Compact gas springs are commonly used to help hold small RV hatches, doors and folding panels open. JR Products offers three GSNI sizes here: 7½, 10 and 12 inches fully extended. Their strokes and force ratings vary, so the spring must be selected to match the original mounting geometry, not just the door size.

Length, stroke and force comparison

These seven models cover three different compact lengths. All have 6 mm rods, 15 mm tubes and plastic ball-socket ends.

Exact MPN Extended Compressed Stroke Force Rod / tube
GSNI-4900-15 7.5 in 5.25 in 2.25 in 15 lb 6/15 mm
GSNI-4900-40 7.5 in 5.25 in 2.25 in 40 lb 6/15 mm
GSNI-4900-60 7.5 in 5.25 in 2.25 in 60 lb 6/15 mm
GSNI-5000-20 10 in 6.41 in 3.59 in 20 lb 6/15 mm
GSNI-5000-60 10 in 6.41 in 3.59 in 60 lb 6/15 mm
GSNI-5100-30 12 in 7.91 in 4.09 in 30 lb 6/15 mm
GSNI-5100-40 12 in 7.91 in 4.09 in 40 lb 6/15 mm

Measurement key: extended and compressed lengths are measured between the centres of the mounting ends; stroke is the piston travel between those positions. The rod and tube measurements are diameters, in millimetres. Read the manufacturer gas spring fit-and-selection diagram (PDF) for the measurement illustration.

Same length does not mean same force. The GSNI-4900 family has 15, 40 and 60 lb options. GSNI-5000 has 20 and 60 lb versions; GSNI-5100 has 30 and 40 lb versions. Do not increase the force because a hatch is difficult to open until the original specifications and hinges have been checked.

How to select the right spring

  1. Start with extended length: compare the 7½-, 10- and 12-inch families, measuring between the centres of the mounting ends.
  2. Confirm compressed size and stroke: a compact 7½-inch spring compresses to 5.25 inches; a 12-inch spring compresses to 7.91 inches.
  3. Keep the original force: spring push force is not the same as hatch weight. Use the old stamped rating or the equipment manufacturer's part recommendation.
  4. Confirm installation: the plastic sockets and retaining clips must attach securely without the spring bottoming out when the door closes.

Secure the compartment door or platform before removing a gas spring, and do not puncture, heat or dismantle a pressurized support. The manufacturer force rating is a push force, not the door's rated weight.

Find the matching JR Products lift supports

The matching products are ordered online through NewRVParts and ship from supplier warehouses. In-person viewing and pickup are unavailable.

Need a longer support? Continue to GSNI 13.98–18-inch sizes, then the 17-inch GSNI-5200 and 20-inch GSNI-5300 references. Our cabinet hinges and supports guide covers related hardware.

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