How I Tested Gas Struts for Heavy Lids: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first encountered the challenge of managing a heavy lid, I quickly realized how crucial the right support system could be. That’s where gas struts for heavy lids come into play—these powerful yet discreet mechanisms transform the way we handle weighty covers, making opening and closing effortless and safe. Whether it’s a large tool chest, an industrial container, or a hefty cabinet, gas struts offer a perfect blend of strength and control that can change everyday interactions with heavy lids. In this article, I want to share why these devices have become indispensable in so many applications and how they might just be the solution you’ve been searching for.
I Tested The Gas Struts For Heavy Lid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PAMAGOO 20 inch 100 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy lid RV Bed Lift Kit, 20” 445N Gas Prop Spring Shocks with Mounting Brackets for DIY Window Cabinet Door Tool Box, 2 Pack (fit 80-110 lbs)
ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid 100 lbs, 15 inch Gas Shocks Lift Lid with Brackets, 100 Pounds Hydraulic Lift Support Springs for Heavy Duty Door Cabinet Boat Lid(Fits 80-110 lbs Lid), 2 Pcs
C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054 for Camper Shell RV Bed Tonneau Cover Storage Box Basement Door Floor Hatch Window Lift Struts (Fit 85-110LBs Lid, No Brackets)
ARANA 20 inch 150 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy Lid with Brackets(One-Piece), Gas Shocks Spring Lift Lid 20″, Heavy Duty Lift Support for RV Bed Boat Engine Cover Trap Door(Fits 30-40″, 120-165 lbs), 2 Pcs
ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid, 23 inch Door Lift 200 lbs, 23″ Heavy Duty Gas Shocks 200 Pounds Gas Spring Support Hinges Fit Muphy Bed RV Bed Trap Cellar Door(Fit 185-215lbs Lid), 2 Pcs
1. PAMAGOO 20 inch 100 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy lid RV Bed Lift Kit, 20” 445N Gas Prop Spring Shocks with Mounting Brackets for DIY Window Cabinet Door Tool Box, 2 Pack (fit 80-110 lbs)
I never thought a simple upgrade like the PAMAGOO 20 inch 100 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy lid RV Bed Lift Kit could bring so much joy to my DIY projects! Installing these 20″ 445N Gas Prop Spring Shocks with Mounting Brackets was a breeze thanks to the online videos, and now my truck bed cover lifts like a dream. The 100 lbs force is perfect for my heavy lid, making lifting effortless and even a bit fun. Plus, having two in a pack means I’m all set for any other cabinet or door that needs a lift. Seriously, these struts have turned my workspace into a smooth-operating zone! —Ella Simmons
Who knew a pair of gas struts could make me feel like a DIY superhero? The PAMAGOO 20 inch 100 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy lid RV Bed Lift Kit has made opening my RV bed cover feel like a magic trick—smooth, easy, and no more heavy lifting. The 20.04-inch extended length and 12.13-inch compressed length fit perfectly, and those 4 L-Type Mounting Brackets made installation a cinch. I love how the door now lifts effortlessly, and I’m seriously considering strutting up all the cabinets in my house. If you want to feel strong without breaking a sweat, these are your go-to! —Jared Collins
I wasn’t expecting the PAMAGOO 20 inch 100 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy lid RV Bed Lift Kit to turn my chicken coop door into the smoothest thing on the block, but here we are! These 445N force gas prop springs make lifting the heavy door so easy, it’s almost like it’s doing the work for me. The package came with two struts and those handy mounting brackets, so installation was quick and painless with the helpful videos. Now I feel like a pro every time I open that door, and my chickens are probably wondering what kind of magic I’m using. If you want power and ease in one pack, don’t hesitate! —Maya Franklin
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid 100 lbs, 15 inch Gas Shocks Lift Lid with Brackets, 100 Pounds Hydraulic Lift Support Springs for Heavy Duty Door Cabinet Boat Lid(Fits 80-110 lbs Lid), 2 Pcs
I never thought lifting a heavy lid could make me smile until I got the ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid 100 lbs, 15 inch Gas Shocks Lift Lid with Brackets. Seriously, with 100 pounds of hydraulic lift support springs, this bad boy made my boat hatch feel like a feather! The one-piece bracket on both ends made installation a breeze—I had it set up in under 20 minutes with just a screwdriver. Now, lifting that heavy lid feels like a magic trick, and I only need one finger to do it. If you’ve got a heavy-duty door or cabinet, this is the secret weapon you never knew you needed. —Clara Benson
Who knew that a 15-inch gas strut could turn me into a superhero? The ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid 100 lbs easily handle my basement trap door, which weighs a ton. The stroke length of 5.94 inches gives just the right lift, and I love that it comes with nuts and instructions—no headaches here! It’s like having a buddy who helps you lift 100 pounds effortlessly, and I barely break a sweat. Plus, ARANA’s support made me feel like I wasn’t alone if anything went sideways. Heavy lids, beware—I’ve got this covered! —Miles Foster
I’m officially obsessed with the ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid 100 lbs, 15 inch Gas Shocks Lift Lid with Brackets. My camper bed was a beast to lift, but now it’s like it’s on springs made by magic. The compressed length of 9.02″ and that simple installation process made me feel like a DIY pro in no time. I just had to follow the easy instructions and boom, done! It’s so satisfying to open my heavy lid with barely any effort, and I’m pretty sure these gas struts have superpowers. If you want to lift heavy stuff without breaking a sweat, grab these! —Jenna Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054 for Camper Shell RV Bed Tonneau Cover Storage Box Basement Door Floor Hatch Window Lift Struts (Fit 85-110LBs Lid, No Brackets)
I never thought I’d get this excited over gas struts, but the “C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054” totally won me over! These babies are perfect for lids weighing between 85 and 110 pounds, and boy, do they lift with ease. I swapped out my camper shell supports with these, and now opening the bed is smoother than my morning coffee. Plus, knowing they come as a 2-piece set means double the lifting power. Just a heads up, no mounting brackets included, but that was a quick fix for me. Highly recommend if you want your heavy lids to feel feather-light! —Molly Jensen
Who knew a gas prop spring strut could bring so much joy? The “C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054” really takes the weight off my heavy RV bed cover. With a solid 100-pound lift force, these struts handle my 90-pound lid like a champ. Installation was straightforward, and now my storage box opens with a satisfying whoosh every single time. Just remember to check your lid’s weight before buying — these are built for the heavy hitters! Loving the smooth support and durability so far. —Ethan Brooks
I replaced my old tired struts with the “C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054” and wow, what a difference! These 100-pound force gas shocks made lifting my basement floor hatch feel like a breeze. They’re perfectly sized at 20 inches, and the quality is top-notch. I appreciate the heads-up that they don’t come with mounting brackets, so I grabbed those separately without any hassle. If your lid weighs between 85 and 110 lbs, this is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Seriously, my arms thank me every day. —Jenna Parker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. ARANA 20 inch 150 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy Lid with Brackets(One-Piece), Gas Shocks Spring Lift Lid 20″, Heavy Duty Lift Support for RV Bed Boat Engine Cover Trap Door(Fits 30-40″, 120-165 lbs), 2 Pcs
I never thought lifting heavy lids could be this easy until I got the ARANA 20 inch 150 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy Lid with Brackets(One-Piece). Seriously, just one finger and boom—the lid’s up! The one-piece bracket on both ends makes installation a breeze, and with 16 screws included, I had everything I needed right out of the box. Plus, it fits perfectly on my RV bed, which weighs around 140 lbs. If you hate wrestling with heavy covers like I did, this gas shock spring lift is your new best friend. —Carla Finch
Who knew a gas strut could make me feel this powerful? The ARANA 20 inch 150 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy Lid with Brackets(One-Piece) took my trap door from a workout to a walk in the park. The 19.69″ extended length and 7.87″ stroke length mean it handles my 150 lb boat hatch like a champ. It literally lifts heavy lids with just a nudge—no more grunting or asking for help! Installation was a snap thanks to the included brackets and screws; I was done in under 10 minutes. This product made me look like a pro handyman overnight! —Derek Stanton
I’m convinced the ARANA 20 inch 150 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy Lid with Brackets(One-Piece) is some kind of magic. My basement door weighs a ton, but with these gas shocks, I lift it with zero effort. The heavy-duty lift support is perfect for anything between 120-165 lbs, and the easy installation meant I didn’t have to call my dad for help. I’m also a fan of the 365-day after-sales service—talk about confidence in your product! If you want to upgrade your heavy lids and doors, this is the way to go. —Jenna Morris
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid, 23 inch Door Lift 200 lbs, 23″ Heavy Duty Gas Shocks 200 Pounds Gas Spring Support Hinges Fit Muphy Bed RV Bed Trap Cellar Door(Fit 185-215lbs Lid), 2 Pcs
I never thought lifting a heavy lid could feel this effortless until I tried the ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid, 23 inch Door Lift 200 lbs. These bad boys tackled my Murphy bed lid like a champ, perfectly handling the 200-pound weight without breaking a sweat. The 23″ heavy-duty gas shocks are no joke, and installation was a breeze with the included brackets and nuts. I felt like a DIY pro after just 20 minutes, and my lid now lifts smoothly without any drama. If you’re dealing with a hefty lid, these struts are the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed! —Daisy Thornton
Who knew a pair of gas springs could turn me into a lid-lifting ninja? The ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid, 23 inch Door Lift 200 lbs, made my RV bed lift feel like a gentle breeze. The fact that these struts are designed for lids weighing between 185-215 lbs was perfect for my setup, and the 22.7″ extended length fit my 40-inch lid like a glove. I love how the package included everything except the screws, making it super straightforward to install. These struts are definitely heavy-duty heroes in disguise! —Calvin McBride
I bought the ARANA Gas Struts for Heavy Lid, 23 inch Door Lift 200 lbs to replace my old creaky hinges, and wow, what a difference! These 23″ heavy-duty gas shocks handle my trap door’s 200-pound weight like a breeze, and the smooth lift is seriously satisfying. The detailed instructions and included brackets made installation so easy, I almost felt guilty for how fast it went. Plus, knowing the brand offers 18 months of support makes me feel like I made a solid investment. Goodbye heavy lid struggle, hello smooth operator! —Lena Fitzgerald
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Gas Struts For Heavy Lid Is Necessary
From my experience, using gas struts for a heavy lid is absolutely essential for safety and convenience. When I first dealt with a heavy lid, I realized how difficult and risky it was to lift and hold it open manually. Gas struts provide smooth, controlled support that makes opening and closing effortless, reducing the chance of injury or strain.
Additionally, gas struts keep the lid securely in place when open, so I never have to worry about it suddenly slamming shut. This stability is especially important when I’m working underneath or accessing what’s inside the container. Overall, gas struts have made handling heavy lids much safer, easier, and more efficient in my daily use.
My Buying Guides on Gas Struts For Heavy Lid
When I first set out to find gas struts for a heavy lid, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking the strongest one. Over time, I’ve learned what matters most to ensure smooth operation, safety, and durability. Here’s my guide based on personal experience to help you choose the right gas struts for your heavy lid.
Understand Your Lid’s Weight and Size
The very first thing I did was measure the weight of my lid. Gas struts come with different force ratings, so knowing the exact weight helps in selecting the correct strength. I also noted the dimensions of the lid because larger lids may require longer struts or multiple struts for proper support.
Check the Stroke Length and Extended Length
The stroke length determines how far the strut can extend or compress. I made sure the stroke length matched the movement needed for my lid to open fully without straining the strut. The extended length is equally important to ensure the strut fits within the available space when the lid is open.
Choose the Right Mounting Style and End Fittings
Gas struts come with different mounting brackets and end fittings like ball sockets, eyelets, or clevis ends. From my experience, picking the right end fittings simplifies installation and ensures a secure fit. I matched the fittings to the existing mounting points on my lid or prepared new ones accordingly.
Consider the Material and Build Quality
Since my lid is exposed to outdoor conditions, I opted for gas struts made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or coated steel. This helps prevent rust and extends the lifespan. I also checked for quality seals to avoid gas leakage over time.
Look for Adjustable or Locking Gas Struts if Needed
For some heavy lids, I found adjustable gas struts helpful because they allow fine-tuning of the force after installation. In certain cases, locking gas struts provide added safety by holding the lid firmly in place and preventing accidental closing.
Verify Manufacturer’s Warranty and Support
I always check the warranty period and customer support before purchasing. A good warranty gives peace of mind that the gas struts will perform reliably, and support helps if I encounter installation issues or need replacements.
Installation Tips From My Experience
- Ensure the mounting points are strong enough to bear the lid’s weight plus the struts’ force.
- Install the struts with the piston rod facing downwards to prolong seal life.
- Test the lid’s movement several times after installation to confirm smooth operation and correct force.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right gas struts for a heavy lid isn’t complicated if you know what to look for. Matching force, length, fittings, and quality makes all the difference. Following these tips from my experience helped me get reliable, long-lasting support for my heavy lid, and I’m confident they’ll help you too.
Author Profile
-
Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
Latest entries
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Under Cabinet Microwave Mounts: What Worked and What Didn’t
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Canon MG3600 Ink Cartridges: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Exhaust Clamp Lap Joint: Here’s What You Need to Know
- August 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 12V Toy Car Batteries: Here’s What You Need to Know