Stop Guessing, Start Measuring
Ordering the wrong replacement lift support can result in a hood that won't close, or a tailgate that slams violently. As a direct manufacturer of tailgate gas struts, Yueli Springs has compiled this definitive guide to measuring gas springs correctly.
The 3 Critical Measurements
Before contacting a supplier or browsing our product catalog, you must obtain these three measurements. Note: Always measure the strut when it is fully extended (open).
| Measurement | How to Measure (Center-to-Center) |
|---|---|
| 1. Extended Length | Measure from the center of the top mounting hole (ball socket/eyelet) to the center of the bottom mounting hole. Do not measure the total end-to-end length of the plastic fittings. |
| 2. Stroke Length | Measure just the exposed shiny silver piston rod (from where it exits the black tube to the base of the top end fitting). |
| 3. Tube Diameter | Use calipers to measure the diameter of the thick black cylinder. Common automotive sizes are 15mm, 18mm, and 22mm. |
How to Read the Force Rating (Newtons)
Look closely at the faded text printed on your old strut's cylinder. You are looking for a number followed by the letter 'N' (e.g., 0450N, 450N, or simply 0450). This indicates the lifting force in Newtons. 10 Newtons equals roughly 1 kilogram of lift.
If the text is completely rubbed off, you can use a bathroom scale to push down on the strut (if you are strong enough to compress it) and read the peak weight right as it begins to move, then multiply by 9.8 to get the Newton rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace a 400N strut with a 600N strut?
No. Increasing the force rating by more than 10-15% will put immense stress on your hinges and make the lid extremely difficult to pull closed. Always match the OEM Newton rating.
Why is center-to-center measurement important?
Different manufacturers use different styles of end fittings (some are long, some are short). By measuring center-to-center of the mounting holes, you ensure the geometric pivot points remain exactly the same.
The Yueli Quality Difference
500h Salt-Spray Tested
QPQ & Electrophoresis surface treatment for extreme anti-corrosion.
50,000-Cycle Fatigue
Multi-lip NBR sealing ensuring a 5-10 year lifespan without leaking.
ISO/TS 16949 Certified
Manufactured in our Guangzhou facility under strict automotive QC standards.
Need a Replacement or Custom Gas Spring?
Whether you need an exact OEM replacement or a custom stroke and force configuration, Yueli Springs is the source factory you can trust.
For the fastest quote, please send us:
- OEM Part Number (if known)
- Extended & Compressed Length
- Force (Newtons)
- End Fittings (Ball socket, clevis, eyelet)
- Estimated Quantity