The Problem: Why Your Gas Strut Doesn't Fit
When a gas strut fails or is installed incorrectly, it can lead to frustrating issues like lids not staying open, excessive force required to close, or premature wear. The core problem often stems from selecting a gas strut whose size parameters do not match the application's specific demands.
- Select gas struts based on force, stroke, and end fittings.
- Incorrect sizing leads to poor performance and component damage.
- Measure existing struts and the application opening carefully.
- Consider mounting points and angle for optimal function.
- Consult manufacturer specifications for precise compatibility.
Understanding the fundamental 'gas strut size chart' principles means going beyond simple length measurements. It involves a precise interplay of force (Newtons), stroke length (inches or mm), bore diameter, rod diameter, and the type of end fittings. Without this detailed approach, you risk selecting a strut that is too weak, too powerful, too long, or too short, rendering it ineffective or even damaging to the equipment it's meant to support.
Common Sizing Mistakes
Many users mistakenly believe that 'size' only refers to the overall compressed or extended length of the strut. This oversight is a primary cause of installation failure. Other common errors include ignoring the required force (extension force), not accounting for the necessary travel distance (stroke), and failing to match end fittings to the mounting points. Even subtle variations in the gas strut windows or attachment hardware can prevent proper operation.
For example, fitting a gas strut for a 1967 C10 tailgate requires specific force to lift the weight, but too much stroke could cause it to bottom out harshly. Similarly, a gas strut for a heavy application like a garage door reinforcement strut needs substantial force and robust construction, not just length.
Precision in gas strut sizing is not optional; it's the bedrock of reliable mechanical support and safe operation.
The result of these miscalculations is often a component that doesn't perform its intended function. A lid might slam shut unexpectedly, or a hatch might sag, creating safety hazards and operational inefficiencies. This is why a comprehensive understanding, often derived from a detailed gas strut size chart or specification guide, is essential.
Causes of Incorrect Strut Selection
The reasons behind choosing the wrong gas strut size are varied. Often, it's due to a lack of readily available or understandable specification data for the specific application. For instance, trying to find lesjofors gas struts rear specifications without knowing the exact vehicle model and year can lead to guesswork. Another common cause is relying solely on visual comparison of old struts, which may have degraded over time and no longer represent the original required specifications. Without access to a proper gas strut size chart or manufacturer's data, users are left to make educated, but often flawed, assumptions.
Solutions: Building Your Gas Strut Size Chart
To avoid the pitfalls of incorrect sizing, you must approach gas strut selection systematically. The solution lies in creating a de facto 'gas strut size chart' tailored to your specific need, focusing on several key parameters. This involves meticulous measurement and understanding the mechanics of how struts work.
The primary considerations for any gas strut size chart are: force, stroke, and dimensions. Force is typically measured in Newtons (N) and dictates how much weight the strut can support or lift. Stroke is the distance the rod travels within the cylinder, determining how far the lid or hatch can open. Overall length (extended and compressed) and the type of end fittings (e.g., eyelets, ball sockets, clevises) are also critical for proper installation and function, much like universal strut clamps or a strut angle bracket would be for securing them.
Determining Required Force (Newtons)
This is arguably the most critical factor. For lifting applications, you need to calculate the torque required to open the lid/hatch and convert it to the necessary extension force. This usually involves measuring the weight of the object being lifted, the distance from the hinge to the center of mass, and the distance from the hinge to the strut mounting point. A common method involves using a spring scale to measure the force needed to hold the lid at its halfway open point and then multiplying that by a factor (often 1.5-2, depending on angle) to determine the required strut force.
A common mistake is not accounting for the weight of the lid itself or the angle at which the strut will operate. For example, a gas strut for a 1967 C10 tailgate needs enough force to overcome the tailgate's weight and gravity, especially at steeper angles.
Measuring Stroke and Length
The stroke length is the distance the strut rod extends and retracts. It must be sufficient to allow the lid or hatch to open fully but not so long that the strut bottoms out forcefully. Measure the distance the lid needs to travel from its closed position to its fully open position. The strut's stroke should comfortably accommodate this travel. The overall extended and compressed lengths are also vital; the extended length must not prevent the lid from closing fully, and the compressed length must allow for sufficient opening without obstruction.
Always measure the existing strut (if available and functional) fully extended and fully compressed. Note the rod diameter and cylinder (bore) diameter, as these often correlate with force and durability.
End Fittings and Mounting Geometry
End fittings must match your existing mounting hardware or be compatible with new hardware. Common types include threaded studs, eyelets, ball sockets, and clevises. The geometry of your mounting points is also crucial. The angle at which the strut attaches affects its performance. A strut mounted too vertically might require more force, while one mounted too horizontally might not extend fully or could bind. Understanding the ideal strut angle bracket placement can prevent issues.
For applications like gas strut windows, ensuring the correct stroke and force prevents the window from slamming shut or being difficult to open. This attention to detail is what differentiates a successful installation from a problematic one. Our analysis indicates that ignoring mounting geometry is a leading cause of premature strut failure.
If you're working with a specialized system, like a mini 14 accu strut or a full strut turkey mount, these principles still apply, but you must also consult the specific technical documentation for those components. They often have unique requirements for force, stroke, and mounting angles that are critical for their intended function.
Prevention: Maintaining Your Gas Strut Performance
Once you've correctly selected and installed your gas struts, proactive prevention strategies ensure their longevity and consistent performance. The goal is to minimize stress and wear, extending the lifespan beyond what a basic gas strut size chart could predict.
Regular inspection and cleaning are fundamental. Dirt and debris can infiltrate the seal, leading to gas leakage or rod damage. Periodically wipe down the strut rod and cylinder with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can degrade the seal material.
Regular Inspection and Lubrication
Inspect the strut rod for any signs of damage, such as nicks, scratches, or corrosion. These imperfections can compromise the seal and lead to performance degradation. If damage is found, it is often best to replace the strut, as repairing them is generally not feasible and attempting to do so can void any warranty. Ensure end fittings are secure and free from excessive play or wear.
When replacing a strut, always replace them in pairs if they are on the same application (e.g., both sides of a tailgate or trunk lid). This ensures even lifting and prevents undue stress on hinges or the structure.
While gas struts are sealed units and don't require internal lubrication, external surfaces should be kept clean. Some specialized applications might benefit from light lubrication on pivot points of the end fittings, but this is rare and dependent on the specific hardware. The primary focus for prevention is maintaining the integrity of the sealed unit and its mounting points.
Avoiding Overload and Stress
Never exceed the rated force capacity of your gas struts. If an application requires more lifting force than the strut provides, you need a stronger strut, not an additional one or an improperly sized strut. Overloading can cause the strut to fail prematurely, potentially leading to damage to the supported component or the strut itself. This is especially important for heavy items or those subject to wind resistance or significant weight shifts. For instance, a garage door reinforcement strut is designed for specific load-bearing, and using undersized gas struts would be a critical error.
Ensure that the mounting points are robust and can withstand the forces exerted by the strut. Weak or damaged mounting points can lead to strut detachment or structural failure, creating a safety hazard. Verify that strut angle brackets and any other mounting hardware are securely fastened and in good condition.
Environment and Storage
Store any spare gas struts in a cool, dry place, ideally in their original packaging. Do not store them for extended periods in a fully compressed or extended state without use, as this can sometimes affect seal performance over time. While this is less of a concern for installed struts, it's a good practice for inventory management. Extreme temperatures can also affect gas pressure and seal performance, so avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or freezing conditions when possible.
By adhering to these prevention strategies, you ensure that your chosen gas struts continue to function optimally, providing reliable support and safe operation for years to come, far beyond the initial selection process guided by a gas strut size chart.