Gabriel Hijackers Rear Adjustable Air Shock Absorbers - Level and Tow

In this review of the Gabriel Hijackers rear adjustable air shock absorbers the bottom line is simple: these are for owners of classic Volkswagen models who need a flexible, temporary leveling and towing aid. The reviewer found them most valuable for vehicles that carry varying loads or tow occasionally because the adjustable air pressure delivers up to 1,100 lbs of leveling capacity per pair while still functioning as conventional shocks. Installation is straightforward and the construction aims at long life, making these a practical upgrade for Beetles, Fastbacks, Squarebacks, Super Beetles and Things from the specified years.

Key Features

• Vehicle fitment: Direct fit for 1952-77 Volkswagen Beetle, 1969-73 Fastback, 1966-73 Squareback, 1971-79 Super Beetle and 1973-74 Thing, so buyers can expect correct mounts without major modification.
• Adjustable air pressure: Allows the user to tailor ride height and comfort depending on load weight, which improves stability when towing or hauling.
• Leveling capacity: Offers up to 1,100 lbs of leveling capacity per pair to reduce sag under heavy loads and help prevent bottoming out.
• Durable construction: Features a chromed piston rod and leak-proof piston seal intended to extend service life in towing and classic vehicle use.
• Compact stroke and lengths: Stroke of 5.6 in with extended length 16.35 in and collapsed length 10.75 in, providing predictable travel for the listed VW platforms.

Who It's For

These shocks suit owners of vintage Volkswagen models who occasionally tow trailers, carry heavy cargo, or need temporary ride-height adjustment while preserving the vehicle's original suspension geometry. They are ideal for classic car enthusiasts who want a reversible, non-permanent solution to sag and handling under load.

They are not aimed at drivers seeking permanent lift kits or those who require electronically controlled suspension; anyone worried about long-term oil leakage or who needs a lifetime commercial towing solution should consider a professional, vehicle-specific system instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Work as conventional shocks while providing adjustable air support for improved ride and towing performance.
• Easy to install on the listed VW models, with upper and lower mount codes matching original geometry.
• Good value for temporary leveling needs, with customers praising fit, ride quality and stability.
• Durable features like chromed piston rods and a leak-proof seal aimed at longer life.

Cons

• Some users report occasional oil or air leakage, so long-term sealing may vary by unit and use.
• Designed for temporary towing or short-term heavy loads rather than permanent heavy-duty commercial use.

Specifications

Vehicle Fitment	52-77 Beetle; 69-73 Fastback; 66-73 Squareback; 71-79 Super Beetle; 73-74 Thing
Stroke	5.6 in
Extended Length	16.35 in
Collapsed Length	10.75 in
Upper Mount Code	ES17
Lower Mount Code	ES17
Interchange Part Numbers	MA803, 729204, 49307

Our Verdict

Gabriel Hijackers are a practical, cost-effective choice for classic Volkswagen owners who need adjustable rear support for towing or varied cargo. They deliver genuine leveling capacity and retain conventional shock function, offering solid value for those after a reversible, easy-to-install solution, while buyers seeking a lifetime heavy-duty towing setup should weigh the reported occasional leakage against the benefit of adjustable air support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these fit my VW Beetle?
They are made to fit 1952-77 Volkswagen Beetle and the other listed models using ES17 upper and lower mounts.

How much weight can they level?
The pair offers up to about 1,100 lbs of leveling capacity when adjusted correctly for load.

Are they difficult to install?
Installation is generally straightforward for someone with basic suspension experience and uses existing mount codes for direct fitment.