How to Install Gas Struts: A Simple 3-Step Guide

Installing gas struts may seem difficult at first, but the process is straightforward when you choose the right gas spring and install it at the correct mounting points.

Whether you’re installing gas struts on a cabinet door, storage box, RV hatch, or other lift-up panel, this guide will show you how to choose the right gas strut, install it properly, and adjust the mounting position if needed.

Step 1: Choose the Right Gas Strut

Before installation, you need to choose a gas strut with the appropriate length, stroke, and force for your application.

The correct gas strut depends on factors such as:

• The weight and size of the lid
• The hinge position
• The desired opening angle
• The number of gas struts
• Available mounting space

Apexstone’s gas strut calculator can help you determine the recommended gas spring specifications. Simply enter the required measurements and use the results to select a suitable lift support.

For example, if you are installing a pair of 10-inch 100N gas struts, check the mounting instructions for that specific model before drilling any holes. Mounting dimensions can vary between different gas springs.

Step 2: Install the Gas Struts

Once you’ve selected the right gas strut, the most important part is choosing the correct mounting points.

Find the Mounting Points

Always start with the mounting diagram for your specific gas spring.

For example, the recommended mounting points for an Apexstone 10-inch 100N gas strut may be:

• Top mounting point: 2.8 inches from the box hinge
• Bottom mounting point: 8.9 inches from the horizontal reference line of the piano hinge

These dimensions are a starting point for this specific application and should not be treated as universal measurements.

Mark the mounting points carefully, then check that the gas strut will have enough clearance throughout the entire opening and closing movement.

Attach the Gas Struts

After confirming the mounting positions, drill the required holes and securely attach the mounting brackets.

Connect the gas strut between the fixed and moving mounting points.

When the application allows, the piston rod should generally face downward when the gas spring is in its inactive position. This helps maintain proper lubrication and the intended performance of applicable gas springs. However, always follow the installation instructions for your specific model.

Make sure the gas spring is properly aligned and is not subjected to unnecessary bending or side loads.

Safety tip: Support the lid securely during installation. Never rely on an unsecured lid or gas strut to hold the panel open.

Step 3: Test and Adjust the Installation

After installing the gas struts, carefully test the lid several times.

The lid should open smoothly, remain adequately supported in the intended open position, and close without excessive force.

If the result isn’t satisfactory, you may need to adjust the mounting points.

If the Lid Is Difficult to Close

If the gas strut is difficult to compress or the lid cannot close completely, the effective lifting force may be too high for the current mounting position.

Try moving the mounting points toward a more horizontal position. For the mounting arrangement shown in the Apexstone guide, this can be done by slightly lowering the upper mounting point and moving the lower mounting point farther away.

If the Lid Won’t Lift

If the gas struts cannot lift the lid automatically, the effective lifting force may be too low.

Try moving the mounting points toward a more vertical position.

If the lid still cannot be supported properly after adjusting the mounting points, you may need a gas strut with a higher force rating.

Make small adjustments and test the lid after each change.

Conclusion

Installing gas struts is simple when you follow the correct procedure:

1. Choose the right gas strut.
2. Install it at the recommended mounting points.
3. Test the lid and adjust the mounting position if necessary.

Remember that mounting position is just as important as gas strut force. If the lid is difficult to close or cannot lift properly, adjusting the mounting points may solve the problem.

Not sure which gas strut you need? Use the Apexstone gas strut calculator to find the recommended specifications for your application, or contact our team for assistance.