Haven't had the car long enough to know what's normal. The tailgate has always been a bit difficult to open. It will, however, support it's own weight when open. In fact, it will support it's own weight when opened only to chest height.

I took out the cylinders and they are both solid. I was expecting one to be shot.

So is this normal, or do I have two slightly weak struts? Will they get progressively worse?

I replaced both sides with FCP Groton parts. Word of caution for anyone considering these parts. They are a lot cheaper, but have two minor flaws. They are about 1/8 inch longer than OEM so they are not as easy to install. You have to losen the hinge bolts and have an assistant push up hard on the tailgate. Install the end closest to the front of the car first. They are plenty strong, but don't have the dampening of the OEM. If you let the tailgate open on it's own it will bounce when it gets to the top. For the savings, I don't mind slowing it down with my hand.

My 1998 was like that. When I put in new struts it was like night/day! It no longer slammed when I shut it and came up real easy.
When you order new ones, make sure they are for a wagon and not a sedan.

Klaus

--
Proud owner of a 1967 220S. If I had more room, I would have more Volvos.

Thanks. I guess I'll have to replace both. I tried the gate with each strut and they were both about the same strength. I was hoping one was good and the other bad.

I replaced the struts on my daughter's V70 in about 1.5 hours, and if I ever had to do it again, the next time would be faster. A well worthwhile repair. Also, if the inner panel of the tailgate is loose, this is a good time to install the repair clip kit that IPD sells.

Hi Robert ! I have a 98 XC and the tail door opens very easily. I suspect your struts to be original and are getting weak. Even when week they hold a lot of pressure. Did you lube the rear wiper shaft yet ? It tends to get corroded and seize up. Try spraying some silicone lube on it.
Good Luck ! RK

It appears you may have one bad one which will cause the door to stay only part way open
Like everything it may be hard to tell which one is bad and it is best to replace both of them, as the other one may fail also.
I have an old cherokee and this has been a problem since day one.
I now use a pole to hold it open and it never fails.(not a good option)
Good luck