How to install gas shocks on a boat hatch

Do you own a multi-storey boat or a boat with storage space? Then you undoubtedly want to be able to reach the different layers in your boat easily without too much effort. A gas shock, also known as a gas strut or gas spring, offers the perfect solution for this issue. On this page, we from Gasspringsshop.com will explain to you clearly why a gas shock is the ideal object for this matter. Besides that we will also explain how to install gas shocks on a boat hatch. Do you want to know more? Then read on, we can not wait to tell you more!

Why install gas shocks on a boat hatch?

We have already given away the biggest advantage of a gas shock, namely the convenience that comes with it. You no longer have to bend down to manually keep the heavy boat hatch open. The gas shock is able to keep the boat hatch open without any effort. A gas shock also prevents accidents and thus injuries. How? We will explain to you! Because the gas shock has a cylinder with compressed nitrogen, the application is able to stay open ‘by itself’ because of the resilient operation. A gas shock also has a valve, which ensures that the movement stays damped. Thanks to these both components, it is a guarantee that the application, such as a boat hatch, cannot suddenly fall down on a person.

With regard to the above argument it is important to know that not every gas shock can be installed just like that on every application and thus boat hatch. The correct gas shock depends on the dimensions and weight of the boat hatch. Now you may be thinking, how can I determine which gas shock is suitable for my boat hatch? Below we will give you a golden tip regarding determining the right gas shock. Useful! 

gas strut for boat hatch

Here’s a pro tip for now: don’t forget to also calculate and order the correct mounting parts! You will need these later on when installing the gas shocks.

Let’s make sure the measurements are right!

Let’s get right into the matter of how to install gas shocks on a boat hatch! The golden tip that we can offer you is the possibility of using our calculator tool. It’s super easy to use! All you need to know are the dimensions of your boat hatch and some other details such as weight, degrees of open angle and the number of gas shocks you want to install. After collecting all the data, fill in all fields in our calculator tool, accept the terms of use and click on ‘Calculate’, the complicated calculations will then all happen automatically.

You will now see a 3D design of your application with the gas shock(s). If you are not yet satisfied with the outcome, you can simply adjust everything again. Our calculator tool is completely free to use! Are you satisfied with the result? Then you can view the gas shocks that the calculator recommends. Also, make sure you either remember or note the calculated inch points shown by the calculator, you will need these later on! You can also save your calculated project so you can view it later on. Did you know that we sell all gas shocks recommended by the calculator tool directly from stock? In addition, we guarantee a lightning-fast delivery!

how to install

Are you having trouble using our calculator tool? We have a very handy video for you right here in which we demonstrate our calculator tool in detail. This way you can be sure that you will get started properly and that you will not have any unexpected surprises afterwards!

How to install gas shocks on a boat hatch

Have you ordered the right gas shocks? Time to start installing! Take the inch points that you noted earlier while calculating the dimensions of your gas shocks. Now mark these inch points on your boat hatch. It is extremely important that the dimensions of the inch points are identical to the calculation, otherwise the gas shock(s) may eventually not fit in the end / not work properly.

Now you can screw the mounting parts onto the applied markings. Gasspringsshop recommends using stainless-steel self-tapping screws. Then make sure that you snap the gas shock(s) in an extended state onto the mounting parts. It’s extremely important that you mount the gas strut with the narrow rod end lower than the gas-filled piston. The last tip we give is having a partner to help you with the installation. Have the other person hold the boat hatch open while you install the gas shock(s). This really makes installation a lot easier!

Perhaps are your gas shocks in need of replacement?

We can also well imagine that the current gas shocks on your boat hatch need to be replaced. Gasspringsshop also has the solution for this problem! You can use our replacement search function for free to find the perfect replacement gas shocks for your boat hatch. For a number of renowned brands, such as AL-KO, Bansbach, Airax Rayflex, Stabilus Lift-O-Mat, Lesjöfors and Suspa Liftline, we offer replacement gas pressure dampers. You can use our replacement search function by simply entering the article number of your gas strut in the search function. Do you not know how to find the part number of your Stabilus-O-Mat gas spring? We have a video in which we tell you how to find your part number! Handy!

replace gas springs

But what if you don’t have the article number of your current gas shock(s)? No problem, we understand that you can’t own this data forever. You can also easily discover a similar gas shock in our configurator tool. This tool is perfect when you already know what you are looking for, but are not quite there yet! Still unsure about the right gas shock? Please feel free to contact us without obligation. 

Do you have enough clarity?

Now that you’ve reached the end of this page, do you know how to install gas shocks on a boat hatch? Yes? Then don’t wait any longer and start putting together your perfect gas shocks right away! Use our calculator tool and order directly online! Or use our configurator tool or replacement search function if you are looking for (similar) gas shocks. Are you still in need of assistance? Then please don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help you find the right gas shock for every application. If you have any other questions, you can either take a look at our FAQ where a lot of questions are already answered or you can send an email to [email protected]. Our specialized craftsmen are more than happy to offer their expertise.