Parts for your 2002 Toyota Land cruiser-Gas struts

2002 Toyota Land Cruiser gas struts — what’s fitted and what’s not

Gas struts are relevant to the 2002 Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series. Technical sources including the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (which lists a “Stay Assembly, Back Door Glass” for UZJ100/HDJ100) and the Toyota 100 Series Repair Manual (Body section, Back Door) confirm the upper tailgate glass uses gas-charged stays. Aftermarket catalogues from major gas spring manufacturers also list direct-fit rear glass struts for this model. The bonnet on the 100 Series is supported by a prop rod from factory, not gas struts, though aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist.

On a 2002 Land Cruiser 100 Series, gas struts raise and hold the upper tailgate glass so loading gear is quick, safe, and hands‑free. These sealed, nitrogen‑charged units provide lift assist and controlled damping, stopping the glass from slamming and taking the strain off hinges and brackets. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—heat, dust, and coastal salt—they work hard, so routine checks during servicing are a smart move.

Owners should look over the rear glass struts every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres. Tell‑tales that the charge is fading include slow or incomplete lift, the glass drifting down (especially in cold weather), and a light oily film around the rod seal. Any bend, pitting, or damage on the rod is a sign the strut’s had its day.

When replacement time comes, swap them in pairs. Matching force (measured in newtons) and end fittings keeps the glass balanced and the latch geometry happy. Choose quality units rated for the vehicle—and for any added accessories like ladders or mounted gear that increase load on the glass. During the job, always support the glass with a prop or a helper, wear eye protection, and never rely on a weak strut to hold weight.

Fitting is usually a straightforward spanner job: pop the spring clips at the ball sockets, transfer or replace the clips, and click the new struts on with the rod facing down. Don’t twist the shaft, and don’t lubricate the chrome rod—just keep it clean so the seal lasts. In coastal areas, rinse brackets after beach trips and check for corrosion around the mounts.

Most sets last five to ten years, but heat, rough tracks, and frequent use can shorten that. If in doubt, replace before the glass surprises anyone—no one likes a tailgate tapping them on the back of the head at the servo.

• Common symptoms: slow lift, sagging in cold weather, squeaks/clicks, oily residue on the rod, visible rust or pitting.
• Service tip: replace in pairs, support the glass, and dispose of old struts as pressurised items—do not puncture.

Does the 2002 Land Cruiser bonnet use gas struts?

No. From factory the 100 Series bonnet uses a prop rod, not gas struts. If hands‑free bonnet lifting is desired, there are aftermarket bonnet strut kits designed specifically for this model, but they’re not original equipment.

How often should the tailgate glass struts be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval. Replace them when they show symptoms like sagging, slow lift, or leakage. In typical Aussie and NZ conditions, many owners see five to ten years out of a set, with coastal and hot climates tending to shorten lifespan.

Can just one rear glass strut be replaced?

It’s best to replace both. A single new strut paired with a tired one can twist the glass and mounts, stressing hinges and latches. Replacing in pairs restores balanced lift and proper hold‑open force.