Let’s Talk About JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. is a seemingly simple component that can solve a multitude of problems in various applications, from RVs to campers, and even custom builds. Manufactured by JR Products, this gas spring provides a controlled lifting or lowering action, making heavy lids, doors, or hatches much easier and safer to operate. Its key feature is its 20-inch extended length with a 20 lbs force, offering a balanced assistance for medium-weight applications.
I first encountered the need for a gas spring when I was modifying my overland trailer. The heavy gullwing doors I fabricated were proving difficult to manage, especially in windy conditions. I needed something reliable, compact, and strong enough to keep the doors open without slamming shut.
Upon unboxing the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs., I was immediately impressed with its robust construction. The cylinder felt solid, and the EF-PS30 end fittings appeared well-made and ready for installation. It didn’t have the flashy aesthetics of some high-end automotive parts, but it exuded a sense of functional reliability.
I considered a few similar products from Stabilus and Suspa, both reputable brands. Ultimately, I chose the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. because of its precise force rating and the readily available EF-PS30 end fittings. The price point was also a significant factor, as it offered a great balance of quality and affordability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if this gas spring could truly tame the unwieldy doors of my trailer, but I was also aware that not all components perform as advertised in the demanding environment of off-road travel.
Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. on the gullwing doors of my overland trailer during a weekend camping trip in the Mojave Desert. This environment presented a range of challenges, from high winds to extreme temperatures. The gas spring was installed on one door initially to compare its performance against the unassisted door.
The performance in windy conditions was immediately noticeable. The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. provided enough resistance to prevent the door from slamming shut in gusts of wind, making it much safer and easier to manage. It also operated smoothly in the high desert temperatures, without any noticeable loss of performance.
Installation was relatively straightforward, though I did need to fabricate custom mounting brackets to suit my specific application. The spring compressed and extended with a consistent force. It took a little getting used to, as the door now required less effort to open and close, but the improvement was significant.
After the first use, the only minor issue I noticed was a slight squeak from one of the end fittings. This was easily resolved with a small amount of silicone lubricant.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple off-road trips and exposure to a variety of weather conditions, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the gas spring continues to operate smoothly and reliably. The powder coating has resisted scratches and corrosion, even after being exposed to mud and salt spray.
Maintenance has been minimal, consisting mainly of occasional cleaning and lubrication of the end fittings. The gas spring itself requires no special care.
Compared to my previous experience with cheaper, generic gas springs, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. is a clear winner. It provides a more consistent force, feels more durable, and has proven to be much more reliable in the long run. It has exceeded my expectations for a component in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs.
Specifications
Extended Length: 20 inches. This is the total length of the spring when fully extended, crucial for determining the range of motion it will provide.
Compressed Length: 11.41 inches. This dictates how much space the spring occupies when fully compressed, important for fitting within confined spaces.
Force: 20 lbs. This is the amount of force the spring exerts when extending, determining the weight it can effectively support.
End Fittings: EF-PS30. These are the connectors at each end of the spring, allowing for easy attachment to various surfaces. They are designed for simple installation.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the applications for which the gas spring is suitable. The 20 lbs force is ideal for supporting medium-weight lids and doors, while the extended and compressed lengths determine the range of motion and mounting options. The EF-PS30 end fittings simplify installation.
Performance & Functionality
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. performs its job admirably, providing a smooth and controlled lifting or lowering action for doors, hatches, and lids. The force is consistent throughout the stroke, preventing sudden movements and ensuring safe operation.
The primary strength is its reliability and consistent performance. The only weakness I’ve encountered is the potential for squeaking end fittings, which is easily remedied with lubrication.
The gas spring meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of providing reliable assistance for lifting and lowering heavy objects.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a robust cylinder and well-made end fittings. The weight is appropriate for its size and force rating, neither too heavy nor too flimsy.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise to install. The EF-PS30 end fittings are designed for quick and simple attachment. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and performance over several months of use, I expect the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. to last for several years with proper care. The powder-coated finish helps to protect against corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the end fittings. There are no user-serviceable parts within the gas spring itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. does not come with any accessories. However, various mounting brackets and hardware are available separately to accommodate different installation scenarios.
The EF-PS30 end fittings are a common standard, making the gas spring compatible with a wide range of mounting hardware and accessories from other brands. This offers significant flexibility in terms of customization.
Pros and Cons of JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs.Pros
- Reliable and consistent performance. Provides smooth and controlled lifting/lowering action.
- Durable construction. Withstands demanding environments and resists wear and tear.
- Easy to install. The EF-PS30 end fittings simplify the installation process.
- Affordable price. Offers great value for money compared to other gas springs on the market.
- Versatile application. Can be used in a wide range of applications, from RVs to custom builds.
Cons
- Potential for squeaking end fittings. May require occasional lubrication.
- No included mounting hardware. Brackets and hardware must be purchased separately.
Who Should Buy JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs.?
Pros
- Reliable and consistent performance. Provides smooth and controlled lifting/lowering action.
- Durable construction. Withstands demanding environments and resists wear and tear.
- Easy to install. The EF-PS30 end fittings simplify the installation process.
- Affordable price. Offers great value for money compared to other gas springs on the market.
- Versatile application. Can be used in a wide range of applications, from RVs to custom builds.
Cons
- Potential for squeaking end fittings. May require occasional lubrication.
- No included mounting hardware. Brackets and hardware must be purchased separately.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. is perfect for RV owners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone needing reliable assistance for lifting or lowering medium-weight doors, hatches, or lids. It is also suitable for custom builds, such as overland trailers, campers, and storage solutions.
Those needing to support extremely heavy objects or requiring a longer stroke length should skip this product and look for a gas spring with a higher force rating and extended length. Individuals needing immediate installation without sourcing additional hardware might want to consider kits that include mounting brackets.
A must-have accessory is a set of appropriate mounting brackets and hardware suitable for your specific application. Silicone lubricant for the end fittings is also recommended.
Conclusion on JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. is a reliable and affordable solution for providing assisted lifting and lowering. Its consistent performance, durable construction, and easy installation make it a valuable component for various applications.
The price is definitely justified given its performance and longevity. It provides a significant upgrade over cheaper alternatives, offering a better value in the long run.
I would personally recommend the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 20 Lbs. to anyone looking for a dependable gas spring for medium-weight applications. Don’t struggle with heavy lids and doors – invest in this gas spring and experience the difference! Give your project the controlled motion it deserves.