Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the life expectancy of your recharged or custom gas springs?

A: Gas springs will offer years of service under normal operating conditions. The approximate life of a gas spring is dependant on how much output force the lift support can lose before the operation of the fixture on which the gas spring is mounted becomes unacceptable. Output force of all gas springs slowly decreases over time. The rate at which force loss occurs varies between applications. Many factors affect the rate of force loss, such as: cylinder size of the support, orientation, amount of cycles, ambient temperature, vibration, and the geometry of the application. In light of all the variables, it is very difficult to estimate life accurately without actual testing in the application.

Q: How should the gas spring be mounted, rod up or rod down?

A: Shaft down is the preferred option for mounting a gas spring. In order to achieve the damping or cushion at the end of the gas springs travel, the piston assembly inside of the gas spring must pass through oil, slowing the extension speed near the end of the stroke. Also with the shaft positioned down this ensures that the oil is in the proper location for damping to occur. Shaft down orientation also ensures that the shaft and sealing components are consistently lubricated which reduces seal wear and maximizes the life of the gas spring.

Q: Why has my lift support failed?

A: In most cases a gas lift has lost some of it’s nitrogen gas pressure rendering it too weak to support it’s load. Extreme operating conditions: extreme temperatures, dust and contaminants may shorten the expected life.

Q: I have added accessories to my trunk/hatch, the gas springs won’t hold it in open anymore.

A: We can adjust the pressure of your gas springs to make them stronger. Or have us supply you a custom set of stainless steel gas springs for a unique look.

Q: There are two lift supports but I think only one is weak. Should I recharge both?

A: Definitely otherwise twisting may occur causing structural damage, squeaks or even glass breakage!

Q: My application does not have lift supports, what can I do?

A: LS Technologies can design and supply you with all the right parts needed to install gas lift support system in your application.

General Information about Gas Springs / Lift Supports

  • Gas springs provide output force & motion damping to provide safe lifting & holding of heavy objects: a vehicle’s hood, doors, trunk or hatchback.
  • Gas springs are found in a variety of applications: truck bed covers, tailgates, tool boxes, seat positioning systems, etc.
  • Gas springs normally lose their pressure gradually over a period of 2-7 years depending on operating conditions.
  • If you alter the load on the gas spring or if the gas springs have lost pressure the object being supported will be difficult to lift or close and may fail to hold in an open position without some other prop device. This is an inconvenient & dangerous situation! We can recondition most gas springs to original condition.
  • LS Technologies can adjust the pressure and damping of any gas charged lift device, whether you need OEM or customized specifications we can help!

If you would like more information, require parts or service, please contact us!