How do you remove/replace the tailgate lift supports? These do not have the band like the new ones. I do not see any type of clip to remove the socket from the ball

 

Band? What band?

Just pop them off. Hope you don't end up breaking the old ball joints because some you have to drill out to replace them. Not a big deal

 

Newer struts have a metal band that pop off with a screwdriver to release the socket.

Any tricks for popping them off? I tried but so far nothing.

 

Oh. That metal clip. Gotcha.

Tips for popping them off? I wish. I've always had to drill out the old studs and tap to install the new ball mounts.

 

When taken the strut off the hatch I always put a little tension on it and worked it till the strut got horzontial with the hatch. Try not to pry to hard or the ball will come off. It takes some time just gotta work the end so the ball pops out.