Lift Arm - Engine room cover

May 22, 2022
9
Hunter 38 Long Pond, Conception Bay
I just replaced both lift arms in the engine room compartment (photo attached), however after less than 2 weeks they are losing strength and cannot hold the cover all the way up. The supplier thinks they were installed backwards. Can anyone tell me from the photo if the one showing is oriented correctly? Thanks
 

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May 22, 2022
9
Hunter 38 Long Pond, Conception Bay
Yes, apparently, if "upside down" the gas may leak out. I don't quite get it either, but that's what I was told.
 
Sep 26, 2008
665
Hunter 340 0 Wickford, RI
It look’s correct to me. The big thick end holds the weight and the thin rod attaches to the wall.
I reference this from my install of the same style lift arm I replaced on my refrigerator door. When that gave out the lid acted like a guillotine, that lid is heavy.
You may just have a faulty lift arm or consider adding a second one if you can.
IMG_0693.jpeg
 
Sep 26, 2008
665
Hunter 340 0 Wickford, RI
Sorry I forgot to mention….my arm couldn’t be reversed as the existing fittings could only accept the install the way you see it in my picture. If you didn’t remove the flanges and it doesn’t appear you did, it can only fit one way.
 

capta

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Jun 4, 2009
4,889
Pearson 530 Admiralty Bay, Bequia SVG
When I was replacing the struts on my truck cap back window, I found that not all struts are created equal. The first set I bought took so much force to collapse that I was afraid I'd break the hinges. A lighter set worked better for me. Try to find a stronger set, in any auto parts store.
 
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Sep 26, 2008
665
Hunter 340 0 Wickford, RI
Capta is right. They are rated in various pressures. Can you match them up to the original ones you had? If the labels are intact they should have a rating number. If not you may need stronger rated pistons to hold the weight.
 
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Oct 29, 2005
2,360
Hunter Marine 326 303 Singapore
What I learnt from supplier, gas spring are usually installed with rod downwards. The oil within the cylinder will lube the seal when in rest position. Fitting with rod upward when at rest likely will shorten the gas spring life.
 
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jviss

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Feb 5, 2004
7,089
Tartan 3800 20 Westport, MA
What I learnt from supplier, gas spring are usually installed with rod downwards. The oil within the cylinder will lube the seal when in rest position. Fitting with rod upward when at rest likely will shorten the gas spring life.
I learned something today! Thanks.