Gas Struts Won’t Close? Try This Proven Method

Are you having trouble with gas struts that won’t compress? This could be due to misestimating the door weight or not understanding the gas strut pressure, which can lead to purchasing the wrong size struts. Even experienced users can encounter this issue, so don’t worry—we have solutions to help you resolve it.

In our previous article, “New Gas Struts Won’t Compress? Easy to Fix” we thoroughly covered the causes and included detailed calculations for finding the perfect mounting point. In this guide, we aim to simplify the process. If you’re looking for a simpler and more efficient solution without any math, continue with this guide. It’s easier to follow and has been proven to work!

Replacing The Gas Strut Size, The Easy And Fast Way

As you may know, we have briefly mentioned the solution in that post. Compared with adjusting mounting points, replacing the gas strut size can be an effective alternative. It saves you time on complex calculations but does require spending a bit more on new items. If you are planning to do this, let’s delve into 2 questions: how to select the right gas struts and how to replace them quickly.

1. How to select the right gas strut part?

Step 1: Know your project

To find the right size gas springs for your cabinet, box, or any other project, you only need two pieces of information: the door height and weight. Here’s how to get them:

· Measure the Door Height: Use a tape measure to find the height of the door.
· Weigh the Door: If you can’t remove the door, balance it on a scale using a stick to get an approximate weight. For a precise measurement, you can also check with the seller for the door’s weight.

This process takes less than 10 minutes and will help you select the perfect gas springs for your project.

Step 2: Using the free gas struts calculator

With the data you’ve gathered, you can now use the Apexstone gas struts calculator. It’s user-friendly and simplifies the process, eliminating the need for manual calculations. By default, the calculator assumes you need 2 gas springs, but you can adjust this number if you plan to use more pieces. Enter your information, and the calculator will automatically recommend the appropriate gas strut size for you.

This whole process will at most cost you 1 minute. So, start your easy calculation right now, and enjoy the free price and convenience.

Step 3: Confirm Specification and Place order

Once you know the size you need, just select the ideal size on the product page and place your order. If you need non-standard or oversized specifications that aren’t listed on the shop page, you can customize them through the configuration page.

As outlined in our previous post about ordering custom gas struts, the process is simple. You need to provide three key details: the type of strut ends, the size (including extended length, stroke, rod diameter, and force), and the quantity. Our factory can produce struts with forces up to 1000N, in both short and long extended lengths. To ensure your satisfaction, our service team will confirm the size with you via email before processing your order. Please provide the correct email address and check it within two days after placing your order.

2. How To Replace Gas Strut Parts Quickly?

Now that we have the correct gas strut, let’s proceed with the quick replacement and new installation. If you haven’t removed the wrong parts, we need to start by removing the old gas struts.

Remove the wrong or old gas spring parts First

Struggled with installation before and now finding removal difficult? That’s normal. Don’t worry! we’ve got a simple guide to make removal easy for you.
Step 1: Unscrew the Strut. Begin by unscrewing the gas spring from both connector ends. If you need more guidance, check out our instructional video.
Step 2: Remove the end from the brackets. If it’s a nylon socket end, use a flathead screwdriver to release the metal clip so that you can remove the brackets easily. For a ball socket end, simply unscrew the screws to detach the gas struts.

By following these two steps, you can easily remove the old gas struts, usually in just 2 to 5 minutes.

After removing the old gas struts, it’s time to install the new ones. Just follow the same steps you installed before—it’s an easy task since you’ve done it before.

Quickly Install New Gas Struts- Step by Step

Step 1: Determine New Mounting Points.

Generally, you should choose a new location for drilling holes unless you’re buying gas struts of the same extended length as the originals. If the sizes are matched, you can install them on the existing mounting holes and test their performance. If everything works well, you’re all set. If not, follow the guide to find new installation points.

(1) Confirm Upper Mounting Point First

Typically, place the upper mounting point one-third of the door height away from the piano hinge, and ensure the vertical distance between the upper mounting point and the piano hinge does not exceed half the door height.

(2) About Lower Mounting point

When we have confirmed the upper mounting point, just extend the gas struts fully. The lower mounting point will be where the struts are stretched to their maximum length.

(3) Two Tips For Installation:

Install Vertically: Position the gas struts more vertically rather than horizontally to maximize their supporting force.
Correct Orientation: Ensure the rod is facing downward. This orientation provides better lift support and extends the lifespan of the struts.

Step 2: Connect Gas Struts

In this step, we’ll connect the gas strut ends to the brackets to complete the mounting process. No tools are needed. Just align the ball with the end hole, then press them together until they snap into place.

After completing the installation, you’re 90% of the way there. The final step is to test the performance and make any necessary adjustments for smoother lifting and closing.

Step 3: Testing Performance

Release the door and observe how it closes. Then, lift it manually to see if it moves smoothly to the desired angle.

Step 4: Adjusting When Needed

If the process is smooth, congratulations! If you encounter any issues, these adjustments should help.

(1) If the lid feels too weak, try installing the struts more vertically.
(2) If the lid is too difficult to compress, adjust the struts to a more horizontal position.

Conclusion

Still having trouble with gas struts that won’t close? Don’t wait any longer—this guide will solve your problem quickly. Both choosing the right gas struts and installing them correctly are straightforward. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to email us at [email protected]. We’re here to help!