Holding Hatch/Window Open Safely at Low Speed?

[Expedition Dave]

Holding Hatch/Window Open Safely at Low Speed?

Helping out with a parade, so thought I would check the Hive's mind regarding this. I have a few ideas, but figured someone here might have a ready made solution that was strong, and did not bend/break things.

Goofy clamps, removing it, and duct tape not an option...

I have an operational need to travel at less than 10 mph with the hatch open, and wanted to see if someone had a system. I don't think the hatch (or window) would slam shut below 10 mph, but I don't want any damage or it slamming shut during the parade.

Thx

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

Holding Hatch/Window Open Safely at Low Speed?

Helping out with a parade, so thought I would check the Hive's mind regarding this. I have a few ideas, but figured someone here might have a ready made solution that was strong, and did not bend/break things.

Goofy clamps, removing it, and duct tape not an option...

I have an operational need to travel at less than 10 mph with the hatch open, and wanted to see if someone had a system. I don't think the hatch (or window) would slam shut below 10 mph, but I don't want any damage or it slamming shut during the parade.

Thx

I have driven my 2015 Expedition Limited for 5-10 miles, at moderate speeds - up to 35 mph, with the rear glass window open on the hatch (while a cargo item stuck out of the hatch, resting on the cargo door bottom opening for the window). I had the rear window gas struts replaced under warranty at about 35,*** miles - as the window would begin to droop in very cold weather. The struts remain very strong now at about 70,*** miles.

I have also driven short distances (2-3 miles) at slower speeds (20-30 mph) with the hatch open, with lumber sticking out. I have the power rear lift gate and replaced the gas struts at about 50,*** - as the hatch would begin to slowly close in very cold weather (after opening it).

Each time I drove with the rear glass or hatch open, the struts were in good shape and strong.

Do you intend to have the hatch open and someone sit in the rear opening with their legs dangling out? If so, I would never do that.

Why do you need to have the hatch open during a slow-speed parade?

 

[Expedition Dave]

It will depend on the circumstances. Right now, I am looking for a solution that will pin/hold it open as needed.

 

[Retiredusps]

Cut a piece of rubber hose the length of the rod and place over rod part of strut, Slice down the length of hose. no marks no glue

 

[Plati]

Assume you mean hatch & no window glass, but you seem to say both?

piece of rope around roof rack & hatch handle
think i would add one down to latch strike plate to keep in one position, not bouncing

and avoid "bumps" BIGTIME

 

[GAINMOB]

go to a metal fab shop and have them make a piece to hold it open from tailgate to bumper for security reasons...get it painted to match ur truck and then u should be good to go