RussianHow to Measure Gas Spring Extended Length and Stroke Correctly
Updatetime：2026-10-07 Visits：1004
Replacing or specifying a gas spring starts with three dimensions: extended length, compressed length and stroke. A measurement taken from the wrong points can produce a unit that does not fit, bottoms out too early or fails to reach the required opening angle. LONGXIANG GAS SPRING recommends measuring the installed mechanism and the gas spring separately before ordering a replacement or approving a new design.
What Extended Length Means
Extended length is normally the center-to-center distance between the two mounting points when the gas spring is fully extended. For ball sockets, measure from the center of one ball joint to the center of the other. For eyelets or clevis fittings, use the center of the mounting holes.
Do not measure only the visible cylinder and rod. End fittings are part of the installed length, and different fittings can change the total dimension even when the gas spring body is identical.
How to Measure Compressed Length
Compressed length is the center-to-center distance at full compression. If the existing gas spring is still installed, support the lid safely and measure the mounting centers when the mechanism is fully closed. Never force the gas spring shorter than its designed travel.
The mechanism should reach its own mechanical stop before the gas spring reaches absolute full compression. A small travel reserve helps prevent impact loads from damaging the piston, seal, brackets or mounting pins.
Understanding Stroke
Stroke is the distance the piston rod travels between the compressed and extended positions. A practical check is:
Stroke equals extended length minus compressed length.
This calculation is valid only when both dimensions are measured between the same mounting centers and use the same end fittings. The visible rod length may not equal the usable stroke because part of the rod can remain inside the guide at full extension.
Measure the Mechanism, Not Only the Old Part
An old gas spring may have been incorrectly selected, modified or installed in the wrong holes. Record the hinge location, closed mounting coordinates, open mounting coordinates and required opening angle. Check clearance around the cylinder and rod throughout the entire movement.
LONGXIANG GAS SPRING recommends measuring both sides independently when two gas springs are used. Small differences in bracket position can cause unequal travel, twisting or one unit reaching its end position first.
Information to Send for Selection
Provide the extended center-to-center length, compressed center-to-center length, required stroke, end fitting type and mounting thread. Also include the moving weight, center of gravity, hinge position, opening angle, operating temperature and required force if known.
Photos should show the complete mechanism in both open and closed positions. A simple drawing with mounting dimensions is more useful than a close-up image of the old gas spring alone.
Product information: https://www.lxgasspring.com/product
Contact LONGXIANG GAS SPRING: https://www.lxgasspring.com/contact
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I measure a gas spring while it is pressurized?
Yes, but only when the load is safely supported and the unit can move without sudden release. Do not drill, heat or open a pressurized gas spring.
Should the gas spring be the mechanical end stop?
No. Separate stops should control the final open and closed positions so the gas spring retains a small travel reserve.
Do replacement end fittings affect length?
Yes. Ball sockets, eyelets and clevises can have different installed dimensions. Confirm the total center-to-center length with the selected fittings.
Conclusion
Accurate dimensions prevent fit and travel problems before production. LONGXIANG GAS SPRING reviews extended length, compressed length, stroke, fittings and mounting geometry together so the selected gas spring works through the complete motion path.
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