Replacing RV Bed Gas Struts

Replacing RV bed gas struts are a relatively easy task. These bed struts go bad after a few years of use or are needed when bedding is replaced with a heavier mattress. In our case, we replaced our mattress with a Brooklyn Bedding Signature series and along with the added comfort, increased the weight by two and half times. This overloaded the existing gas struts and it was difficult to raise the bed for storage access and the bed would not stay in the raised position. The fix is very easy and cost us around $20.

It’s Easy Replacing the RV Gas Struts

Our first task was to determine the load rating and length of the existing gas struts. This may be found on the gas strut label or a quick search of the model number on Google will give the data needed. Also, measure both the length of the black section of the strut and the overall length when extended before purchasing a new strut.

If the existing bedding is used, stay with the same weight strut as installed at the factory. We knew we increased the weight of our bedding and looked for struts around two times stronger than factory. Our Montana 5th wheel came with 80lb struts and we increased the strength to 150lbs. With a bedding increase, using too little will not ease lifting and staying in place, and too strong could cause attachment pull out from the wood or the bed platform will not stay in place when closed.

We show our process of removing old struts and replacing with new in the video below. It took us less than hour. It’s important to look at the strut used. Some can be removed from the hardware, others may be permanently installed and the struts will need to be unscrewed from the platform and new strut installed. Our installation required us to remove a spring clip holding the strut to the hardware, remove strut, install new strut and replace with the provided spring clip.

I can’t confirm your specific installation needs, but if you have used similar bedding and have the same length in gas strut, I’ve providing a link to the unit we purchased below.

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Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.

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