Ever wrestled with a heavy RV compartment door that just won't stay open? Or tried to lift a bed platform that feels like a ton of bricks? The culprit is almost always a failing gas spring. These small but mighty components are the unsung heroes of your RV, using compressed nitrogen gas to make heavy lids and doors feel practically weightless. When it’s time to replace them, using a good RV gas spring selection guide will help you get the sizing and force right the first time.
What Are RV Gas Springs and Why They Fail
Think of an RV gas spring—often called a gas strut or gas shock—as a tiny hydraulic assistant for your rig. It's a sealed cylinder filled with pressurized nitrogen gas and a small amount of oil. When you open a door, the gas provides the lifting force, while the oil acts as a damper, ensuring a smooth, controlled motion instead of a sudden pop.
It’s this clever combination that lets a heavy basement door glide open with minimal effort and stay put, freeing up your hands to grab your gear.
The Power of Pressurized Nitrogen
A regular coiled metal spring provides more resistance the further you compress it. A gas spring, on the other hand, delivers a much more consistent force throughout its range of motion. This makes it ideal for RV applications.
Here’s why they’re perfect for the job:
- Controlled Lifting: They provide the initial push to get a heavy lid moving and then guide it smoothly to its fully open position.
- Holding Power: Once extended, the internal pressure holds the door securely in place, so you don't have to prop it open with your head or a stick.
- Dampened Closing: The oil inside prevents the door from slamming shut, protecting your fingers and your RV’s hardware from damage.
These components are more crucial than ever in modern RV design. The global market for gas springs is massive, valued at US$2,884.48 million and on track to hit US$4,113.18 million by 2031. For RV owners, this means more innovation and better replacement options are always becoming available. If you're interested, you can read up on these market trends and see how they impact the parts we rely on.
Why Do Gas Springs Eventually Fail?
As durable as they are, gas springs have a finite lifespan. Their weak point is the high-pressure seals that trap the nitrogen gas inside. Over thousands of cycles of opening and closing, these seals gradually wear down.
A failing gas spring isn't just an annoyance; it's a potential safety hazard. A heavy compartment door that suddenly falls can cause serious injury, making timely replacement a critical maintenance task.
As the seals degrade, nitrogen slowly leaks out. Bit by bit, the internal pressure drops, and the spring loses its lifting power. The first sign you’ll likely notice is a door that won’t stay open on a cold morning, since lower temperatures reduce gas pressure. Eventually, it won’t hold at all, leaving you in the frustrating and risky situation of needing to prop doors open manually.
Where to Find Every Gas Spring on Your Rig
Gas springs are everywhere in your RV, often hiding in plain sight. Knowing where they are is the first step to diagnosing a problem or planning a replacement. Think of this as a quick inspection tour of your rig to identify all the places these powerful assistants are working for you.
Every RV is different, but you'll consistently find them wherever heavy lifting or steady support is needed, from large Class A motorhomes to small travel trailers. When a bay door starts to sag or an overhead cabinet lid won't stay put, you’ll know exactly what component to check, saving you a ton of frustration on your next trip.
Exterior Compartment Doors
The most common and hardest-working RV gas springs are on the outside of your rig. Take a walk around and open your large "basement" storage doors. Those heavy, side-hinged doors are almost always held open by one or two powerful gas springs.
These are typically high-force struts because they have to lift and hold significant weight against gravity. When one of these fails, the door becomes a heavy, dead weight that’s difficult to lift and a real danger if it slams shut. You'll also find smaller gas springs on generator, battery, or propane tank compartment doors.
Interior Storage and Access Panels
Inside your RV, gas springs add convenience and a touch of luxury. You'll find them in numerous places, making daily life on the road smoother.
Here are a few common spots to check inside:
- Under-Bed Storage: The platform under your main bed often lifts to reveal a large storage area. Gas springs are what make lifting the heavy mattress and plywood base feel almost effortless.
- Overhead Cabinets: Many RVs feature upward-opening cabinet doors, especially over the dinette or sofa. Small, low-force gas springs hold them open so you can use both hands to get what you need.
- Engine Access Hatches: In many Class A motorhomes, there's an interior access panel to the engine in the rear bedroom. Gas springs are essential here for safely holding the heavy, insulated hatch open while you or a mechanic are working.
- Entry Doors: Some RVs use a gas strut on the main entry door. It acts as a holder and damper, keeping the door from swinging shut or flying open in a strong gust of wind.
The demand for these parts is significant. The global gas spring market is projected to grow from USD 3,711 million to USD 5,939.43 million by 2032. With RVs being a key driver in the automotive sector—which holds a 44.8% market share—it’s clear these components are essential to modern RV design. You can check out more data on the growth of the gas spring market to see how this innovation is helping RV owners.
Specialized Applications on Your Rig
Beyond the usual spots, manufacturers get creative with gas springs. Depending on your RV's make and model, you might find them in some surprising places.
For instance, some toy haulers use massive gas springs to help lower and raise the rear ramp door. You might also spot them on the fold-out bunk ends of a hybrid trailer or assisting with the roof lift on a pop-up camper. Knowing all these locations helps you perform a quick visual check as part of your regular maintenance—a key habit for any DIYer taking care of their RV parts.
By identifying every gas spring on your RV, you're not just finding parts; you're mapping out the key points of convenience and safety. A quick monthly check of these locations can help you spot a failing strut before it becomes a headache or a hazard.
How to Measure for a Perfect Replacement
Ordering the wrong RV gas spring is a common and frustrating mistake that costs you time and money. It’s like buying a part for your engine without knowing the model year—it simply won't fit or work correctly. This section will demystify the measurement process so you can get it right the first time.
Taking ten minutes to measure accurately will save you the headache of returns and the danger of installing an incorrect part. When your new strut arrives, you want it to snap right into place and function exactly like the original. Mastering a few key measurements is the secret to making that happen. For a full walkthrough on picking the right length and force, you can also reference our dedicated RV gas spring selection guide.
The Three Critical Measurements You Cannot Skip
Before buying a new strut, you need to get three key pieces of information from the old one. These numbers are the universal language of gas springs and are essential for ensuring your new part fits correctly and provides the proper lifting power.
Let’s break down exactly what you need to measure:
- Extended Length: The total length of the strut when it's fully open, measured from the center of one mounting point to the center of the other.
- Compressed Length: The strut's length when fully closed, also measured from center to center of the mounting points.
- Force Rating: The most crucial spec, indicating the lifting force the spring provides. It is usually printed on the cylinder in pounds (LBS) or Newtons (N).
Nailing these three details is the foundation for finding a perfect replacement. Without them, you're just guessing, which can lead to damaged hinges or a door that still won't stay open.
Pro Tip: If a door uses two gas springs, always replace them in pairs. Even if only one has failed, the other has endured the same wear and is likely close to failing. Mismatched springs can cause the door to twist or close unevenly, leading to more significant problems down the road.
To make it even easier, here's a quick reference guide for the measurements you'll need. Jot these down as you measure, and you'll be all set to find the right part.
Essential Measurements for Your RV Gas Spring
| Measurement | How to Measure | Why It's Critical |
|---|---|---|
| Extended Length | Measure from the center of one end fitting to the center of the other with the strut fully open. | Determines the maximum opening distance. If it's too long or short, the door won't open correctly. |
| Compressed Length | Measure from center to center of the end fittings with the strut fully closed. | Ensures the door can close completely without the strut bottoming out and damaging the mounts. |
| Force Rating (LBS/N) | Look for a number printed on the strut's cylinder (e.g., "100 LBS" or "445 N"). | This is the lifting power. Too weak, and the door won't stay up. Too strong, and it could damage hinges. |
With these three numbers in hand, you have everything you need to confidently shop for a replacement.
A Step-by-Step Measuring Process
Let's grab a tape measure and get this done. The process is simple, but precision is key.
- Support the Door Securely: Safety first. Before touching the old strut, prop the compartment door or bed platform open with a sturdy 2×4 or have a friend hold it securely. A failing strut can give way unexpectedly.
- Measure the Extended Length: With the door fully open and supported, measure from the center of the top mounting socket to the center of the bottom one. This is your extended length. Write it down immediately.
- Remove the Old Strut: Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry up the metal retaining clip on the end fitting. You don’t need to remove the clip completely—just lift it enough to pop the socket off the ball stud. Do this for both ends.
- Measure the Compressed Length: With the old strut off, carefully compress it by hand as far as it will go. Measure from center to center of the end fittings again. This is your compressed length. Write it down.
This simple process gives you the two most critical physical dimensions you need. Now, you just have to find its power rating.
This infographic shows some of the most common places you'll find these essential parts working hard on your RV.
As you can see, from heavy basement doors to interior cabinets, these little gas springs are doing a lot of heavy lifting all over your rig.
What to Do When the Force Rating is Gone
The force rating is usually printed on a label on the strut's cylinder, but this label can fade, peel off, or become unreadable after years of exposure to the elements. Don't worry—you still have options.
If the label is gone, first check the other strut if it's part of a pair; the part number might still be legible. If not, try searching online RV forums or parts diagrams for your RV’s make, model, and year. Often, another owner has already figured this out.
If that fails, you can use a bathroom scale to get a rough estimate. With the strut disconnected, place the scale under the door near the mounting point to measure the weight it must support. This gives you a good starting point. However, it's often best to consult an RV parts specialist with this information to ensure you select the correct force. Choosing a spring that’s too strong is just as bad as one that’s too weak—it can put immense stress on your hinges and mounting hardware.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Replacing RV Gas Springs
Now that you have the perfect measurements for your new RV gas springs, it’s time for the installation. Replacing a gas strut is one of the most satisfying DIY jobs on an RV because it’s quick, requires minimal tools, and makes a huge difference in convenience and safety.
This guide will walk you through the process step by step, so you can get it done correctly and safely. Most of the time, all you'll need is a small flathead screwdriver, safety glasses, and a rag to wipe down the mounting points.
Preparing for a Safe Installation
Before you touch the old strut, your number one priority is safety. A failing gas spring can give out completely at any moment, and you don't want a heavy compartment door slamming down on your head or hands.
First, open the door or lid all the way. Next, prop it open with something solid and trustworthy, like a sturdy piece of wood or a telescoping support rod. Do not just have a friend hold it; you need a reliable support that won't slip while you're working. Once the door is safely propped, you're ready to begin.
Removing the Old Gas Spring
With the door securely propped, removing the old strut is simple. Most RV gas springs use a ball-and-socket connection held in place by a small metal retaining clip.
- Locate the Retaining Clip: Examine the end fitting where the strut connects to the ball stud on the RV. You will see a thin metal band or C-clip around the socket.
- Pry the Clip Open: Take your small flathead screwdriver and slide it under the edge of this clip. Gently pry it upward just enough to loosen the socket's grip on the ball stud. You do not need to remove the clip completely.
- Pop the Strut Off: Once the clip is loose, the end fitting should pop off the ball stud with a gentle pull.
- Repeat on the Other End: Do the exact same thing on the other end of the strut. The old gas spring is now removed.
Installing the New RV Gas Spring
Installing the new part is even easier than removing the old one. The new sockets are designed to snap into place without any tools.
Before you install, take a moment to wipe down the ball studs on the door and frame with your rag. This ensures a clean, solid connection for the new strut. Getting comfortable with small repairs like this, or learning how to replace an RV window, builds the confidence needed for larger projects down the road.
Now for the final steps:
- Align the New Strut: Hold the new gas spring up to the mounting points to get it into position.
- Snap It On: Firmly press the socket on one end of the new strut directly onto its matching ball stud. You should hear and feel a solid "click" as it snaps securely into place.
- Attach the Second End: Repeat the process for the other end, pushing firmly until it clicks into place.
- Test It Out: Carefully remove the prop holding the door open. Slowly open and close the door a few times to ensure the new strut is working smoothly and providing the correct amount of lift.
Crucial Pro-Tip: Always install your new gas spring with the thicker cylinder part at the top and the thinner piston rod pointing downwards. This "rod-down" orientation is key—it uses gravity to keep the internal seals lubricated with oil, which prevents premature wear and will dramatically extend the life of your new strut.
Troubleshooting Common Gas Spring Problems
Even with a brand-new strut, sometimes things don't feel right. Maybe your storage bay door still sags, or worse, it now flings open with excessive force. This guide will help you diagnose and fix the most common issues with your RV gas springs.
Recognizing the symptoms will help you get straight to the root cause without guesswork, saving you the frustration and cost of buying another replacement part you don't need.
Door or Lid Still Won't Stay Open
This is the most frequent complaint and usually points to one of two culprits. While a new spring can occasionally be faulty, the more likely reason is an insufficient force rating.
If the force rating on your original strut was unreadable, you might have chosen a replacement that’s too weak for the job. Remember, a 40 lb. door needs a spring (or a pair of springs) capable of handling that specific load. If the spring is underpowered, it simply can't provide enough force to hold the door open.
Door Flies Open or Is a Bear to Close
The opposite problem is just as common. If your compartment door now launches open or requires significant effort to close, you've installed a gas spring that is too powerful. This is a serious issue that can cause expensive damage over time.
Installing a gas spring with too much force can bend hinges, warp the door frame, and even crack the fiberglass around the mounting points. It’s always better to match the original force rating exactly rather than going stronger.
All that extra stress causes premature failure of not just the strut, but the door itself. A properly specified strut should provide smooth, controlled assistance, not an aggressive shove.
The Impact of Cold Weather
Have you noticed your gas springs feel sluggish on a chilly morning? This is completely normal physics. The nitrogen gas inside the cylinder contracts in cold temperatures, temporarily reducing the internal pressure and lifting force.
This means a strut that works perfectly in summer might struggle to hold a door open when the temperature drops near freezing. It doesn't mean the spring has failed; its strength will return as the day warms up. It’s a good idea to include a strut check in your seasonal prep, which you can easily add to a comprehensive RV maintenance checklist.
How to Confirm You Chose the Right Specs
If you suspect you have the wrong part, double-check your specs. Grab your tape measure and confirm that the extended and compressed lengths of the new spring match the old one. Most importantly, verify that the force rating is correct for the weight of your door.
Getting these parts right is critical, which is why the gas springs market is so big. Valued at USD 2.4 billion, the sector is growing at a 4.2% rate, largely driven by industries like RV manufacturing. While cars and trucks hold a 42% share of the market, RVs are a huge part of aftermarket sales, especially for models in that popular 251-500N force range used for everything from storage bays to trailer ramps.
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Gas Springs
When dealing with RV maintenance, small parts like gas springs can often cause the most confusion. Getting the details right not only saves you a headache but can also prevent damage to your rig. We’ve compiled the most common questions from RVers about RV gas springs to give you clear, straightforward answers.
Can I Use a Stronger Gas Spring to Lift a Heavy Door?
It’s tempting to think that a stronger spring is an upgrade, but this is one of the most common and costly mistakes an RVer can make. A gas spring that is too powerful is a recipe for disaster.
It will do more than just make the door hard to shut; it puts constant, excessive force on the door's hinges, frame, and mounting points.
Over time, this intense pressure can bend your door's hinges, warp the frame, and even cause stress cracks in the fiberglass or metal. The goal is to assist the lift, not to force it open with a vengeance.
The correct approach is to replace the old spring with a new one that has the exact same force rating. If you can't find the original rating, you need to determine the weight it supports and find a replacement that matches that load precisely. A balanced system works smoothly and protects your RV from unnecessary damage. Our RV gas spring selection guide walks through this process step-by-step.
How Long Should an RV Gas Spring Last?
Like any hardworking part on your RV, gas springs have a limited lifespan. Under normal conditions, a quality gas spring should last 5 to 7 years. However, several factors can shorten that lifespan.
Think of a gas spring's life in terms of cycles—each time you open and close a door is one cycle. The more a door is used, the faster its internal seals wear out.
Here’s what affects how long your springs will last:
- Frequency of Use: The springs on your main storage bay door will wear out much faster than those on a rarely opened access panel.
- Extreme Temperatures: Both scorching heat and freezing cold can degrade the seals and affect gas pressure, accelerating wear.
- Improper Installation: Mounting a spring "rod-up" instead of "rod-down" is a primary cause of early failure because it starves the seals of essential lubrication.
- Environmental Exposure: Road salt, dirt, and moisture can corrode the piston rod and damage the seals, leading to a much shorter life.
Knowing this helps you set realistic expectations for your replacement parts and reinforces why proper installation is so important. For more tips on keeping your RV in top shape, you might find some good info in these other travel and RV-related blog posts.
Why Did My Brand New Gas Spring Fail Already?
It is incredibly frustrating to install a brand-new part only to have it fail within weeks or days. When a new RV gas spring fails prematurely, the culprit is almost always either an installation error or a low-quality part.
The single biggest reason for early failure is mounting the spring upside down. Gas springs must be installed with the cylinder (the fatter part) at the top and the piston rod (the thinner part) pointing down. This "rod-down" orientation allows the small amount of lubricating oil inside to pool around the main seal, keeping it from drying out.
Install it "rod-up," and the oil settles at the wrong end. The seal dries out, cracks, and fails, allowing the pressurized nitrogen to escape. Your new spring quickly becomes useless.
The other factor is part quality. Opting for a cheap, unbranded gas spring might save a few dollars initially, but they often use inferior seals and manufacturing processes. These parts are far more likely to fail under the constant vibration and stress of RV life. Investing in a reputable brand from a trusted supplier ensures you get a part built to last, saving you from doing the same job all over again.
At RVupgrades, we stock a huge selection of high-quality gas springs from trusted brands like JR Products, so you can find the perfect match for your rig. With the right parts and the right knowledge, you can keep every door and lid on your RV working smoothly for years to come.
Use our RV gas spring selection guide to dial in the right size and force, then shop our full lineup of RV gas springs to get your compartments and bed platforms lifting like new again.
