How Can You Extend the Lifespan of Your Gas Springs?
- lucidgs
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 22
Gas springs work hard. Whether they’re keeping hatches open, lifting heavy panels, or making motion smooth in industrial equipment, they’re always under pressure. At Lucid Gas Springs, we know our springs are built to last. But even the best components need care to perform at their peak for the long haul.
If you’ve been wondering how to make your springs go the distance, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re breaking down simple ways to extend the life of your springs so you can keep things moving without surprise replacements or costly downtime.
Why It’s Worth Paying Attention?
We get it, maintenance isn’t always top of mind. But ignoring your springs can shorten their lifespan and cause equipment failures when you least expect them. You’ve invested in high-quality components. Now it’s time to protect that investment. Whether you're in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or cabinetry, making your gas springs last longer saves time, money, and headaches. At Lucid Gas Springs, we’re not just here to sell you a product. We're here to help you get the best out of it, day in and day out.
Keep It Clean and Dry
Here’s what you need to watch out for:
● Dust and debris can get trapped on the piston rod, wearing down seals and causing leaks.
● Moisture exposure can lead to rust, especially if your spring isn’t stainless or treated.
● Chemicals like solvents and harsh cleaners? Avoid them at all costs, they can degrade seals quickly.
What you can do:
● Wipe the piston rod gently with a clean cloth regularly.
● Keep the mounting area clean and dry.
● Use mild cleaners only, nothing corrosive.
Avoid Side Loading at All Costs
Side loading is a silent killer. When a gas spring isn’t mounted straight, the rod gets pushed sideways, putting stress on the seals and internal components. That leads to premature failure.
Best practices:
● Always align your spring in a straight line between the two mounting points.
● Use self-aligning mounts when needed.
● Check the installation during maintenance to make sure nothing has shifted.
Store Them the Right Way
Believe it or not, storing unused springs the wrong way can impact performance down the road.
Here’s how to store them properly:
● Keep the rod facing downward to prevent seal drying.
● Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.
● Make sure the springs are not under pressure or compressed during storage.
This small step helps preserve the internal gas pressure and oil, so your springs are ready when you need them.
Practical Tips to Boost Lifespan
Let’s keep it simple. Here are quick, effective ways to keep your gas springs strong:
● Inspect regularly for leaks or damage.
● Lubricate the mounts, not the piston rod.
● Replace worn-out mounts to avoid misalignment.
● Use within rated load and temperature limits.
At Lucid Gas Springs, we offer a wide range of durable mounting accessories that work perfectly with our springs for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long should a gas spring last?
With proper maintenance, a quality spring can last 40,000 to 100,000 cycles, depending on application and conditions.
Q2: Can I repair a leaking gas spring?
No. Once a spring leaks, it should be replaced. Trying to repair it is unsafe and ineffective.
Q3: What’s the ideal temperature range for gas springs?
Most of our standard springs operate best between -30°C to +80°C. We also offer models for extreme temperatures.
Q4: Should I lubricate the rod?
No. The piston rod is pre-lubricated internally. External oil attracts dust, which can damage seals.
Q5: Why is my gas spring losing force?
It could be a gas leak, wear from side loading, or temperature changes. Contact us for a quick assessment.
At Lucid Gas Springs, we build every spring with performance in mind, but it’s your upkeep that takes them the extra mile. Contact us today and make your next gas prop last longer than ever.