimny (SJ/Sierra) — Gas struts not factory-fitted

For the 1987 Suzuki Jimny (also known locally as the SJ/Sierra/Samurai), gas struts weren’t part of the original equipment. Factory technical literature and parts information show this clearly: the bonnet is supported by a simple hood stay (prop rod), and the rear opening is a side-hinged tailgate with a check strap rather than an upward-lifting hatch that would need struts. This setup is documented across Suzuki’s SJ410/SJ413 service manuals (Body and Hood sections) and period parts catalogues, which list the hood stay and tailgate check strap but no gas dampers for the bonnet, tailgate, or rear glass.

That design choice suits the Jimny’s rugged brief. A prop rod is basic, cheap, and very reliable off-road, where dust, mud, and temperature swings can shorten the life of gas-filled components. The tailgate is side-hinged and carries a spare wheel on many trims, so there’s no top-hinged hatch for struts to support. Period brochures and body repair references consistently depict the side-hinged rear door on tin-top and soft-top variants, with no callouts to gas struts.

Why gas struts weren’t used on this model year:

• Simplicity and durability: a steel prop rod and mechanical check strap are nearly failure-proof in harsh conditions.
• Body layout: the rear door swings sideways, there’s no liftgate or separate glass hatch to hold up.
• Cost and serviceability: fewer seals and pressure-filled parts to age, especially important for a light, budget-friendly 4x4.

Owners sometimes ask about retrofitting struts to the bonnet. Aftermarket kits exist, but quality and fitment vary. If considering this, choose stainless or well-coated hardware for coastal and off-road use, ensure load and stroke are correct for the lightweight bonnet, and avoid stressing thin inner panels with makeshift brackets. Regular checks of the original setup still go a long way: keep bonnet hinges lightly lubricated, make sure the prop rod clips are intact, and inspect the tailgate check strap so the door doesn’t overextend on windy days.

Do any 1987 Jimny variants have factory gas struts?

No. Across SJ410/SJ413/Sierra trims of that era, the bonnet uses a prop rod and the rear is a side-hinged door. Factory parts listings and service manuals for these models don’t include gas dampers.

Can gas struts be added to the bonnet?

Yes, as an aftermarket modification. Use vehicle-specific brackets, choose appropriate force ratings, and protect mounting points against corrosion. Periodically check fixings, as vibration and off-road flex can loosen hardware over time.

What maintenance is recommended if the vehicle has no gas struts?

Keep the bonnet hinges and latch clean and lubricated, make sure the prop rod is straight and its retainer clip holds firmly, and inspect the tailgate check strap and hinges. These small checks keep panels opening smoothly without the need for struts.