Gas strut orientation

[Capt Paul]

I intend to add a gas strut to hold open the hatch on the back deck of my LRC. I’m trying to decide whether to mount the base near the hinge end on the coaming with the strut attaching to the hatch near the midline or to mount the base to the coaming near the opening and the end of the strut facing the hinge end of the hatch. So, when open, the strut will either kind of parallel the hatch or be perpendicular. Looking at a 12”x20” strut. 20#?

 

[Capt Paul]

Here is a picture of the hatch.

 

[Capt Paul]

Well that didn’t work. Ok I’ve added pictures before but can’t anymore. It says to drag it but it won’t drag. It’s the hatch that opens onto the boat deck.

 

[SEVEN]

You don’t drag it. Click add

 

[Capt Paul]

Yeah that didn’t work either. Maybe because I’m using an iPhone.

 

[Boatsb]

You have to pay apple for it to work.

 

[Capt Paul]

Ha that’s probably right. It is just a picture of the hatch I’m talking about. Not necessary for an answer.

 

[rob71]

I recently added gas struts to a dock box lid.
It was tricky ! Moving the base mount 1 or 2 inches in either direction would cause the lid to not stay up or would not close completely. Hopefully someone here with up to date geometry skills can chime in on this.
Capt. Rob

 

[Capt Paul]

Yeah I’m worried about that. I can’t duplicate the weights but think I’ll build a 2x4 frame and plywood hatch to hinge to it and try it out there first. I’ll first mount the base and then retract the piston and mount to the hatch in the closed position to ensure it won’t bottom out and not allow it to close. I’ll try a 20 and then if it won’t hold I’ll swap it for a 30 lb. Think I’ll mount the base on the opening side so when open it will be oriented perpendicular to the hatch which should make it easier to hold open. I’d like for it to actually open the hatch when unlatched. The purpose it to hold the hatch open to provide ventilation since I have closed in the back deck. Next I’ll have a screen cover made to keep bugs out.

 

[SEVEN]

Yeah that didn’t work either. Maybe because I’m using an iPhone.

Works with the phone to. If you need help call me and I’ll walk you through it. 650-619-2308 Rusty

 

[R D Young]

Here is how I did mine. Two 60# gas springs. Make sure the cylinder ends are 'up', so water, etc doesn't get in the mechanism. The geometry was a pain, especially to keep the table top from hitting the deck when the hatch is open. Only one minor concussion when the temporary screw slipped out and the whole thing dropped on my head during an adjustment session.

 

[Chasemmc]

Attach a spring scale to the place on the hatch where u think you'll attach the gas spring, read pounds to open, split in half for two springs. Adjust attach point on boat to fine tune