Parts for your 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero-Gas struts

1993 Mitsubishi Pajero gas struts — are they used?

Short answer: no, gas struts weren’t an original fitment on the 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero (second generation NH/NJ/NK). Technical references back this up. The Mitsubishi Pajero NH–NK Factory Service Manual (Body section) specifies a simple bonnet support rod rather than gas springs, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for NH/NJ lists a rear door check strap and hinges, but no gas strut for the tailgate or bonnet. Independent workshop guides for the era show the same arrangement. That means “gas struts” aren’t a standard service item on this model.

Why didn’t Mitsubishi use them? The Pajero’s rear door is side‑hinged with the spare tyre mounted externally, so it doesn’t need lift assistance like a top‑hinged hatch would. A mechanical check strap is robust, cheap, and reliable off‑road, and it avoids extra load paths that a gas spring would introduce with a heavy, swinging door. Up front, the bonnet prop rod is likewise a durable, low‑maintenance solution that copes well with dust, mud, and big temperature swings common in Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Owners will sometimes retrofit aftermarket bonnet gas strut kits for convenience. That’s a non‑OEM upgrade and, when done properly with model‑specific brackets, it can work well. Just note it’s not part of the factory design, so bracket placement, clearance to the guard and bonnet frame, and the force rating of the struts matter to avoid panel stress.

• Rear door: side‑hinged with a check strap, no factory gas strut.
• Bonnet: factory support rod, no factory gas struts.
• Aftermarket: bonnet strut kits are available if desired, but not required for servicing.

FAQ

Can a 1993 Pajero be fitted with bonnet gas struts?
Yes. Aftermarket kits exist for NH/NJ/NK Pajero models and usually bolt to existing points with custom brackets. Pick a kit designed for the generation to get the right stroke and force. Check clearance to wiper arms and guards, and don’t bin the factory prop rod—keeping it as a backup is handy for touring. If the bonnet feels harder to close after fitting, the struts are likely over‑rated.

Does the rear door use a gas strut from factory?
No. The second‑gen Pajero’s rear door is side‑hinged and uses a mechanical check strap/hinge detent to hold it open. There’s no OEM gas spring. Some owners add a damper to soften the swing, but that’s aftermarket and needs careful positioning to avoid twisting the door with the spare wheel weight.

How do you look after aftermarket gas struts if they’ve been installed?
Keep the chrome rods clean and dry—wipe off dust and salt, but don’t grease them (oil attracts grit and damages seals). Replace in pairs if lift effort changes or the panel sags in cold weather. Use the correct force rating, and avoid pressing on the panel to “help” a weak strut, that can stress the bonnet or its mounts.