It's been some years since I changed out 245 cargo door struts, but I do remember that getting the strut unscrewed out of the ball was not necessary.

Look on the ball for a little wire piece. It can be pulled out, and that allows the ball to come off the bit that's attached to the door frame. Pull the wire, pull off the ball, replace the wire in the ball so as not to allow it to get lost.

Then clean and lubricate, put on the new struts.

I, too, pondered about getting the old strut off. Finally figured that however it went on, it was a quick process as all assembly processes are as quick as possible.

Also I recall having a long board to prop up the cargo door. Keeps skull unbruised.

Good Luck,

Bob

:>)