Gas filled shock absorbers are ideal for RV beds, campers, hatches, and truck lids that need steady, controlled motion. This guide compares five suitable options and clarifies who each product is best for, helping you pick the right lift support or gas shock for lid, hatch, or storage applications. The top picks listed here address a range of needs, from heavy-duty RV beds to compact cabinet lids, with clear guidance on suitability and limitations.
Product Comparison at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut (2 Pack) by ARANA | Camper shells, RV beds, and heavy lids (85-110 lb range) | High lift, 100 lb force per shock; direct replacement for specific lids | Package ships without mounting brackets |
| 2 Pack Extended 10 inch Gas Prop, 100N/22Lbs | RV beds, cabinet lids, outdoor benches | Stable soft-open action; good for moderate lids | Not a soft-close design |
| Short Gas-Filled Tube Shocks, 5 in. Travel (Speedway Motors) | Front/rear axle compatibility for varied setups | Versatile universal fit with adjustable bushings | Standard performance; not specialized for RV bed lids |
| ACDelco Silver 520-116 Gas Charged Rear Shock | Rear suspension and general purpose shock needs | Gas-charged for improved seal life and response | Rear-focused, may not fit all lid applications |
| ACDelco Gold 530-315 Premium Gas Charged Front Shock | Front suspension scenarios needing reliable gas charge | High-quality chrome piston rod and reduced friction | Front-specific application; not a lid lift |
ARANA 20 Inch Gas Struts C1608054 (2 Pack)
The ARANA C1608054 set delivers two 20-inch gas springs with 100 pounds of lift per shock, designed for lids and hatches that weigh roughly 85–110 pounds in total. This makes it suitable for camper shells, RV beds, and certain storage compartments where a strong, controlled lift is required. The extended length is about 19.7 inches when extended, with a compressed length around 11.8 inches, allowing for robust opening motion. Best for heavy lids that must stay open reliably, these are ideal for users who need precise, durable lift support without compromise.
Who it’s best for: Campers, RV owners, and users who need reliable lift for heavier lids like beds or storage hatches. Why selected: High lift force and explicit compatibility notes help prevent mis-purchase. Caution: The package does not include mounting brackets, so you’ll need to source B08MWK6DBF mounting brackets separately if needed.
2 Pack Extended 10 Inch Gas Prop (100N/22Lb)
These 10-inch gas props provide 100N (about 22 lb) of lift per shock and are designed for lid support and window lift tasks across RVs, cabinets, and outdoor benches. The product emphasizes stable, gentle opening up to about 100 degrees, making them a solid choice for smaller lids or light-to-moderate loads. They also note a temperature range that accommodates varied climates, and a high cycle tolerance, suggesting reliability for frequent use.
Who it’s best for: RV owners or outdoor furniture users seeking a balance of light-to-moderate lift with smooth operation. Why selected: Simple, compact size pairs well with smaller lids while offering consistent lift. Caution: Not a soft-close mechanism; lids may drop quickly if not supported or constrained.
Short Gas-Filled Tube Shocks (Speedway Motors)
These 5-inch travel shocks are versatile for front and rear axle applications and include bushings for 1/2″ or 5/8″ bolts. Built with a steel body and black finish, they offer robust corrosion resistance and are designed to perform in demanding conditions. The standard 50/50 gas pressure design supports stable performance and predictable handling in a variety of vehicle setups.
Who it’s best for: DIY enthusiasts and drivers needing adaptable shocks for multiple mounting configurations. Why selected: Universal fit and adjustable bushings enable broad applicability. Caution: Primarily designed for automotive use; verify compatibility with specific lid or storage-applications before buying for non-automotive tasks.
ACDelco Silver 520-116 Gas Charged Rear Shock
ACDelco Silver 520-116 offers a gas-charged rear shock experience designed to improve seal life and reduce foaming for consistent performance. While primarily framed as a rear shock for vehicles, its gas-charged design makes it a candidate for general purposes where a reliable, durable piston action is needed. It is best for users seeking a reputable replacement with proven gas-charged performance in a vehicle context.
Who it’s best for: Vehicle owners needing a durable rear shock with gas-charged stability. Why selected: Known brand with emphasis on seal life and reduced aeration. Caution: Might be overkill for lid or cabinet applications; ensure mounting and load fit are appropriate for non-automotive uses.
ACDelco Gold 530-315 Premium Gas Charged Front Shock
ACDelco Gold 530-315 combines high-quality construction with a gas-charged design for front-use applications. It features a hardened chrome piston rod and an ultra-smooth surface to reduce friction and extend life, with gas charging that helps maintain response and control. Best for front-end suspension needs where consistent performance is essential.
Who it’s best for: Vehicle owners seeking premium front shocks with durable materials. Why selected: Strong build quality and gas-charged performance contribute to long service life. Caution: Front-specific and may not be suitable for lid lifting or non-automotive lift tasks without proper mounting and compatibility checks.
Buying Guide: Gas Filled Shock Absorbers For Lids, Hatches, And Small To Large Applications
What should I consider before buying?
- Load handling: Match the total lid weight with the combined lift force of the shocks. For RV beds and heavy lids, consider 80–110 lb per pair, as appropriate for the setup.
- Stroke and mounting: Check extended and collapsed lengths to ensure the shock fits inside the available space and aligns with mounting holes.
- Mounting brackets: Some products ship without brackets. Confirm whether you need brackets and verify compatibility with your lid material and hinge style.
- Soft-open versus hard-open: If you want controlled opening, prefer a model with soft-open characteristics or a dampened action; avoid designs lacking this feature for heavy lids.
- Temperature range and durability: If used outdoors or in varying climates, choose shocks rated for your operating temperatures and with corrosion-resistant bodies.
Which type is best for RV beds and camper hatches?
For heavier lids, look for longer length and higher lift per shock (around 100 lb per shock). For lighter lids or cabinets, shorter 10-inch to 12-inch shocks with 20–50 lb per shock can suffice. Always verify weight compatibility with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
What about compatibility and installation?
Always confirm the correct ball stud size, bolt pattern, and travel length. If mounting brackets aren’t included, source compatible brackets that match your hinge style and lid weight. Consult product specifications or vendor support to ensure correct fit.
How many shocks do I need?
Most lids or hatches use two shocks for balanced lift and control. For very heavy lids, consider upgrading to a higher-capacity pair or adding a third support if allowed by design.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Are gas filled shock absorbers suitable for all storage lids? A: They work best for lids that require controlled motion and consistent lift, but confirm weight ratings and mounting compatibility for each use case.
- Q: Do gas shocks require special installation tools? A: Basic hand tools are typically enough; follow the included mounting instructions and use appropriate brackets if needed.
- Q: Can gas shock absorbers be used outdoors? A: Yes, many are designed for outdoor use, but verify corrosion resistance and operating temperature ranges for the intended climate.
- Q: How do I determine the correct lift force? A: Calculate the total lid weight, then choose shocks with a lift force close to, or slightly above, half the total weight per shock for two-shock setups.
- Q: What is the difference between gas charged and non-gas shocks? A: Gas charged shocks reduce foaming and aeration, improving response and longevity in many applications.