Understanding Camper Shell Strut Types
Camper shell struts, often referred to as gas springs or lift supports, are essential components that enable smooth, controlled opening and closing of truck caps and tonneau covers. They provide the necessary force to lift the weight of the lid and hold it open, offering convenient access to your truck bed. Understanding their core function is fundamental before selecting the right type for your specific needs.
- Struts lift and hold camper shell lids open.
- Gas struts offer smooth, controlled motion.
- Mechanical struts provide robust, fixed support.
- Proper sizing ensures optimal performance and safety.
The primary function of these struts is to counterbalance the weight of the camper shell's rear door or tailgate. This mechanism is critical for preventing accidental closure and reducing the physical effort required to operate the lid. While many units function similarly, they differ mainly in their internal mechanics and application suitability.
Gas Struts: The Smooth Operators
Gas struts are the most common type found on modern camper shells. They contain pressurized nitrogen gas and a small amount of oil within a sealed cylinder. When compressed, the gas is forced through the oil, providing a controlled, smooth extension and retraction. This damping action prevents slamming and offers a premium feel. Their force is typically measured in pounds (lbs) or Newtons (N).
Mechanical Struts: Simple and Durable
Less common for typical camper shells but found in some heavy-duty applications or older models, mechanical struts often utilize a spring-loaded system or a robust, friction-based mechanism. They lack the smooth damping of gas struts and might require manual locking to stay open. However, they can be extremely durable and are less susceptible to temperature fluctuations affecting performance.
It is imperative to acknowledge that selecting the correct strut involves matching force, length, and mounting points precisely. An undersized strut won't hold the lid up effectively, while an oversized one can make operation difficult or damage the shell's mounting points.
Key Criteria for Selecting Camper Shell Struts
What makes a camper shell strut perform reliably? It boils down to a few critical specifications that you must match to your specific application. Getting these wrong can lead to performance issues, or worse, damage to your camper shell. This is where specific-focused selection becomes paramount.
Force (Lift Support)
This is the most critical specification, indicating how much weight the strut can lift and hold. It's usually listed in pounds (lbs) or Newtons (N). You need to determine the weight of your camper shell's tailgate or lid. A common method is to weigh the lid separately. If that's not possible, you can temporarily support the lid with a scale when it's open to get an approximate reading. For example, if your tailgate weighs 40 lbs, you might look for struts that provide a combined lift of slightly more than that, accounting for leverage. Often, two struts work together, so you'd divide the total weight by two to get the requirement per strut, though it's wise to have a bit of extra force.
Extended and Compressed Length
The extended length is the measurement from the center of one mounting ball/stud to the center of the other when the strut is fully extended. The compressed length is the same measurement when the strut is fully collapsed. You must measure the distance between your existing mounting points on the camper shell and the tailgate/lid in both the fully open and fully closed positions. The new strut's extended length should match the distance when open, and its compressed length should match when closed, allowing for a slight tolerance. This ensures the lid opens to the desired angle and closes completely without binding.
Understanding these dimensions is fundamental for a successful installation. Incorrect lengths can lead to the lid not opening fully or not sealing properly when closed.
Mounting Hardware and Type
Ensure the strut's end fittings (e.g., ball studs, eyelets, clevises) match the existing mounting brackets on your camper shell and tailgate. Many camper shells use standard ball studs, but variations exist. If your original hardware is damaged or you're installing new, consider using universal strut clamps for flexible mounting or specific strut angle bracket setups if clearance is an issue. For instance, a gas strut for a 1967 C10 tailgate might have specific end fittings required for that vintage.
The true measure of a quality camper shell strut isn't just its lift capacity, but how precisely its dimensions and force align with your vehicle's specific lid mechanics.
When measuring for strut length, always use a flexible tape measure and account for the arc the lid travels; measure from the center of the front mounting point to the center of the rear mounting point in both fully open and fully closed positions.
Comparison: Top Strut Options for Camper Shells
When you're looking for replacement or upgrade camper shell struts, you'll encounter a range of brands and types. While specific models vary, understanding the general categories and their strengths helps narrow down your choices. Here's a look at common options, keeping in mind that exact specifications for brands like Lesjöfors gas struts rear specifications or specific truck models are critical.
Head-to-Head Comparison
The market offers numerous brands, but they generally fall into categories based on quality and intended use. For camper shells, the focus is usually on reliable gas struts designed for automotive applications.
| Criterion | Brand A (Premium Gas Strut) | Brand B (Standard Gas Strut) | Brand C (Mechanical/Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lift Smoothness | Excellent (controlled damping) | Good (standard damping) | Fair (can be abrupt) |
| Durability | High (quality seals, materials) | Moderate (standard materials) | High (simpler mechanism) |
| Temperature Sensitivity | Low (stable performance) | Moderate (performance may vary) | Very Low (mechanical) |
| Cost | $$$ | $$ | $ |
| Typical Application | Heavy-duty shells, frequent use | Standard shells, general use | Older models, specific heavy lids |
When considering specific models, you might find options like the Lesjöfors gas struts rear specifications tailored for certain vehicle types, or universal strut clamps for DIY installations. It's crucial to cross-reference the extended length, compressed length, and force against your measurements. For specialized needs, like a full strut turkey mount on a custom build, the engineering requirements would be significantly different and likely custom.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Strut
For most camper shell owners, high-quality gas struts offer the best balance of performance, convenience, and longevity. Prioritize brands known for reliable automotive gas springs. Always double-check the extended and compressed lengths against your existing setup. If your original struts fail, measure them carefully or measure the mounting points to ensure an exact match. Don't compromise on specifications; precise measurements are key to ensuring your camper shell operates safely and smoothly.
If you're unsure about the required force, err on the side of slightly less force and use a secondary support, like a prop rod, rather than risking damage from struts that are too strong.