ARANA Gas Struts 28 in 200LB Shock Springs Props - Heavy Lid Support

In this review of the ARANA Gas Struts 28 in 200LB pair, the bottom line is straightforward: these struts are a practical, heavy-duty option for supporting large lids and bed platforms when the load falls between roughly 170 lb and 220 lb for the pair. They are best for DIYers replacing worn lift supports on queen or double platform beds, RV beds, Murphy beds or trap doors who want straightforward mounting hardware included and a predictable extended/compressed stroke. The review focuses on fit, installation, and real-world holding strength.

Key Features

• Rated support range: Designed to work best when one pair supports about 170 lb to 220 lb, giving clear guidance for heavy lids and beds.
• Stroke and length: The struts have a 28 in extended length and 14 in compressed length, providing a 14 in stroke suitable for many furniture and hatch applications.
• Mounting hardware included: Each package includes ball ends and four L-type mounting brackets so you can mount the struts without sourcing brackets separately.
• Easy installation: With the supplied brackets the struts can be installed by drilling and fixing the brackets after determining position, making the fitment process straightforward for most users.
• Versatile uses: These shocks are appropriate as replacements for queen/double beds and for heavy-duty RV beds, trap doors and basement doors where the stated support range applies.
• Warranty support: The product comes with an 18 month replacement service, providing reassurance if there are defects or early failures.

Who It's For

The ARANA 28 in 200 lb gas struts are best for homeowners and RV owners who have heavy lids or bed platforms roughly 42 in to 56 in long and need a durable pair that can support about 170 lb to 220 lb per pair. They suit DIY installers comfortable drilling and mounting small brackets and those who prefer having ball ends and L-type brackets included.

Those who should look elsewhere are people with lids significantly lighter or heavier than the stated range, or projects that demand extra-heavy-duty brackets; some customers reported the supplied brackets can feel light for the heaviest loads, so thicker or reinforced mounting hardware may be advisable for extreme duty applications.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good value for cost with solid felt build quality for the cylinder bodies.
• Clear length specs (28 in extended, 14 in compressed) make selection and replacement straightforward.
• Includes ball ends and four L-type mounting brackets so you can install without separate bracket purchases.
• 18 month replacement support adds confidence after purchase.

Cons

• Some users found the supplied mounting brackets less robust than the struts, so heavier installations may need stronger brackets.
• Strength reports are mixed when used at the top end of the range, so exact fit to the 170 lb-220 lb recommendation matters.

Specifications

Extended length	28 in (711 mm)
Compressed length	14 in (355 mm)
Stroke	14 in
Rated support (pair)	Most suitable 170 lb - 220 lb
Included fittings	Ball ends and 4 L-type mounting brackets
Typical applications	Queen/double platform bed, RV bed, Murphy bed, trap door
Service	18 months replacement

Our Verdict

The ARANA 28 in 200 lb gas strut pair is a pragmatic choice for anyone replacing lift supports on heavier lids and beds within the 170 lb to 220 lb range; they offer predictable stroke and lengths, included brackets and fittings, and good warranty backing. For the price they deliver solid value, though installers handling extreme loads should consider beefing up the mounting hardware to match the cylinder strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these struts fit my queen bed?
They are commonly used on queen and double platform beds when the lid length is about 42 in to 56 in and the supported weight for the pair is roughly 170 lb to 220 lb.

Are mounting screws included?
The package includes ball ends and L-type mounting brackets, but tip screws are not included so you will need appropriate fasteners for your substrate.

What if the brackets bend under load?
Some customers found the supplied brackets light for the heaviest applications; if mounting to soft wood or very heavy lids, use reinforced brackets or heavier fasteners for long-term reliability.