How to Install Gas Struts

Gas struts are simple but essential components used to assist in lifting, lowering, and holding open lids, doors, hatches, and panels. Whether you're fitting a strut to a garden storage box, a car boot, a cabinet door, or a trap door, knowing how to install it correctly ensures smooth operation, longer-lasting performance, and better safety.

You’ll be pleased to hear that most gas struts are quick and easy to install once you know the basic steps, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through the process.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• What you’ll need before you start
• Types of applications and mounting positions
• Step-by-step installation instructions
• Application-specific notes
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Other tips for a gas strut smooth installation

After reading, you’ll have all the information you need for a smooth and safe strut installation.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before you get started, we recommend getting together the following items to make the installation process safe and straightforward:

• The correct gas strut for your application (check the force, stroke, and length)
• Mounting brackets or ball stud fittings (if these aren’t pre-installed)
• A flathead screwdriver or ball joint tool
• Gloves and eye protection
• A second pair of hands or a support prop (to help with heavy lids or panels)

Not sure which gas strut to order? See our guide on how to measure gas struts.

Types of Gas Strut Applications and Mounting Positions

Gas struts are used in a range of domestic, automotive, and industrial applications. You'll most often find them in places like car boots and bonnets, overhead cabinet doors, storage chest lids and ottomans, trap doors or loft hatches, and industrial access panels.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Installing a Gas Strut

Follow these simple steps to remove an old gas strut (if necessary) and install a new one safely and correctly.

1. Support the Lid or Door

   Before removing an old strut or installing a new one, you must support the lid or panel safely. Use a prop or wooden batten, or ask someone to hold it open. Never attempt to install a gas strut while the lid is under load.

2. Remove the Old Strut (if applicable)

   If you're replacing an existing gas spring, start by carefully detaching it from its mounting points. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently lift the metal retaining clip on the socket: usually you don’t need to remove the clip entirely, just lift it enough to release its grip.

   With the clip loosened, pull the socket off the ball joint, then repeat the process for the other end of the strut.

3. Check the Mounting Points

   Before installing the new gas strut, make sure your ball studs or mounting brackets are secure and free of dirt, grease, or corrosion.

   If you're starting from scratch, refer to your strut's technical drawing or manufacturer instructions to determine the correct mounting positions. We recommend marking these points with masking tape before drilling or fixing any brackets in place.

4. Fit the New Gas Strut

   Begin by aligning the socket end of the strut with the ball stud. Press it firmly into place until you hear or feel a click, which confirms the socket is securely latched onto the ball. Repeat the process for the second end, ensuring a snug and even fit. We generally recommended attaching the body end first, followed by the rod end.

   Avoid forcing the strut into position. If your strut needs to be slightly compressed for fitting, refer to our guide on how to compress a gas strut for installation.

Application-Specific Installation Notes

Different use cases may require slightly different considerations when installing gas struts. Here’s how to approach some of the most common scenarios.

• Cabinets and Cupboards

  Gas struts for cabinets are smaller and often feature soft-close or friction control. They're usually installed inside the cabinet with compact mounting brackets.

• Storage Lids and Benches

  When working with storage lids or benches, it’s important to consider their weight and range of motion. Make sure the brackets let the strut reach full extension without overstressing the joints.

  For outdoor storage boxes, choose corrosion-resistant fittings to increase longevity.

• Trap Doors

  Trapdoors often require a pair of gas struts for stability. Mount them at the correct angle and position to provide full lift and hold at the open position.

• Car Boots and Bonnets

  Car boots and bonnets use struts that must be replaced in matched pairs. When replacing boot struts, make sure the boot is fully supported during the removal process to prevent injury or damage. Most car boot struts use a ball-and-socket fitting with a spring clip, allowing for straightforward removal and replacement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being aware of a few simple—but common!—errors can make your gas strut installation smoother, safer, and less frustrating.

• Avoid installing the strut upside down: the cylinder should always be at the top when closed.
• Avoid forcing the strut to compress by hand: this can damage internal components. See our guide on how to compress a gas strut if needed.
• Avoid misaligned brackets: use accurate measurements and double-check mounting angles.
• Avoid mixing old and new struts: always install struts in matched pairs to reduce the risk of failure.
• Avoid not supporting the lid: this is a serious safety hazard and can damage the strut or hinge.

Tips for a Smooth Installation

And finally, these small but hard-won tips from our experts can make the fitting process easier and help extend the life of your struts.

• Apply a small amount of silicone spray to ball joints for easier fitting
• Take a photo of the original setup before removing old struts so you can refer to it when needed
• Don’t overtighten retaining clips: just tighten them enough to hold securely
• If the strut resists fitting, recheck mounting geometry before applying force

A Rule of Thumb

Installing a gas strut is a straightforward process that can be done in minutes with the right preparation. By familiarising yourself with the correct method and common pitfalls, you can ensure smooth installation and minimise frustration.

As a general rule, if you support the panel, align your mounting points, and ensure the strut is fitted in the correct orientation, you’ll get smooth, reliable performance for years to come.