Update on Auto Liftgate...

[MagnumFreak]

Well I just returned FROM my local dealer and here is an UPDATE on the research for adding an automatic liftgate (ala Pacifica). The first thing I discovered is that the Pacifica's system is nothing like I expected. I had expected that one or both of the gas charged support struts would be replaced with the linear actuator needed to open the door. This is not the case. Both gas charged struts are still there and the linear actuator is added to the left side. The actuator is hidden inside a plastic cover.

Now, can this be added to the Magnum?? Yes it can but it would be very difficult and require someone with some excellent interior work skills. So, rather than get INTO a difficult mod, I will begin looking for an actuator that will work in place of the gas charged strut. I am not sure they even exist, but I will CHECK with my source. Should know something in the next week or so.

Even if not HAVING the actuator covered up wouldn't bother you the bracket fabrication would be a real pain. I think finding an actuator that could REPLACE the existing gas charged ones would be the most direct way.

Oh well. The research continues.

[Jim]

Keep at it... this is good stuff...

Another option I've played with is instead of HAVING an actuator have a rotary motor attached to a real and then connect a line to the door. Then you would just hook up a relay to the motor to reel in the line to shut the door. The tricky part is to have the motor dissengage when its not in use so the door will open.