Community Forums

Dan_S · 04-10-2016, 07:50 PM

Hi all
2010 Winnebago Sightseer
Just trying to fix 1 little thing!
So I noticed the hinge seemed a bit off on one of the outside compartment doors, didn't seem to close as it should. Removed the door and the bent hinge bracket, drilled out the broken screws, hammered it straight and re-hung the door. All good so far. Went to attach the gas shock– found it would take 3 men and a boy to compress it enough to get it back on. If I put one end on the floor and put all my weight on it I could squeeze it about an inch. I can squeeze it with a clamp but, there's no way to get it back on the pegs with the clamp on. This thing has some serious pressure! I've never seen one this tough. I'm going to try and use a banding strap on it and just cut the strap after install. I think this extreme pressure contributed to the bent hinge in the first place. I noticed 1 other door also a bit off.
Any other thoughts?
Thanks
Dan

Ray,IN · 04-10-2016, 08:47 PM

These are designed to be installed when fully-extended. If you cannot install it when the door is fully open, it's not the correct length or even the correct pounds of lift.
My large compartment doors have a 60# gas lift spring on each side. The smaller doors have 45# gas lift springs, one has just one 45# gas spring.
Compare this stubborn gas spring part# to others on your MH. It should never be strong enough to bend a hinge or even open the door against its stopping point, which is where the hinge gets bent.
This chart should help identify both length and strength of your stubborn spring. It also shows how to measure for what you really require.
You might run a search for your make/model MH for sale nearby, then look at what size and length gas springs it has installed, for comparison purposes.

Algonquin · 04-11-2016, 06:18 AM

It sounds like your gas spring has seized or the original was replaced by one that was way too strong. They are not expensive to replace and common lengths are readily available at RV stores. You only need a 10 or 20 pound rating for a side-opening door. I have had problems on many of my compartment doors. Usually the springs lose pressure instead of seizing up. Also, my springs hang outside under the compartment and are exposed to the weather. The hinge ball pivot may rust and seize if not periodically lubricated.

Dan_S · 04-11-2016, 08:06 PM

Thanks for your replys.
I found the gas spring in the catalog, says it's 90lbs.
Wow that seems like a lot!
They do have one listed– same length but 60lbs. might want to look into that one.
Thanks again.
Dan