Soft-close gas struts help control the closing motion of lids, covers, and hinged panels, preventing sudden slamming and making them safer and easier to use.
Proper installation is important for smooth and reliable performance. In this guide, we’ll show you how to install Apexstone soft close gas struts, including how to mark the mounting points, install the strut in the correct orientation, and test the lid after installation.
For the Apexstone soft-close gas strut covered in this guide:
The 150N rating refers to the gas strut’s nominal force. It is not a direct lid-weight capacity because actual performance depends on factors such as lid dimensions, weight, hinge location, mounting points, and opening angle.
Each gas strut comes with:
You’ll also need a screwdriver, drill, ruler or measuring tape, and pencil.
Gas struts are pressurized components. Do not disassemble, puncture, burn, bend, or otherwise damage the gas strut or piston rod.
Do not scratch, dent, chip, or paint the exposed piston rod. Do not use a damaged gas strut.
Open the lid or top panel to approximately 95 degrees.
Make sure the lid is stable and cannot fall while you mark the mounting points or install the brackets.
The lower mounting point is Point B.
As a starting position, measure approximately:
Mark the location with a pencil.
These measurements are intended for the recommended installation geometry. The exact position may vary depending on the lid design and hinge location.
The upper mounting point is Point A.
Measure about 4 inches from the hinge on the lid and mark the location, keeping it aligned with Point B.
Next, extend the gas strut to its longest length and check the proposed position.
Before drilling, make sure:
Tip: If possible, temporarily position the brackets and strut before drilling to confirm the mounting geometry.
Once the mounting points are confirmed, pre-drill the holes.
Install:
Secure the brackets firmly with the supplied screws.
For the Apexstone soft-close gas strut described in this guide, install the strut with the piston rod facing upward.
This orientation helps maintain the intended lubrication and damping performance.
Align the end fittings with the ball studs on the mounting brackets.
Press the fittings onto the ball studs until they are securely connected.
Make sure both ends are properly attached and that the strut is aligned with the mounting points.
Avoid side loading or forcing the strut into position.
For a relatively light lid, one gas strut may be sufficient.
As a general guideline, lids weighing more than approximately 30 lb will typically benefit from two struts, with one installed on each side for more balanced control.
However, lid weight alone does not determine the required configuration. Lid dimensions, hinge position, center of gravity, and mounting geometry also affect performance.
If using two struts, repeat the installation process on the opposite side.
Slowly open and close the lid several times.
Check that:
If the lid closes too quickly or too slowly, check the mounting geometry before making further adjustments.
For this Apexstone soft-close gas strut, install the piston rod facing upward.
The recommended dimensions are a starting point. Always check the actual movement of the lid and strut before drilling permanent holes.
Poor alignment can create side loading, which may increase friction and affect the performance and service life of the gas strut.
A heavy or large lid may require two struts for balanced control. If your lid has an unusual size or shape, verify the configuration before installation.
For the Apexstone soft close gas strut covered in this guide, install it with the piston rod facing upward for the intended soft-closing performance.
A single strut may be suitable for a relatively light lid. Heavier lids generally benefit from two struts installed on opposite sides. The correct setup depends on the lid and mounting geometry.
The 150N rating is the nominal force of the gas strut, not a direct lid-weight rating. Actual performance depends on the lid weight, dimensions, hinge location, center of gravity, mounting points, and opening angle.
First, check the strut orientation, mounting-point alignment, and movement path. Side loading or unsuitable mounting geometry can affect the closing motion.
For more detailed solutions, see our guide on how to adjust soft-close gas struts.
If you’re not sure which soft close gas strut or mounting configuration is right for your project, have your lid weight, dimensions, hinge location, and opening angle ready.
These details can help determine the appropriate gas strut configuration for your application.
Soft-close gas struts help control the closing motion of lids, covers, and hinged panels, preventing sudden slamming and making them safer and easier to use.
Have you ever tried to compress a gas strut by hand and found that it is much harder than expected? This is normal. A gas
