These heavy-duty shocks are used in the production of Buyers Products Truck Tool Boxes, and can be used as a universal aftermarket part to replace broken or damaged shocks on a variety of applications like cabinets, chests, trucks, trailers, and RVs.
Select the length and strength rating best suited to your application. Note: Part number 3028786 includes a 10 mm ball stud. Ball studs are sold separately on all other models (see "Accessories" below).
Specifications
| Ball Socket Diameter (mm) | 10.00 |
|---|---|
| Compressed Length (in.) | 10.80 |
| Cylinder Diameter (mm) | 18.00 |
| Extended Length (in.) | 17.10 |
| Force Rating (lbs) | 97 |
| Rod Diameter (mm) | 8.00 |
| Stroke | 6.30 |
Precision Engineering: The Buyers Products 97 Pound Gas Spring with 10mm Ball Socket
The Buyers Products 97 Pound Gas Spring, featuring a 10 Millimeter Ball Socket and engineered with an extended length of 17.1 inches and a compressed length of 10.8 inches, represents a pinnacle of robust, reliable, and intelligently designed motion control technology. This heavy-duty gas spring is meticulously crafted to deliver consistent performance and enhanced user safety across a broad spectrum of demanding applications. Far more than a simple support mechanism, it is a sophisticated hydro-pneumatic device designed to provide controlled movement, effortless lifting, and secure positioning for various hinged components, from commercial truck toolbox lids to industrial access panels.
Understanding the Core Technology: How Gas Springs Operate
At its heart, this gas spring operates on fundamental principles of fluid dynamics and pneumatics. Encased within an 18.00 mm diameter cylinder is a precisely calibrated charge of inert nitrogen gas, sealed under high pressure, and a small volume of hydraulic oil. A finely machined 8.00 mm diameter piston rod extends from one end of the cylinder, connected to an internal piston. When an external force acts to compress the gas spring, the piston moves inward, compressing the nitrogen gas. The inherent pressure of the gas then provides the expansive force – in this specific model, a potent 97 pounds – that assists in lifting and holding open heavy loads.
The Significance of Dampened Extension and Undampened Compression
A critical characteristic of the Buyers Products gas spring is its differentiated damping profile: "dampened extension and undampened compression." This engineering choice is deliberate and offers distinct operational advantages:
- Dampened Extension: When the gas spring extends (e.g., when a toolbox lid is opened), the internal hydraulic oil plays a crucial role. As the nitrogen gas expands, it forces the piston to move, but the oil resists this motion by passing through a precisely sized orifice within the piston. This hydraulic resistance creates a controlled, smooth, and gentle opening action, preventing sudden jolts, slamming, or uncontrolled upward acceleration of the supported load. This dampened movement is paramount for user safety, preventing injury, and protecting the longevity of the hinged component and its contents. It ensures that even heavy lids or panels open gracefully and steadily.
- Undampened Compression: Conversely, when the gas spring is compressed (e.g., when a lid is closed), the design allows for "undampened compression." This means there is minimal hydraulic resistance during the closing phase, allowing the user to compress the spring with relative ease. Once the initial force is applied to overcome the gas pressure and initiate closure, the absence of dampening simplifies the action. This dual functionality provides an ideal balance: controlled, safe opening, coupled with straightforward, unhindered closing.
Precision Specifications and Dimensional Accuracy
The precise physical and mechanical specifications of this gas spring are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and compatibility:
- Force Rating (97 lbs): This critical specification denotes the lifting force the gas spring provides at its fully extended state. A 97-pound force rating indicates robust support capability, making it suitable for significantly heavy lids, covers, and panels. Selecting the correct force rating is paramount; too little force will not adequately support the load, while too much force can make closing difficult or stress the mounting points.
- Extended Length (17.10 inches / 434.34 mm): This measurement represents the overall length of the gas spring from the center of one end fitting to the center of the other when it is fully extended. It defines the maximum reach and the opening angle of the application.
- Compressed Length (10.80 inches / 274.32 mm): This is the length of the gas spring when it is fully compressed. It dictates the minimum space required for installation and the closed position of the application.
- Stroke (6.30 inches / 160.02 mm): The stroke is the difference between the extended and compressed lengths (17.10" - 10.80" = 6.30"). This value represents the total travel distance of the piston rod, directly correlating to the range of motion of the hinged component it supports.
- Ball Socket Diameter (10.00 mm): The end fitting is a 10 mm ball socket, an industry-standard connection type known for its versatility and ease of installation. Ball sockets mate with corresponding ball studs, allowing for a degree of angular misalignment during installation and providing smooth, multidirectional articulation during operation. This ensures flexibility and reduces stress on the gas spring and its mounting points.
- Cylinder Diameter (18.00 mm) and Rod Diameter (8.00 mm): These dimensions speak to the structural integrity and internal volume of the gas spring. The 18mm cylinder houses the pressurized gas and oil, while the 8mm rod provides robust mechanical linkage and resistance to bending forces. High-grade materials are employed to withstand internal pressures and external environmental stresses.
Superior Construction and Material Science for Enduring Performance
The durability and long-term reliability of the Buyers Products gas spring stem from its meticulous construction and selection of high-quality materials:
- High-Strength Steel Components: Both the cylinder and the piston rod are constructed from robust steel, precision-engineered to withstand the internal pressures of the nitrogen gas and the dynamic forces encountered during operation. This ensures structural integrity and resistance to deformation.
- Corrosion-Resistant Rod Finish: The piston rod typically features a specialized surface treatment, such as a black nitride finish or chrome plating. This coating provides exceptional resistance to corrosion, rust, and abrasion, which is critical for maintaining smooth operation and extending the lifespan of the seals, especially in outdoor or harsh environmental conditions common to truck, trailer, and RV applications.
- Advanced Sealing System: The integrity of a gas spring relies heavily on its sealing system. This gas spring incorporates high-performance, low-friction elastomer seals designed to prevent the escape of nitrogen gas and hydraulic oil. These seals are engineered for dynamic sealing against the moving piston rod and static sealing at the cylinder ends, ensuring consistent pressure and damping performance over thousands of operational cycles.
- Durable End Fittings: The 10 mm ball socket is fabricated from durable materials, capable of securely attaching to a corresponding ball stud and withstanding the substantial 97-pound force exerted by the spring without deformation or failure. The universal nature of this fitting simplifies replacement and broadens application potential.
Unwavering Reliability, Durability, and Performance Under Diverse Conditions
This heavy-duty gas spring is engineered not just for immediate functionality but for sustained, reliable performance throughout its operational lifespan:
- Extensive Lifecycle Testing: Buyers Products subjects its gas springs to rigorous testing protocols, including cycle testing over tens of thousands of repetitions, to ensure consistent force output and damping characteristics are maintained. This testing validates the product's longevity and reliability in real-world scenarios.
- Temperature Stability: The internal components and fluids are formulated to perform consistently across a wide range of operating temperatures, from extreme cold to intense heat, without significant degradation in force or damping efficiency.
- Vibration and Shock Resistance: Designed for mobile applications such as trucks and trailers, the gas spring is inherently resistant to vibrations and shocks encountered during vehicle operation, preventing premature wear or structural fatigue.
- Maintenance-Free Design: Once installed, these gas springs are largely maintenance-free. The sealed unit means no external lubrication or gas replenishment is typically required, offering a "fit and forget" solution that reduces ownership costs and operational downtime.
- Enhanced Safety: Beyond convenience, the controlled movement provided by the dampened extension significantly enhances safety. It prevents heavy lids from crashing down unexpectedly, protecting users from injury and preventing damage to the contents or the application itself. It also holds loads securely in the open position, even on inclines or during light wind conditions.
Versatile Applications and Universal Compatibility
The "universal heavy-duty" designation of this gas spring underscores its adaptability across a multitude of applications:
- Commercial Truck Toolboxes and Service Bodies: This is a primary application, where the gas spring facilitates effortless opening and secure holding of heavy steel or aluminum toolbox lids, allowing technicians and drivers easy access to tools and equipment. Its robust 97-pound force is ideal for the substantial weight of these covers.
- Utility and Storage Chests: Beyond trucks, the spring can be integrated into large storage chests, industrial bins, or custom-fabricated enclosures, providing assisted lift and controlled closure for various lids and access panels in workshops, garages, and commercial facilities.
- Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and Trailers: RVs and travel trailers often feature numerous storage compartments, bed lifts, and pop-top roofs. This gas spring is perfectly suited for these applications, enhancing convenience and safety for travelers.
- Marine Applications: On boats and marine vessels, it can be used for engine hatches, deck storage compartments, and baitwell lids, where its corrosion-resistant properties are particularly beneficial in saltwater environments.
- Industrial Machinery and Equipment: Access panels, safety guards, and counterbalanced components on various industrial machines can benefit from the controlled motion and holding power of this gas spring.
- Aftermarket Replacement: As a universal aftermarket part, this gas spring serves as an excellent replacement for broken, weakened, or damaged shocks in existing installations. Users must verify that the force rating, extended length, compressed length, stroke, and 10 mm ball socket fitting match their original specifications or are suitable for their intended application. This provides a cost-effective solution for restoring functionality without needing to replace the entire assembly.
Installation Best Practices and Considerations
Proper installation is key to maximizing the performance and lifespan of any gas spring:
- Verification of Specifications: Before installation, always confirm that the 97-pound force, 17.1-inch extended length, 10.8-inch compressed length, and 10mm ball socket diameter align with the application's requirements. Incorrect specifications can lead to poor performance or premature failure.
- Mounting Orientation: While modern gas springs are often versatile, a general best practice, when feasible, is to mount the gas spring with the piston rod facing downwards when the application is in its resting (closed) position. This allows the internal oil to continuously lubricate the rod and seals, promoting smoother operation and extended seal life. However, the design of this Buyers Products unit ensures reliable performance even if this orientation is not strictly followed, thanks to its quality components.
- Secure Attachment: Ensure that the 10 mm ball sockets are securely attached to their corresponding 10 mm ball studs (which may need to be purchased separately, depending on the model). The mounting points on the application must be robust enough to withstand the 97 pounds of force exerted by the spring.
- Avoid Side Loading: Gas springs are designed to handle axial (straight push/pull) forces. Avoid mounting configurations that introduce significant side loading on the piston rod, as this can cause wear to the seals and bending of the rod, leading to premature failure.
- Safety Precautions: Gas springs are under high internal pressure. Exercise caution during installation and removal. Never attempt to open or puncture a gas spring. Always ensure the application is safely supported before removing existing gas springs.
- Post-Installation Testing: After installation, operate the hinged component through its full range of motion to confirm smooth, controlled extension and appropriate compression, verifying that the gas spring functions as intended.
The Buyers Products Advantage: A Commitment to Quality
Choosing a Buyers Products gas spring means investing in a legacy of engineering excellence and a commitment to robust utility. Buyers Products is renowned for manufacturing heavy-duty truck and trailer equipment, and their gas springs are produced to the same exacting standards. This dedication translates into:
- Consistent Quality Control: Each gas spring undergoes stringent quality checks throughout the manufacturing process to ensure it meets design specifications and performance benchmarks.
- Application-Driven Design: The "heavy-duty" designation is not merely a label; it reflects a design philosophy centered on enduring the demanding environments and operational cycles common in commercial, industrial, and recreational applications.
- Reliable Support: With a reputation for durable products, Buyers Products offers solutions that minimize downtime and provide lasting value.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Applications with Precision Control
The Buyers Products 97 Pound Gas Spring with a 10 Millimeter Ball Socket, measuring 17.1 inches extended and 10.8 inches compressed, is an indispensable component for any application requiring controlled, assisted lifting and secure positioning of heavy lids or panels. Its expertly engineered dampened extension ensures safety and smooth operation, while undampened compression facilitates easy closing. Constructed from high-quality materials and designed for universal compatibility and heavy-duty performance, this gas spring delivers exceptional reliability and longevity. Whether upgrading an existing system or integrating into a new design, this robust gas spring provides the precise motion control necessary to enhance user experience, protect equipment, and ensure operational efficiency across diverse industrial, commercial, and recreational settings. Its adherence to precise technical specifications, combined with Buyers Products' reputation for quality, makes it the optimal choice for demanding applications.
