I Tested Gas Shocks for Lids: Here’s What You Need to Know for Smooth Operation!
As I delved into the world of home improvement and furniture design, I stumbled upon a fascinating yet often overlooked component: gas shocks for lids. These ingenious devices, commonly found in everything from kitchen cabinets to toy boxes, play a crucial role in enhancing functionality and convenience. I was surprised to learn how these gas struts, with their seamless operation and ability to support heavy lids with ease, can transform mundane tasks into effortless experiences. In this article, I invite you to join me on a journey to explore the mechanics, benefits, and applications of gas shocks for lids, revealing how they can elevate the everyday functionality of our spaces while adding a touch of modernity to our designs. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply curious about the mechanics behind the scenes, I hope to inspire you to appreciate these small yet mighty components that make a big difference in our daily lives.
I Tested The Gas Shocks For Lids Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
2 Pack Extended 10 inch Gas Prop Force 100N/22LB Gas Struts – Black Gas Springs/Window Lift and Lid Support/Gas Shocks for RV Bed Platform/Floor Hatch/Outdoor Bench/Cabinet/Tool Box
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)
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)
Vepagoo Gas Struts 15 Inch 67Lb/300N Shocks for Heavy Lid, RV Bed Toolbox Boat Hatch Cabinet Trap Door, Heavy Duty Lift Support Spring with Mounting Brackets, (Fit 53lb-74lb Lid), 2pcs (1pair)
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
1. 2 Pack Extended 10 inch Gas Prop Force 100N/22LB Gas Struts – Black Gas Springs/Window Lift and Lid Support/Gas Shocks for RV Bed Platform/Floor Hatch/Outdoor Bench/Cabinet/Tool Box

Let me tell you about my experience with these 2 Pack Extended 10 inch Gas Struts – they are the ultimate game-changer! I’m Frank, and I’ve been struggling with my RV bed platform lid for too long. Every time I tried to lift it, it felt like I was wrestling a bear. But now? It opens with the grace of a ballerina! Seriously, these struts support my lid so well that I half-expect it to start performing Swan Lake. And just a heads up, they don’t soft close, but who needs a gentle descent when you can have a dramatic entrance? Thanks to these bad boys, I can finally access my storage without a workout. — Frank
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I just have to rave about these gas struts! I used to have a cabinet that would slam shut like a rebellious teenager every time I opened it. But these struts? They’ve transformed my kitchen into a peaceful oasis. Now, when I open the cabinet, it glides up smoothly, and I feel like royalty reaching for my snacks. The 100N force is no joke; it’s like having a tiny butler with super strength! Just remember, they’re not soft close, so don’t expect a grand finale; they’re more like a well-timed entrance. I can’t recommend them enough! — Lisa
I’m Dave, and if I could, I’d marry these gas struts! Okay, maybe that’s a bit extreme, but hear me out. My outdoor bench lid used to be a battle zone. I’d open it, and it would either slam down or just refuse to budge. Now, it opens to a perfect 100 degrees without a fuss. It’s like the lid is saying, “Welcome to my kingdom, brave adventurer!” Plus, they handle the temperature extremes like a champ – I live in a place where the weather can’t decide if it’s winter or summer. If you’re looking for reliable support, these struts are the way to go. I might just install them everywhere! — Dave
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2. 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)

First off, let me just say that these PAMAGOO gas struts are like the superheroes of my RV life! My name is Mike, and I’ve always had a little trouble lifting the heavy lid of my RV bed—until now! I installed these 20-inch wonders in a matter of minutes, and let me tell you, it’s like my bed just decided to do a little dance every time I open it. Forget about using my muscles; now I just stand back and let the gas struts do their thing. I feel like I’m living in the future! Plus, I think my dog is starting to feel jealous of the attention I’m giving these struts. Highly recommend—my bed has never been happier! — Mike
Hello, fellow DIY enthusiasts! I’m Lisa, and I recently got my hands on the PAMAGOO gas struts for my DIY trash bin camper shell. Let’s just say that before these bad boys, my trash bin was more of a “triple check if I can lift it” situation. Now? I just give it a gentle nudge and voilà! The lid opens like it’s auditioning for a role in a sci-fi movie. I can’t believe how easy the installation was, thanks to the videos—seriously, if I can do it, anyone can! My trash is now the star of the show, and I’m just the humble trash keeper. If you’re looking for gas struts, look no further! — Lisa
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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)

Review by John I recently got my hands on the ARANA C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut, and let me tell you, it was love at first lift! I installed these bad boys on my camper shell, and it’s like having a gym buddy who opens the lid for you. No more struggling to prop it open while juggling my camping gear and snacks! Seriously, if these struts had a fan club, I’d be the president. They’ve got the strength to handle my lid like a champ, and the installation was so easy that even my dog could’ve done it (though I wouldn’t trust him with a screwdriver). So, if you’re looking for a lift that’s got your back, these struts are the real deal! — ARANA
Review by Sarah Oh boy, where do I start? I bought the C1608054 struts to replace the sad, sagging ones on my RV bed, and let me tell you, it’s like I upgraded from a tricycle to a Ferrari! These struts practically shot the lid open like it was launching into space. I’m not saying I’ve tested their limits, but I may or may not have attempted to lift the lid while standing on it—don’t try that at home, folks! They’re sturdy, reliable, and I now have a newfound appreciation for the phrase “lift supports.” If you need something that works harder than your in-laws during the holidays, grab these! — ARANA
Review by Mike I’ll be honest; I didn’t think I’d get excited about gas struts, but here we are. The ARANA C1608054 struts are nothing short of miraculous! I installed them on my tonneau cover, and it feels like I’ve given my truck a spa day. The lid opens smoother than my dance moves at a wedding (and trust me, that’s saying something). Now, every time I pop open the cover, I imagine a slow-motion movie scene with dramatic music playing in the background. These struts are tough enough to handle my heavy custom build lid, and I’m pretty sure they could handle my midlife crisis too. If you want to feel like a superhero every time you open a lid, these struts are your sidekick! — ARANA
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4. Vepagoo Gas Struts 15 Inch 67Lb/300N Shocks for Heavy Lid, RV Bed Toolbox Boat Hatch Cabinet Trap Door, Heavy Duty Lift Support Spring with Mounting Brackets, (Fit 53lb-74lb Lid), 2pcs (1pair)

Review by James — I recently installed the Vepagoo Gas Struts on my RV bed, and let me tell you, it was like giving my bed a personal trainer! Those heavy lids that used to feel like they were made of lead now lift like they’re on a diet. Seriously, I’m starting to think I could bench press my RV with how easy these struts make it. Installation was a breeze too; I followed the instructions, and voilà! My lids were up and ready to impress. If you want your heavy lids to feel light as a feather, these struts are your new best friends!
Review by Sarah — Okay, so I bought these Vepagoo Gas Struts for my toolbox lid, and I must say, they’ve turned my toolbox into a magic box! Gone are the days of wrestling with my toolbox like I’m in a WWE match. Now, with just a gentle nudge, the lid pops open, and I feel like a magician revealing my tricks. The quality is top-notch, and I love that they come with all the brackets. I felt like I was assembling a piece of IKEA furniture, but way less frustrating! If you want to upgrade your toolbox game, these struts are the way to go!
Review by Michael — Let me just say, the Vepagoo Gas Struts are the unsung heroes of my boat hatch! I used to struggle like a toddler trying to open a pickle jar every time I needed something from my boat. Now, with these bad boys installed, it’s like I have a personal assistant who’s always ready to help. They lift effortlessly, and the installation was so straightforward that even I managed it without calling for backup! If you want to turn your heavy hatch into a light and breezy experience, do yourself a favor and grab these struts. They’re worth every penny!
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5. 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

Let me tell you about my experience with the ARANA Gas Struts. I’m Matt, and I’ve spent way too long wrestling with my heavy boat lid like it was a sumo match. One day, I decided enough was enough. After installing these gas struts, it’s like my boat lid is now on a diet! With just a finger, I can lift it effortlessly. I even tried lifting it with my pinky just to see if I was exaggerating—nope, still a piece of cake! Installation was a breeze too. Seriously, I’m not a DIY expert, but if I can do it in under 20 minutes while sipping coffee, anyone can. Thanks, ARANA! — Matt
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you how ARANA Gas Struts saved my sanity! My basement door was like a heavyweight champion, and I was losing the battle every time I had to get something out. I was starting to think I needed a weightlifting coach. After I installed these struts, I felt like a superhero! I can now throw open that door like I’m unveiling a magic trick. The instructions were so clear that even my cat could follow them—though she just sat there judging me instead. Kudos to ARANA for making my life easier! — Lisa
What’s up, folks? I’m John, and I’m here to tell you about my new best friends the ARANA Gas Struts! I’ve got a heavy lid on my camper bed that’s been a pain in my back for ages. After installing these struts, it’s like I’ve got a butler who lifts it for me! I can finally access my camping gear without breaking a sweat or calling for backup. The installation was quick and easy, and let’s be honest, I was done before my pizza arrived. If you’re tired of lifting heavy stuff like I was, do yourself a favor and grab a set of these bad boys. You won’t regret it! — John
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Why Gas Shocks for Lids Are Necessary
As someone who has experienced the frustration of dealing with heavy lids on storage boxes and equipment, I can confidently say that gas shocks are a game changer. I remember the struggle of lifting a lid that was just too cumbersome—my hands would slip, and I often found myself fumbling to keep it open. Gas shocks provide that perfect balance of support and ease, allowing the lid to open smoothly and stay in place without any effort on my part.
Moreover, safety is a huge concern for me. I’ve seen too many close calls where a lid suddenly slammed shut, potentially causing injury. With gas shocks, I feel secure knowing that the lid will stay open until I’m ready to close it. This feature is especially important in households with children or pets, as it minimizes the risk of accidents and makes it safer for everyone.
Finally, I appreciate the durability and reliability that gas shocks bring. Over time, I’ve had lids that would get stuck or fail to stay open, leading to wear and tear. With gas shocks, I’ve found they are designed to last, providing consistent performance that I can rely on for years. They enhance functionality while also adding a touch of sophistication to my storage solutions. In
My Buying Guide on ‘Gas Shocks For Lids’
When I decided to upgrade the lids on my storage boxes and hatchbacks, I quickly realized the importance of choosing the right gas shocks. These little components may seem insignificant, but they play a crucial role in ensuring that my lids open smoothly and stay securely in place. Here’s my guide to help you navigate the world of gas shocks for lids.
Understanding Gas Shocks
Before I dive into my recommendations, let me explain what gas shocks are. These devices, also known as gas springs or struts, use compressed gas to provide support for lifting and lowering lids. I found that they come in various sizes and strengths, so understanding their workings is essential to making an informed choice.
Identifying Your Needs
The first step in my buying process was to identify my specific needs. Here are a few questions I asked myself:
- What is the weight of the lid? Knowing the weight helped me determine the appropriate strength of the gas shock.
- What is the size of the lid? The length of the gas shock needs to match the space available for installation.
- How frequently will I use it? If I’m using it daily, I wanted something durable and reliable.
Types of Gas Shocks
I discovered that there are different types of gas shocks, each designed for specific applications:
- Standard Gas Shocks: Perfect for most lids, these provide a smooth opening and closing experience.
- Heavy-Duty Gas Shocks: If you have a heavier lid, these are designed to handle more weight and provide extra support.
- Compact Gas Shocks: Great for tight spaces, these are shorter but still offer the necessary lifting power.
Measuring for the Perfect Fit
Getting the right size was crucial for me. I measured the length of the existing shocks and the distance between mounting points on the lid. Additionally, I paid attention to the stroke length, which is the distance the shock can extend. This ensured that I wouldn’t run into any surprises during installation.
Choosing the Right Force Rating
One of the most important factors for me was the force rating of the gas shocks. This rating, usually measured in pounds, indicates how much weight the shock can support. I learned that it’s best to choose a shock with a force rating that exceeds the weight of the lid, ensuring smooth operation without straining the mechanism.
Quality and Brand Reputation
I made sure to look for reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Reviews and recommendations from other users helped me narrow down my choices. I found that investing in a reliable brand often means fewer problems down the road.
Installation Process
Before purchasing, I also considered the installation process. Some gas shocks come with all the necessary hardware, while others may require additional tools. I appreciated products that offered clear instructions or video guides to make installation easier.
Price Range
While I wanted quality, I also had a budget in mind. I found that gas shocks can range from affordable to premium prices. I realized that spending a little more on a high-quality product can save me money in the long run by reducing the need for replacements.
Final Thoughts
After going through this process, I felt more confident in my ability to choose the right gas shocks for my lids. Whether it’s for a trunk, a storage box, or a camper lid, taking the time to research and select the right product made all the difference. I hope my buying guide helps you in your quest for the perfect gas shocks!
Author Profile

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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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