Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Gas struts

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero gas struts — are they used?

Based on technical references, gas struts aren’t a factory‑fitted item on the 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP series). The Mitsubishi Motors Factory Service Manual for NM/NP (2000–2006, Body/Group 42A) specifies a bonnet support rod rather than gas‑charged lifts, and details a side‑hinged rear door that’s controlled by a mechanical door check/stopper. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists a bonnet prop rod and clip, and a rear door check assembly, with no gas spring part numbers for bonnet or tailgate on NM/NP models. Independent guides such as the Haynes Pajero/Montero 1997–2009 manual and Autodata body repair information echo the same setup: prop rod bonnet, side‑swing tailgate, no gas struts.

Why no gas struts? The third‑gen Pajero runs a side‑opening tailgate with the spare wheel mounted on it. That layout suits a robust hinge and a positive door check rather than vertical gas lifters designed for a top‑hinged liftgate. Gas struts are built to counter the weight of panels that swing upward, on a side‑swing door they’d fight the wrong direction and be exposed to awkward leverage. The mechanical check keeps the door from overextending on hills or in wind, which matters off‑road. Up front, Mitsubishi went with a simple bonnet prop rod for durability, heat resistance, and ease of service in harsh conditions—no seals to leak and nothing to sag with age when you’re a long way from town.

Owners who want a lighter feel sometimes retrofit bonnet gas struts, but that’s aftermarket territory and needs proper brackets, rust protection at the mounting points, and clearance checks around the guard and bonnet. For the factory setup, it’s worth keeping an eye on:

• Bonnet prop rod and plastic retaining clip—replace if loose, bent, or brittle.
• Rear door check/stopper—inspect for play, binding, or lack of “hold‑open” detents.
• Tailgate hinges—grease sparingly and check for wear, especially with larger spare wheels.

If the rear door swings too freely or won’t stay put on a slope, the door check may be worn. If the bonnet doesn’t sit securely when propped, the rod or clip’s due for replacement. Both are straightforward fixes that keep the Pajero safe and easy to live with on Kiwi and Aussie roads and tracks.

Popular questions about 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero gas struts

Does a 2001 Pajero have gas struts from factory?
From factory, no. The NM/NP Pajero uses a bonnet prop rod and a side‑hinged rear door with a door check, not gas‑charged lifters. That’s documented in the Mitsubishi workshop manual and parts catalogue for the 2000–2006 models.

Can bonnet gas struts be retrofitted to a 2001 Pajero?
Yes, aftermarket kits exist. Choose brackets that spread the load, confirm clearance through the bonnet’s swing, and use anti‑corrosion treatment on any drilled points. After fitting, recheck bonnet alignment and latch engagement.

What holds the rear door open on a 2001 Pajero?
A mechanical door check/stopper with detents controls the side‑swing tailgate. If the door won’t hold, the check may be worn or dry—replacement or lubrication usually sorts it. This part isn’t a gas strut.