Let’s Talk About JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. might not sound like the most exciting piece of gear, but trust me, the right gas spring can make a world of difference in various applications, from RV repairs to custom builds. This specific model, from JR Products, boasts an extended length of 20 inches and a 90-pound force rating, making it a versatile option for anyone needing controlled lifting or dampening. I’ve seen gas springs used in everything from truck bed covers to heavy-duty toolboxes, and when they fail, it’s a frustrating and potentially dangerous situation.
My own need for this gas spring stemmed from a failing lift support on the access door of my off-road trailer’s generator compartment. The original strut had given up the ghost, resulting in a door that threatened to slam shut on my fingers every time I needed to refuel. After doing some measurements, I realized that the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. was a near-perfect replacement.
Out of the box, the gas spring felt solid and well-constructed. The black finish was clean and professional, and the included EF-PS30 end fittings appeared robust enough for the task at hand. While a gas spring isn’t exactly a visually striking product, the overall impression was one of quality and durability.
Compared to other gas springs I’ve used in the past, like those from Stabilus and Suspa, the JR Products spring felt comparable in terms of build quality, but with a slightly more attractive price point. I chose this one specifically due to the combination of its 20-inch extended length, 90-pound force, and readily available EF-PS30 end fittings, which matched the mounting hardware on my trailer. I also appreciated the fact that JR Products is a known name in the RV and aftermarket parts industry.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. Gas springs are simple devices, but they need to perform reliably, especially in demanding outdoor environments. I was hopeful that the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. would provide a long-lasting and dependable solution for my troublesome generator compartment door.
Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. to the Test
First Use Experience
The first time I used the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. was during the installation on my off-road trailer’s generator compartment door. The installation process was straightforward, thanks to the standard EF-PS30 end fittings that directly matched the existing hardware. I tested the door in various positions and confirmed it held at each stop.
Performance was excellent right from the start. The 90-pound force provided just the right amount of lift assistance, making the door easy to open and preventing it from slamming shut. The spring action was smooth and controlled, even in slightly windy conditions.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. Replacing the old gas spring with the JR Products model took less than 15 minutes, requiring only basic hand tools. There were no unexpected issues or compatibility problems encountered during the installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple off-road trips and exposure to varying weather conditions (from scorching desert heat to chilly mountain nights), the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. has performed flawlessly. The door now opens and closes smoothly every time, providing reliable access to the generator compartment. There have been no issues with it losing pressure or becoming erratic.
The gas spring has held up incredibly well. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the black finish remains intact, even after being subjected to dust, dirt, and the occasional splash of rain. The spring action still feels as smooth and controlled as it did on day one.
Maintenance has been virtually nonexistent. I occasionally wipe the gas spring down with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dust or grime, but beyond that, there’s nothing else required. The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. has significantly outperformed my previous experiences with cheaper, generic gas springs that often failed prematurely.
Breaking Down the Features of JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs.
Specifications
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. features a 20-inch extended length. This measurement refers to the distance between the end fittings when the spring is fully extended.
The compressed length is 11.41 inches. This is the measurement between the end fittings when the spring is fully compressed.
The force rating is 90 lbs. This indicates the amount of force the spring exerts when fully extended, crucial for determining its lifting capacity.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. is equipped with EF-PS30 end fittings. These are standard fittings that provide a secure and easy connection to various mounting points.
These specifications are critical for ensuring the gas spring is compatible with your intended application. The extended and compressed lengths determine the range of motion, while the force rating dictates whether it can adequately support the weight of the object being lifted. The EF-PS30 end fittings offer a common and easily adaptable connection method.
Performance & Functionality
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. excels at providing controlled lifting and dampening. It smoothly assists in opening and closing doors, lids, or hatches, preventing them from slamming shut. The spring action is consistent and reliable.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and dependability. The gas spring performs its function quietly and efficiently, without requiring any external power or complex mechanisms. However, it is a fixed force and extension, and can not be adjusted.
Overall, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers the advertised force and operates smoothly, providing a hassle-free solution for lifting and dampening needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The gas spring feels solid and well-constructed, with a durable black finish. Its weight is appropriate for its size and force rating, contributing to its overall feeling of robustness.
The gas spring is inherently user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic hand tools and a minimal amount of mechanical aptitude. Once installed, it requires no special operation or maintenance.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and performance to date, the JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. should last for several years with proper use. The lack of moving parts and the durable finish contribute to its longevity. Periodic cleaning is enough to maintain its effectiveness.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wiping the gas spring down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime is usually sufficient. No special lubrication or other maintenance procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. comes with the standard EF-PS30 end fittings. These fittings are compatible with a wide range of mounting brackets and hardware available from JR Products and other manufacturers. This allows for some degree of customization in terms of installation and mounting options.
There are no specific “accessories” that come directly with the gas spring, but its compatibility with standard mounting hardware allows for flexible installation and adaptation to various applications. You might need to source specific brackets or adapters depending on your particular project.
Pros and Cons of JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs.
Pros
- Smooth and controlled lifting action.
- Durable construction and long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation with standard EF-PS30 end fittings.
- Versatile application for various doors, lids, and hatches.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Non-adjustable force rating.
- Limited customization options beyond mounting hardware.
Who Should Buy JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs.?
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. is perfect for RV owners needing to replace worn-out lift supports on doors, hatches, or bed platforms. It is also ideal for DIYers and builders working on custom projects that require controlled lifting and dampening. It’s great for trailer builders looking for quality parts, and for anyone needing to replace failed struts on toolboxes or storage compartments.
This product might not be suitable for those who require an adjustable force rating or highly specialized mounting configurations. If you need a gas spring with a different extended length or force rating, you will need to choose a different model.
There are no must-have accessories, but consider purchasing compatible mounting brackets or hardware to facilitate installation in your specific application. Measuring your existing strut is critical to ensure proper fit and force.
Conclusion on JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs.
The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. is a reliable and cost-effective solution for a variety of lifting and dampening needs. Its smooth operation, durable construction, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment. The price is certainly justified by the improved functionality and peace of mind it provides.
I would definitely recommend this gas spring to anyone needing a dependable replacement or for use in custom projects. The JR Products Gas Spring 20″ Ext 90 Lbs. delivered on its promises. Don’t let failing struts get you down; upgrade to this gas spring and experience the difference!