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Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring for a Gas Spring Replacement

Replacing a worn-out gas spring, whether on your car's hatchback, a tool chest lid, or boat hatch is a straightforward task. The key to a successful replacement lies in accurate measurements to ensure the new strut fits and functions correctly. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to measure for a replacement gas spring, no technical expertise required.

What You'll Need:

A tape measure or ruler

A notepad and pen, or your phone's notes app

Optional:

A vernier caliper for more precise diameter measurements

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Step 1: Measure the Extended Length

The most critical measurement is the full length of the gas spring when it is completely open or extended.

How to do it: With the lid, door, or hatch fully open, measure from the center of the top mounting point (end fitting) to the center of the bottom mounting point. It's a good practice to have someone support the object the gas spring is holding, just in case it begins to close.

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(Image: A diagram or photo clearly showing the extended length measurement from the center of each end fitting.)

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Step 2: Measure the Stroke Length

The stroke is the distance the rod (the thinner part) travels in and out of the cylinder (the thicker part).

How to do it: While the gas spring is still fully extended, measure the length of the exposed rod from the edge of the main cylinder to the center of the end fitting.

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(Image: A close-up image illustrating the measurement of the exposed rod, indicating the stroke length.)

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Step 3: Measure the Diameters

You will need to measure the diameter of both the rod and the cylinder. These measurements ensure the replacement spring will fit within the existing space and mounting hardware.

How to do it: Rod Diameter: Measure the thickness of the thinner, shiny rod. Common sizes are 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 14mm.Cylinder Diameter: Measure the thickness of the wider, main body of the gas spring. Typical diameters include 15mm, 18mm, 23mm, and 28mm.

A vernier caliper will provide the most accurate measurements for the diameters, but a tape measure can also be used.(Image: Two separate images or a single composite image showing how to measure the diameter of the rod and the cylinder.)

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Step 4: Identify the Force Rating

The force of a gas spring is measured in Newtons (N) and is crucial for ensuring the replacement can support the weight of the object it's lifting.

How to find it: Look for a number followed by "N" printed on the body of the gas spring. It might be part of a longer part number. Common examples are 300N or 750N.

What if there's no label? If the force is not visible, you may need to estimate the weight of the object the gas spring is lifting.

We offer a design service to help you determine the required force based on the weight and dimensions of the application.

<Link to Zoho application form>

(Image: A picture of a gas spring with the force rating clearly circled.)

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Step 5: Note the End Fittings

Finally, take a close look at how the gas spring attaches at both ends. These are the end fittings.

What to look for: Common types include ball and socket joints, eyelets, or clevis forks. Take a clear photo of each end fitting to show your supplier or to match with our online options. This ensures your new gas spring will connect correctly to the existing mounting points(Image: A collage of different common end fittings to help with identification.)Once you have this information please use our enquiry form.

<LINK TO Zoho ProductDetails FORM on website - or embed here>