Answer: When selecting gas struts for hatch lids, choose models with the right extended and compressed lengths, correct force (pounds or Newtons), and compatible mounting options for your lid weight. The top picks below cover RV beds, storage hatches, car hatches, and cabinet doors, helping buyers match strength and travel range to their specific lid weight and opening angle. Best fits are for heavy-duty lids on campers, trucks, and SUVs, with some options optimized for lighter cabinet lids.
| Product | Best For | Key Strength | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARANA C1608054 20″ Gas Struts | RV beds, camper lids | 100 lb per pair | Heavy lids up to 110 lb |
| NIDAYE 2 Pack 10″ Gas Struts | Small lids, cabinets, boxes | 22 lb per strut | Compact lids, lightweight boxes |
| AiYiGu SG350008 Rear Hatch Shocks | Kia Soul hatch/compact SUVs | — | Rear hatch lift assistance |
| AUCLIDIS GSNI-5300-60 20″ Gas Struts | RV beds, cargo doors | 60 lb per strut | Balanced mid-weight lids |
| PAMAGOO 20″ 100 lb Gas Struts | Heavy lids for RVs and cabinets | 100–140 lb capacity | Heavy-duty lids, wide applications |
ARANA C1608054 20″ Gas Struts – 2 Pack
These ARANA gas struts are sold as a 2-pack, each delivering 100 pounds of lift support. Extended length is about 19.7 inches and compressed length about 11.8 inches, with interchangeability noted by several part numbers (6939, 6939S10, C1608054, C16-08054). Best for heavy lids that require a robust lift, such as camper shell doors, RV beds, storage hatches, or tonneau covers. They are recommended where a lid weight falls within the 85–110 pounds range per pair.
Best for: RV bed and camper lid applications where you need strong, consistent lift force to hold a heavy hatch open. This model is less suited to very light lids or ones requiring a much shorter travel.
Limitation: Package excludes mounting brackets; you must source brackets separately if needed.
NIDAYE 2 Pack 10 Inch Gas Struts
These 10-inch gas struts are designed for lighter lids and smaller openings, offering about 22 pounds of force per strut and an approximately 9-11/16 inch extended length with a 6-1/8 inch compression between mounts. They provide stable support for cabinet doors, small hatch lids, and outdoor benches. They allow lids to lift to about 100 degrees and are suitable for temperature ranges from -11°C to 50°C. They’re a good choice where space is tight yet a smooth lift is needed.
Best for: Lighter lids such as cabinet doors, small tool boxes, or shallow RV storage compartments where compact length matters. Not ideal for heavy or high-tension lids that require 80+ pounds of lift per side.
Caution: Check exact lid weight and hinge geometry to ensure proper fit and travel range; these are not soft-close models.
AiYiGu SG350008 Rear Hatch Shocks
AiYiGu SG350008 is marketed for compatibility with specific Kia Soul years (2010–2013). It is a rear hatch support pair intended to replace OEM parts and provide reliable lift for a rear hatch or cargo lid. The kit lists compressed length of 11.06 inches and extended length of 17.87 inches, making it suitable where the original strut length matches these dimensions. Best for: Kia Soul owners needing a direct replacement with predictable lifting performance.
Limitation: Designed for a particular vehicle model range; not a universal fit for all hatchbacks or SUVs.
AUCLIDIS GSNI-5300-60 20″ Gas Struts
AUCLIDIS GSNI-5300-60 gas struts are specified as 20 inches in length with a 60 lb per strut rating, offered as a set of two. They’re positioned for RV bed storage doors, cargo compartments, and camper shells where a mid-weight lift is appropriate. The extended length is around 19.69 inches and compressed length around 12.20 inches, with guidance on matching original OEM numbers to ensure compatibility. Best for: medium-weight lids where a balanced lift and travel range are required.
Limitation: Lower lift per strut compared to heavier-duty options; ensure your lid weight aligns with the combined capacity of both struts.
PAMAGOO 20″ 100 lb Gas Struts
PAMAGOO offers a heavy-duty pair of gas struts rated at 100 pounds per strut (up to 140 pounds capacity in some use cases). They are 20 inches long extended and 12.13 inches compressed. This kit includes L-type mounting brackets for DIY window, cabinet, and lid applications, making it a flexible option for RV beds, heavy cabinet doors, and tool boxes. Best for: high-load lids and DIY projects needing robust, long-travel gas springs. Choose this if you need a pair that can handle heavier lids without compromise.
Limitation: Brackets are included as L-type, but installation compatibility should be confirmed with your exact hinge geometry and mounting surface.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Gas Struts For Hatch Lids
- Match the lift force to lid weight: Use a per-pair rating that comfortably supports the lid weight, with a small safety margin to account for dynamic loads when opening or closing.
- Check extended and compressed lengths: Ensure the strut’s travel (from fully closed to fully open) fits the hinge and opening angle of your hatch or lid.
- Consider mounting hardware: Some sets exclude mounting brackets; others include L-type or standard brackets. Verify compatibility with your lid and mounting surface.
- Evaluate compatibility with lid type: Heavier lids (RV beds, large tool boxes) need stronger struts; lighter cabinet doors can use shorter, lower-force models.
- Temperature and environment: For outdoor use, choose models rated for wide temperature ranges and corrosion resistance if exposed to moisture or salt air.
- Replacement compatibility: If replacing an OEM part, compare OEM numbers and cylinder dimensions to avoid misfits.
- Durability and maintenance: Look for sets with robust seals and piston design that can withstand repeated cycles without loss of performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What weight should I choose for hatch struts?
– Choose per-strut or per-pair capacity that surpasses the lid’s weight with a safety margin; heavier lids typically use 60–100+ lb per strut pair. - How do I measure the correct length?
– Measure the fully closed and fully open positions of your lid and select struts with matching extended and compressed lengths. - Are brackets included?
– Some products include brackets; others require separate purchase. Check product details before buying. - Can I use the same struts for different lids?
– It’s possible if the lengths and lift ratings align with the new lid’s weight and mounting geometry; otherwise, adjustments are needed. - Do these operate in cold weather?
– Many are designed for broad temperature ranges, but extremely cold conditions may affect performance; consider models rated for low temperatures. - Is a higher lift always better?
– Not necessarily. Use a lift that matches lid weight and desired opening angle; excessive force can cause abrupt opening or wear mounting points.