Community Forums

GraciesMom · 09-09-2008, 10:30 AM

None of the things that hold up the storage bin doors work on my RV. I have to prop them up with a stick. Is there any way to repair these or do I just have to bite the bullet and get new ones? Thanks!

GraciesMom · 09-09-2008, 10:30 AM

None of the things that hold up the storage bin doors work on my RV. I have to prop them up with a stick. Is there any way to repair these or do I just have to bite the bullet and get new ones? Thanks!

Route 66 · 09-09-2008, 10:45 AM

If the struts are bad, then ya gotta get new ones.

lthrnk · 09-09-2008, 01:11 PM

Yep, gotta replace them.

becks · 09-09-2008, 05:08 PM

Sounds like you need new cargo door struts. Go to Advance Auto Parts or Auto Zone. They can usually match them for a better price.

AFChap · 09-09-2008, 05:09 PM

The gas struts come in different lengths and strengths, and you need to replace yours with the right ones. Some folks have found replacements are local auto parts stores -- you might try taking one of each length you have in to compare. If you can't find them locally, I would recommend dealing with Lichtsinn Motors in Forest City -- they normally can sell you the right part plus shipping for less than you will pay at a local dealership. You will need your coach serial number so they can be sure you get the right parts when you call them at 800-343-6255

RVThere · 09-09-2008, 05:20 PM

If you REALLY want to go cheap, you can buy a bunch of those 'hook suction cup' things that you can put on the mirror to hang up your towels.
Stick the suction cup/hook to the motorhome (make sure its clean or it won't stick) above the storage bin door. Next take a bungie cord and attach one end to the door hinge and the other to the hook running the cord under the open door. Voila, your door stays up!

riggarob · 09-10-2008, 06:40 AM

Go to NAPA w/ the old struts. They can get you the correct one w/ the #s from the old one. In my case, I wanted stronger units, so they got the length I needed, but upped the pressure. This is especially important if you are tired of the ones, for your bed, giving out all of the time ! Robbie

P.S. SEMPER FI !!

chasfm11 · 09-10-2008, 07:08 AM

Sorry, but it is replacement time. I've had to replace several on ours and now keep a spare of the most common pressure.

Be careful. Not all of the ones available are going to match your application. As someone else pointed out, the two key numbers are the length of the stroke (measure at full extension) and the pressure. I tried NAPA and even Camping World but neither had the stuts that I needed. I ended up ordering from RV Wholesalers.

The replacement is the easiest part. Since you are already propping them open, you should have a board that is long enough. "Long enough" means that the board will hold the door open to the full extension of the strut. With no pressure on them, my struts have a metal band around the rubber ends which is easily raised with a small screwdriver, allowing the end to separate from the ball mount on door and frame. Putting the new ones on is no more difficult than removing the old ones.

David K · 09-10-2008, 04:15 PM

Another good place to check is up on Ebay. I have replaced some of mine by buying replacements up there. Just watch the shipping costs --- the ones I bought were cheaper than buying locally.

GraciesMom · 09-10-2008, 06:06 PM

Who in the world named that part a "strut?" LOL!! Thanks guys!!

chasfm11 · 09-11-2008, 02:40 AM

If you order for an online supplier, they might actually call the part a "gas prop".

Ding-a-ling · 09-11-2008, 04:29 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by GraciesMom:
Who in the world named that part a "strut?" </div></BLOCKQUOTE>GraciesMom,
strut noun, verb, strut·ted, strut·ting.
–noun 1. any of various structural members, as in trusses, primarily intended to resist longitudinal compression. See diags. under king post, queen post.
–verb (used with object) 2. to brace or support by means of a strut or struts.

GraciesMom · 09-12-2008, 02:19 PM

My sense of humor was lost on that one . . . .

1. to walk with a vain, pompous bearing, as with head erect and chest thrown out, as if expecting to impress observers.
2. the act of strutting.
3. a strutting walk or gait.

"”Idiom4. strut one's stuff, to dress, behave, perform, etc., one's best in order to impress others; show off.