Thanks to all those that contributed to my quest to replace my late, great 940 wagon. I found a 1998 v70 with experience (288k) that spent its life in the service of either the dealer of origin or an employee thereof. Most components have been changed out and many engine parts replaced with higher performance parts. Truly well cared for.
The lift gate supporting "shocks" for this car are past it and need to be changed out. I had to change them out on the 940 and it was pretty straight forward. These,on the other hand, seem like something on one of them foreign cars. The whole reason I use station wagons is for the carting of things. Grand piano actions and an 88 note digital controllers. . So, a self supporting lift gate is important. Has anyone ever had to deal with this issue? The old rake handle ploy won't cut it.
Thanks!
Barrelhouse

Easy to replace the tailgate struts. I suggest getting the slightly more expensive OE struts, they just work a lot better than the knock-offs.

Once the top plastic trim is removed, use a flat screwdriver or small pry bar to pop off the old strut and install the new one. The struts have a small pin to keep the ball in place, easily inserted with a pair of needle nose pliers.
--
Keeping it running is better than buying new