Heavy Duty Gas Struts 28 in 250Lb Lift Support - Heavy Lid

In this review of the 28 in 250Lb gas struts by ARANA, the bottom line is simple: these are purpose-built lift supports for heavy lids that need a firm, long throw. The reviewer found they work best on lids weighing between 200 and 275 lbs and on side lengths around 45 in, and that the biggest reason to buy is the combination of long extended length and high 250Lb force per strut which makes opening and holding heavy trap doors, sled trailer caps, or RV hatches far easier than lighter alternatives.

Key Features

• 28 in extended length: The long 28 in center-to-center extension gives ample travel and reach for deep lids and tall hatch openings.
• 250Lb lift force per strut: Each strut supplies strong support suitable for lids that weigh between 200 and 275 lbs, reducing the effort to lift heavy panels.
• Compact compressed length: At about 16.2 in compressed center-to-center, these struts fit many common mounting positions without excess protrusion.
• OEM compatibility: Matches a wide range of OEM numbers so it can replace many original heavy-duty gas springs on trailers and RVs.
• Pair included: Comes as a set of two struts, which is the correct configuration for most dual-support lid applications.

Who It's For

The best candidates are owners of snowmobile sled trailers, heavy sled trailer caps, truck bed covers, trap doors, floor hatches, Murphy beds, and heavy engine hatches where the lid weight sits in the 200 to 275 lb range. Installers who need a long stroke and very strong lift will appreciate the 28 in reach and the 250Lb rating.

Those who should look elsewhere are users with lids lighter than about 200 lbs or heavier than 275 lbs, or anyone who requires mount brackets included in the package; this product ships as two gas springs and instructions only, and mounting hardware is sold separately.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong 250Lb force per strut provides confident lift and hold for heavy lids.
• Long 28 in extended length gives good travel and clearance for many hatch designs.
• Easy to install in most cases and typically takes only a few minutes when brackets are already in place.
• Wide OEM compatibility makes it a useful replacement option for many applications.

Cons

• Durability reports are mixed; some users have reported failures after several months of heavy use.
• Mounting brackets are not included, so additional purchases may be required for complete installation.

Specifications

Extended length (center-to-center)	28 in (712 mm)
Compressed length (center-to-center)	16.2 in (411 mm)
Lift force	250 lb per strut
Recommended lid weight	200-275 lb
Quantity	Set of 2 gas struts
Common uses	Snowmobile trailer caps, trap doors, floor hatches, Murphy beds, engine hatches

Our Verdict

For anyone replacing or upgrading supports on a heavy lid in the 200 to 275 lb range, these 28 in 250Lb gas struts are a practical, value-oriented choice because they combine long travel with strong lift. They deliver reliable opening assistance and a secure hold for many trailer and hatch applications, but buyers should budget for mounting hardware and be aware that durability can vary with heavy, frequent use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these struts fit my lid?
They are intended for lids weighing between 200 and 275 lb and side lengths around 45 in; measure your lid weight or check the OEM number to confirm fit.

Are mounting brackets included?
No, the package includes only two gas springs and instructions; brackets must be purchased separately if needed.

What support is available if they are too strong or do not fit?
Contact ARANA for installation help and they offer an 18 month replacement support policy for issues.