Fixing Nitro Boat Compartment Shocks: Easy Pull-Out Solutions

Gas struts, also known as gas shocks or gas springs, are used to lift and hold open heavy hatches and lids. They are commonly used on boats, RVs, and off-road vehicles. Gas struts are designed to provide a certain amount of lifting force, making hatches feel weightless and preventing them from slamming shut. This can be particularly useful for boat storage hatches, allowing for hands-free access and making maintenance and organizing tasks easier.

When installing gas struts, it is important to consider the weight of the hatch and the amount of force required to lift it. Additionally, the correct positioning and length of the gas strut are crucial for proper functioning. Gas struts are simple devices that use compressed gas to store energy and provide lifting assistance. They are typically made up of a piston, a connecting rod mechanism, and pressurized gas or oil contained in a sealed cylinder.

In the context of Nitro boats, some owners have reported issues with compartment locks and hatches. It is possible that installing gas struts or shocks could be a potential solution to these problems, providing easier access and preventing damage caused by slamming hatches. However, it is important to carefully measure and calculate the required force and positioning to ensure a successful installation.

Measure the hatch's weight

To fix a Nitro boat compartment shock, you'll need to replace the gas struts. These are used to lift and hold open the hatch lids or doors of your boat's compartments.

Before you can replace the struts, you'll need to measure the hatch's weight to determine the required force of the new struts.

To measure the hatch's weight, you can use a bathroom scale placed at the same height as your hitch. For heavier boats, it is recommended to use a municipal weight scale.

Once you have the hatch's weight, you can calculate the required force for the gas struts using the following formula:

> Force Required = weight x length ÷ distance between the mounting point of the gas strut and the hinge

Alternatively, you can refer to the following weight ranges provided by the manufacturer:

• 5 to 90 pounds for lightweight electronics box doors
• 90 pounds for thick, heavy fiberglass hatches

It is important to note that the required force may vary depending on factors such as angles, mounting position, and leverage. It is recommended to add an additional 10 to 20 percent lift force to ensure sufficient lift.

After measuring the hatch's weight and determining the required force, you can proceed to purchase and install the new gas struts.

Calculate the required force

To calculate the required force to fix a Nitro boat compartment shock, you can use the formula for shock force or shock load. This formula takes into account several factors that influence the force experienced by the shock during compression or extension.

The formula for shock force is:

> SF = L * ( 1 + (1 + (2 * FD * A * E) / (L * LG))^1/2)

Where:

• SF is the shock force (in lbf)
• L is the load (in lbf)
• FD is the falling distance (in inches)
• A is the cross-sectional area of the rope or piston (in^2)
• E is the modulus of elasticity (in lbf/in^2)
• LG is the length of the chord or the gas strut (in inches)

Alternatively, you can use the formula for shock load:

> Shock load = load x [1 + (1 + (2 * FD * A * E) / (load * L))^1/2]

Where:

• Load is the weight of the object (in pounds)
• FD is the falling distance (in inches)
• A is the metallic area of the rope or piston (in^2)
• E is the modulus of elasticity (in lbf/in^2)
• L is the length of the cord or strut (in feet)

To use these formulas, you will need to measure or determine the relevant values for your specific Nitro boat compartment shock. Once you have these values, you can plug them into the formula to calculate the required force.

It's important to note that the gas struts used in boat compartments can have different forces and lengths, so make sure to select the appropriate values for your specific application. Additionally, the force required may vary depending on the angle, mounting position, and leverage of the gas strut.

By calculating the required force, you can ensure that you select a suitable gas strut or shock that can safely handle the load and provide the necessary support for your Nitro boat compartment.

Choose the correct gas strut length

To choose the correct gas strut length, you need to consider both the compressed and extended lengths. The compressed length is the length of the strut when it is fully compressed, and the extended length is the length when it is fully extended. Both measurements are taken from the centre of one end fitting to the centre of the other.

The general rule for choosing the correct length of a gas strut is that it should be approximately 55% of the height of the hatch or door it is intended to support. So, for example, if you have a door that is 1000mm in height, a 550mm long gas strut would be appropriate. This rule can be used to estimate the optimal gas strut length for your application.

When replacing an existing gas strut, you can simply measure the compressed and extended lengths of the old strut to determine the correct size for the replacement. Most struts are sold by their extended length, so this measurement is particularly important.

It is also important to consider the force or pressure rating of the gas strut, which is typically measured in pounds or kilograms. The force rating will determine the amount of lifting force the strut can provide. Gas struts are available in a range of forces, from 5 to 90 pounds, to accommodate different weights of hatches or doors.

Additionally, when installing gas struts, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines and take into account factors such as the angle of installation, mounting position, and leverage. Proper installation will ensure the effectiveness and longevity of the gas struts.

Position the gas strut correctly

Positioning the gas strut correctly is critical to ensuring optimal performance and avoiding potential issues. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for positioning your gas strut:

Firstly, it is important to identify the correct type and size of gas strut for your specific application. Gas struts come in various sizes and weights, typically ranging from 5 to 90 pounds in lifting force. The weight of the hatch or lid you are supporting will determine the required force of the gas strut. It is recommended to measure the weight of the hatch itself and use that as a starting point. However, factors such as angles, mounting position, and leverage will also play a role in determining the required force. There are online calculators available to help you calculate the precise force needed, but it is generally advisable to add an additional 10 to 20 percent lift force to ensure sufficient lifting capacity.

When positioning the gas strut, it is best to mount it halfway between the hinge and the centre of the hatch. This positioning will provide the optimal balance of leverage and force. A longer gas strut mounted farther from the hinge will have more leverage and require less force, while a shorter strut mounted closer to the hinge will have less leverage and necessitate more force. Ensure that the strut is clear of any potential interference and that it has sufficient space to operate without obstruction.

The correct length of a gas strut is typically around 55 percent of the height of the hatch it is lifting. However, it is crucial to take precise measurements to determine the optimal length. Measure both the compressed length (with the strut fully compressed) and the extended length (with the strut fully extended) to ensure your gas strut is the right fit for your application.

When installing a gas strut, it is essential to consider the angle at which the strut will lift the hatch. The mounting position and angle will influence the required force and the overall performance of the gas strut. It is also important to ensure that the gas strut is mounted securely and that all hardware is marine-grade to withstand the environmental conditions.

Finally, when positioning the gas strut, be mindful of any nearby exhaust or engine components, especially on boats with inboard motors. Gas struts have specific operating temperature ranges, and it is important to check these ranges if the strut will be mounted in an engine room or near heat-generating components.

Install the gas strut

Installing gas struts on your Nitro boat can be a straightforward process, but it requires careful measurement and consideration. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install the gas strut:

Step 1: Measure the Hatch

Before purchasing the gas strut, you need to measure the hatch to determine the appropriate size and strength of the strut. Measure the height of the hatch to determine the correct length of the strut. The general rule is that the correct length of a strut is approximately 55% of the height of the hatch. Additionally, consider the weight of the hatch. Gas struts are available in different weight ratings, typically ranging from 5 to 90 pounds. Choose a strut with a weight rating that matches or exceeds the weight of your hatch.

Step 2: Determine the Mounting Position

Decide where you will mount the gas strut on the hatch. The best place is usually halfway between the hinge and the center of the hatch. A longer gas strut mounted farther from the hinge will have more leverage and require less force. On the other hand, a shorter strut mounted closer to the hinge will have less leverage and require more force. Ensure that the strut is clear of any potential interference. Gas struts are strong but are not designed to handle side forces.

Step 3: Calculate the Required Lift Force

To determine the required lift force for the gas strut, you can use the following formula: Force Required = weight x length ÷ distance between the mounting point of the gas strut and the hinge. There are also online calculators available to assist you in determining the correct lift force. It is recommended to add an additional 10-20% lift force to ensure sufficient support.

Step 4: Purchase the Gas Strut

Once you have determined the size, weight rating, and required lift force, you can purchase the gas strut. You can find them online or at marine supply stores. Make sure to buy marine-grade gas struts designed for use in boats.

Step 5: Install the Gas Strut

Now it's time to install the gas strut. If you are replacing an existing strut, simply remove the old one and mount the new one in its place. If you are installing a gas strut on a hatch that didn't come with one, you will need to measure and mark the mounting positions carefully. Drill holes in the marked positions and secure the gas strut with the appropriate hardware. Ensure that the gas strut is mounted with the cylinder on top to keep the seal lubricated.

Step 6: Test and Adjust

After installing the gas strut, test the hatch to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. If adjustments are needed, you may need to reposition the mounting points or change the gas strut's length or weight rating. Remember that gas struts require some trial and error to get just right.

By following these steps, you can successfully install a gas strut on your Nitro boat's compartment, making it easier to access and reducing the risk of slamming. Gas struts are a great addition to your boat, providing convenience and safety when accessing storage compartments.

Frequently asked questions