Let’s Talk About JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. is a seemingly simple component with a wide range of applications, particularly for those of us who frequently modify or repair gear. Manufactured by JR Products, this gas spring provides controlled motion and support, often used in hatches, lids, and other applications where smooth opening and closing are desired. Its compact design and standardized end fittings promise ease of installation, making it a tempting upgrade or replacement for many projects.
What brought me to this particular gas spring? I was working on a custom storage box for the bed of my truck. I needed a reliable solution to hold the lid open at a specific angle, preventing it from slamming shut unexpectedly, especially when dealing with uneven terrain.
Upon receiving the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs., my initial impression was positive. The gas spring felt robust, with a seemingly durable finish and a smooth action when compressed by hand, suggesting a well-built product. This was a critical factor, as a poorly constructed gas spring could easily fail under stress or in extreme temperatures.
There are other gas springs on the market, sure. I considered options from Stabilus and McMaster-Carr, known for their precision engineering and wide selection. However, the JR Products spring offered a compelling combination of price and specified force, fitting my budget and load requirements perfectly. The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. also appeared to have more readily available replacement end fittings if needed.
Frankly, I was cautiously optimistic. The spring appeared well-made for the price. If it performed as advertised, it could save me considerable time and money compared to fabricating a custom support mechanism.
Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing ground for the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. was the custom truck bed storage box project. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the EF-PS30 end fittings. I attached one end to the box frame and the other to the lid, then observed the spring’s action.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. provided a smooth, controlled opening of the lid, holding it securely in the open position. I deliberately tested it in varying conditions. It worked well even when the truck was parked on a slight incline and during a light rain shower. The spring dampened the movement nicely.
Initially, I was concerned about the spring’s strength being too much. However, the 80 lbs force proved ideal for the weight of the lid. There were no surprises or immediate issues upon first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the truck bed storage box, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. continues to perform flawlessly. The lid opens smoothly every time, and the spring shows no signs of weakening or losing its damping properties.
Regarding durability, the gas spring has held up remarkably well despite exposure to direct sunlight, rain, and temperature fluctuations. I haven’t noticed any rust or corrosion on the cylinder or end fittings. Periodic cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it functioning optimally.
In comparison to previous experiences with cheaper gas springs from generic suppliers, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. significantly outperforms them. Those springs often lost their force within a few months. They would become either too weak or too stiff. This JR Products spring has maintained consistent performance, giving me confidence in its long-term reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs.
Specifications
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance.
- Extended Length: 20 inches. This dimension dictates the total length of the spring when fully extended, influencing the range of motion it can provide.
- Compressed Length: 11.41 inches. This is the length of the spring when fully compressed, determining the minimum space required for installation.
- Force: 80 lbs. This indicates the amount of force the spring exerts when extending, which dictates the weight it can support and the speed of its extension.
- End Fittings: EF-PS30. These are the standardized connectors that attach the spring to the application, ensuring compatibility and ease of installation.
These specifications matter greatly because they directly impact the spring’s suitability for a given application. The extended length determines the range of motion, while the compressed length influences space requirements. The 80 lbs force is critical for matching the spring’s strength to the weight of the object it’s supporting. Incorrect force can lead to the object slamming open or not opening at all.
Performance & Functionality
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. excels at its primary job: providing controlled support and motion. It offers a smooth, dampened extension that prevents slamming or uncontrolled movement.
Its strengths lie in its consistent force output, reliable damping, and ease of installation. There are minimal weaknesses, although the force rating might be too high for lighter applications. I wish there was a chart available for ideal weight recommendations.
Overall, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. meets and exceeds expectations, offering reliable performance in a variety of applications. It works exactly as it should.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. is impressive for its price point. The cylinder appears to be made of durable steel with a protective coating. The spring feels solid and well-constructed. Its weight is appropriate for its size and intended use.
It is inherently user-friendly because of its simple design. There’s no learning curve; simply attach the end fittings and let the spring do its job.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. is built to last. Its robust construction and corrosion-resistant finish suggest a long lifespan. Periodic cleaning is sufficient to maintain its performance.
There’s really not much to maintain. Just keep it clean and inspect the end fittings for wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the standard EF-PS30 end fittings.
While there aren’t extensive customization options for the spring itself, the EF-PS30 fittings are widely compatible with various mounting brackets and hardware. This allows for flexible installation configurations to suit different applications. You could change the mounting hardware easily to adapt to new constraints.
Pros and Cons of JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs.
Pros
- Reliable and Consistent Performance: The spring provides smooth, controlled motion and support consistently over time.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials and a corrosion-resistant finish for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Equipped with standard EF-PS30 end fittings for quick and simple installation.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of applications requiring controlled motion and support.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to higher-priced alternatives.
Cons
- Force May Be Too High for Lighter Applications: The 80 lbs force may be excessive for lighter lids or hatches, requiring more effort to close.
- Limited Customization Options: Lack of adjustability in force or damping.
Who Should Buy JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs.?
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. is perfect for:
- DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who need reliable gas springs for custom projects.
- RV owners seeking replacements for worn-out or damaged gas springs on storage compartments or access doors.
- Truck owners looking to upgrade or modify their truck bed storage solutions.
- Anyone needing a simple and effective solution for controlled motion and support in various applications.
Who should skip this product? If you need a gas spring with adjustable force or damping, or if your application requires a significantly lower force rating, this might not be the best choice.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Depending on the application, you might need mounting brackets or alternative end fittings for secure installation.
Conclusion on JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs.
In summary, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. is a reliable, durable, and affordable solution for controlled motion and support. Its consistent performance, easy installation, and robust construction make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications.
The price is absolutely justified given its performance and longevity. You get what you pay for with this product.
I would personally recommend the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 80 Lbs. to anyone looking for a dependable and cost-effective gas spring. It’s a worthwhile investment that delivers consistent results. Upgrade your gear or tackle that project with confidence – this gas spring won’t let you down.