Rear hatch lift questions

[AzHic13]

So my rear hatch kept falling and trying to kill me when it got cold out, so I finally replaced the hatch dampers. Problem is when I took the old ones off, the rubber gaskets that the bolt runs through for the top connection point are completely dry rotted. I talked to the dealer and they said the only way they can get them is by ordering the whole piece (lift plus mount $250+ for each side). Has anyone else run into this or have other ideas for what I can use as a replacement? I was thinking of running to ACE hardware to see if they have anything, otherwise i'm just rubbing metal on metal.

Thanks

 

[CapnRoo]

a few days ago, someone posted on here they changed out the gas pistons that hold the gate open. I think they said they paid around $45 for each side, with shipping it was just over $100.

 

[Ron Helmuth]

Just take one of those bushings to Ace Hardware and I would be shocked if they can't find something quite similar to match it to.

I'm desperately searching for that thread CapnRoo is mentioning-was it in the 3rd gen section here or over on Yota Tech? Anyways that thread also had a link to an online fasteners store that sells rubber bushings...

 

[4-Ripcord]

Here ya go:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...rm-4286-gas-charged-lift-supports-review.html

 

[AzHic13]

perfect, thanks rip, i'll take measurements tomorrow. Thanks