Gas Springs from RV

What Are RV Gas Springs and Why Do They Matter?

Gas springs — also called gas props, lift supports, or gas struts — are the unsung heroes of RV convenience. These pressurized cylinders use compressed nitrogen gas to provide a controlled, smooth assist when opening and holding doors, hatches, storage compartment lids, RV beds, and more. Without a functioning gas spring, a heavy exterior compartment door becomes a genuine safety hazard, prone to slamming down unexpectedly or requiring a hand to prop it open while you dig through gear.

Gas springs are used in a wide variety of RV applications, including cargo doors, entry doors, baggage compartment hatches, under-bed storage platforms, and truck cap lids. Over time, these components lose their charge or develop leaks, making replacement a common and important maintenance task for any RV owner.

How to Choose the Right RV Gas Spring

Selecting the correct replacement gas spring comes down to two key specs: extended length and force rating (measured in pounds). When replacing a worn strut, it's important to match both measurements as closely as possible to your original unit. Extended length is typically measured center-to-center between ball mounts, and force ratings for RV applications commonly range from 10 lbs for lightweight entry doors up to 150 lbs or more for heavy cargo hatches.

• Extended Length: Measure the strut from ball cap center to ball cap center when fully extended.
• Force Rating: Match the original lb rating or adjust slightly based on door weight and desired open speed.
• End Fittings: Most RV gas springs use plastic ball socket ends compatible with standard ball mount brackets.
• Rod Material: Look for nitride-coated steel rods, which offer superior corrosion resistance in outdoor environments.

Top Brands in RV Gas Springs

JR Products is the top-selling brand in this category, and for good reason. Their gas springs feature a strong annealed steel rod with a nitride coating for added corrosion resistance, and they are compatible with mounting brackets from multiple other brands. JR Products offers a wide range of lengths and force ratings to cover nearly any RV door or hatch application — from small windows to large exterior compartment doors.

RV Designer is another trusted name specifically engineered for the RV market. Their gas props are designed with plastic ends and locking clips to securely interface with standard ball mount hardware, making installation straightforward for DIY owners and dealers alike. RV Designer's focus on RV-specific hardware means their products are purpose-built for the unique demands of life on the road.

AP Products rounds out the lineup with additional coverage for RV gas spring applications, offering compatibility with the same ball mount bracket systems used by the other leading brands in this category.

Tips for a Successful Replacement

Before ordering, remove your existing gas spring and measure it carefully. Check whether your existing ball mount studs are still in good condition — these are often sold separately and may need replacement at the same time. If you're upgrading rather than replacing, consider whether a higher force rating would make a heavy door easier to lift. In outdoor and marine environments, always prioritize struts with corrosion-resistant rod finishes to maximize service life.