Like a well‑tuned suspension, the right shocks make your tonneau cover glide without a hitch. You’ll find that a few carefully chosen gas struts can handle the weight, resist rust, and install with just a flat‑head screwdriver or hex key. The options span from 20‑inch units pulling 40 lb to 28‑inch heavy‑duty models delivering 200 lb, each promising smooth operation and lasting durability. Curious which one fits your truck or RV best?
| Heavy Duty C16-08055 20in Gas Strut for Pickup & RV Beds |
| Heavy‑Duty Performer | Extended Length: 19.69 in | Compressed Length: 12.20 in | Force Capacity: 120 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BOXI Tonneau Cover Lift Kit (2-Pack) |
| Compact Lift Kit | Extended Length: 28.3 in | Compressed Length: 16.77 in | Force Capacity: 96 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| NB-AERO Truck Tonneau Cover Lift Supports (2 Pack) |
| High‑Force Support | Extended Length: 20 in (center‑to‑center) | Compressed Length: 11.625 in | Force Capacity: 135 lb per prop | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 20″ Gas Shock Strut for Truck Tonneau Cover RV Bed Door Window Boat Hatch Camper Shell Toolbox Lid |
| Budget‑Friendly Choice | Extended Length: 19.69 in | Compressed Length: 12.2 in | Force Capacity: 40 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| ST270M80 27″ Gas Strut 80lb for Trailer Hatch (2 Pack) |
| Versatile 27‑Inch | Extended Length: 27.01 in | Compressed Length: 14.92 in | Force Capacity: 80 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Vepagoo 28″ Gas Strut Set (2 pcs) |
| Maximum Power | Extended Length: 28 in | Compressed Length: Not specified (standard 28‑in strut) | Force Capacity: 200 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| SPD‑GS‑6687 26in Gas Strut for RV/Truck Bed Cover |
| Balanced Strength | Extended Length: 26.32 in | Compressed Length: Not specified (standard 26‑in strut) | Force Capacity: 75 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Heavy Duty C16-08055 20in Gas Strut for Pickup & RV Beds
The Heavy‑Duty C16‑08055 20‑in gas strut is the ideal choice for anyone who wants a tonneau cover that stays securely in place while opening and closing smoothly, whether you’re loading a pickup bed or a RV cargo area. You’ll appreciate its 120 lb (534 N) operating force, which holds the cover steady under wind or cargo weight. Its 19.69‑in extended and 12.20‑in compressed lengths fit most RV doors, trailer hatches, and truck topper shells. We the 1.28 lb strut weighs little but packs power, and the 16.22 × 6.18 × 1.02‑in package slides into tight spaces. Install with a flat‑head screwdriver, compare the OEM rating, and you’re set for smooth, reliable operation.
- Extended Length:19.69 in
- Compressed Length:12.20 in
- Force Capacity:120 lb
- Ball‑Stud Size:10 mm (requires 10 mm brackets)
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):1 strut
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:15‑month exchange, 24‑hr email support
- Additional Feature:24‑hour email support
- Additional Feature:15‑month exchange service
- Additional Feature:DIY mounting brackets
BOXI Tonneau Cover Lift Kit (2-Pack)
Looking for a reliable way to keep your tonneau cover snug while easing the lift effort? The BOXI Lift Kit (2‑Pack) gives you 28.3 in of extended reach and compresses to 16.77 in, so you can lift with minimal strain. Each steel ball‑socket cup (10 mm) handles up to 96 lb of force, far exceeding typical cover weight. We two units weigh only 2.35 lb each and fit into a compact 29.6 × 4 × 1.5 in package. Manufactured by ShangHai BOXI Auto Parts, the kit has been available since June 2016 and remains in production. Amazon backs it with a 30‑day voluntary return guarantee.
- Extended Length:28.3 in
- Compressed Length:16.77 in
- Force Capacity:96 lb
- Ball‑Stud Size:10 mm steel cup
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):2 supports
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:Amazon 30‑day voluntary return
- Additional Feature:Steel ball socket cup
- Additional Feature:2‑pack convenience
- Additional Feature:First available 2016
NB-AERO Truck Tonneau Cover Lift Supports (2 Pack)
Want a smooth, effortless lift for your truck’s tonneau cover? The NB‑AERO gas strut supports give you just that. Each black GS‑000487‑5‑CH unit extends 20 in from ball‑to‑ball and compresses to 11.625 in, delivering 135 lb of force per prop. The 10 mm nylon ball sockets fit standard Leer tonneau covers, ensuring a firm connection that holds the cover open without sag. You receive a two‑pack, so both front and rear lifts stay synchronized. Ranked #3,072,281 in Automotive on Amazon, they’ve been available since August 2016 and come with a 30‑day return guarantee.
- Extended Length:20 in (center‑to‑center)
- Compressed Length:11.625 in
- Force Capacity:135 lb per prop
- Ball‑Stud Size:10 mm nylon socket
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):2 struts
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:Amazon 30‑day voluntary return
- Additional Feature:Nylon ball sockets
- Additional Feature:Black finish
- Additional Feature:Best‑seller rank #3,072,281
20″ Gas Shock Strut for Truck Tonneau Cover
RV Bed Door Window Boat Hatch Camper Shell Toolbox Lid
Need you need a reliable, smooth‑opening solution for truck tonneau covers, RV bed doors, boat hatches, camper shells, toolbox lids, or windows, the 20‑inch gas shock strut from AiYiGu delivers exactly that. Each unit supplies 40 lb (178 N) of force, lifting and holding panels with effortless steadiness. The strut compresses to 12.2 in and extends to 19.69 in, fitting most standard mounts. Installation requires only a flat‑screwdriver—no special tools. You receive two shocks per package, weighing 1.19 lb each, and backed by a 24‑month warranty plus Amazon’s 30‑day return guarantee. This versatile, budget‑friendly support keeps lids secure and opens smoothly every time.
- Extended Length:19.69 in
- Compressed Length:12.2 in
- Force Capacity:40 lb
- Ball‑Stud Size:Not specified (standard 10 mm)
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):2 struts
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:24‑month material & workmanship warranty, 30‑day return
- Additional Feature:24‑month material warranty
- Additional Feature:Flat‑screwdriver installation
- Additional Feature:Dual‑shock package
ST270M80 27″ Gas Strut 80lb for Trailer Hatch (2 Pack)
If you’re hunting for a reliable, smooth‑opening solution for your trailer hatch or tonneau cover, the PAMAGOO ST270M80 27‑inch gas strut delivers exactly that. Each 2‑pack provides 80 lb lift capacity, covering a 65‑88 lb load range, and extends to 27.01 in while compressing to 14.92 in. We weigh only 2.09 lb, so they won’t add much weight. Installation needs no special tools, and the guide walks you through mounting in minutes. The shock‑absorbing gas spring guarantees quiet, controlled lifts for hatch doors, truck covers, boat engine hatches, or DIY lids. You also get an 18‑month support guarantee and a 30‑day return policy.
- Extended Length:27.01 in
- Compressed Length:14.92 in
- Force Capacity:80 lb
- Ball‑Stud Size:Not specified (standard 10 mm)
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):2 struts
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:18‑month support guarantee, 30‑day return
- Additional Feature:18‑month customer support
- Additional Feature:Quick‑lift after mounting
- Additional Feature:Wide application range
Vepagoo 28″ Gas Strut Set (2 pcs)
Heavy‑duty truck owners who demand a rock‑solid, smooth‑closing tonneau cover will appreciate the Vepagoo 28‑inch gas strut set, delivering a firm 200 lb (889 N) force per strut that locks the cover in place and prevents accidental collapse. You’ll swap the two SH302A units in about five minutes using only a flat screwdriver—no extra tools needed. The integrated iron ball shell and M8 ball head bolt keep the struts secure, while the non‑disassemblable design resists tampering. With 200 lb operating force, the cover stays open under heavy gear, snowmobile caps, trailer lifts, or toolbox lids. Vepagoo backs the set with 24‑hour email support and an 18‑month protection plan.
- Extended Length:28 in
- Compressed Length:Not specified (standard 28‑in strut)
- Force Capacity:200 lb
- Ball‑Stud Size:Integrated iron ball shell (M8 bolt)
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):2 struts
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:18‑month full order protection, 30‑day return
- Additional Feature:Integrated iron ball shell
- Additional Feature:Non‑disassemblable design
- Additional Feature:24‑hour email assistance
SPD‑GS‑6687 26in Gas Strut for RV/Truck Bed Cover
The SPD‑GS‑6687 26‑inch gas strut is the ideal upgrade for anyone who wants a tonneau cover that lifts smoothly and stays securely in place, whether you’re loading a truck bed or a RV motorhome. You’ll get a 2‑piece set with a 26.32‑inch extended length and a 75‑lb operating force that handles heavy lids without sagging. Each strut weighs just 1.76 lb, and the package includes 10 mm ball‑stud brackets, so a flat‑head screwdriver does the job. It matches dozens of OEM numbers, covering truck toppers, camper doors, and shed windows. Euplokeer backs it with 24‑hour email support, a 15‑month exchange, and Amazon’s 30‑day return guarantee.
- Extended Length:26.32 in
- Compressed Length:Not specified (standard 26‑in strut)
- Force Capacity:75 lb
- Ball‑Stud Size:10 mm (included brackets)
- Package Qty (Units per Pack):2 struts
- Warranty / Return Guarantee:15‑month exchange, 24‑hr email support, 30‑day return
- Additional Feature:Includes 10 mm brackets
- Additional Feature:Flat‑head screwdriver install
- Additional Feature:15‑month exchange guarantee
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shocks for Tonneau Cover
When picking shocks, you’ll first check the load capacity rating to make sure it can handle your cover’s weight. Next, verify mounting compatibility, dimensions, and weather‑resistant materials so the unit fits and lasts outdoors. Finally, consider the required installation tools and the load capacity range to match your DIY skill level and performance needs.
Load Capacity Capacity Rating
Ever wonder how to pick a gas strut that truly supports your tonneau cover? Start by checking the force rating—choose a strut whose capacity exceeds the cover’s weight plus any extra load like wind or accessories. Capacity is listed in pounds or newtons; a 120 lb (534 N) unit can handle roughly 1.5 × the weight of an 80 lb (355 N) cover, giving you a safety margin. Make sure the extended and compressed lengths match the cover’s travel distance, otherwise you’ll over‑extend or get insufficient lift. Higher‑capacity struts feel firmer and curb sag, but they demand sturdier mounting brackets. Finally, confirm the ball‑stud diameter (e.g., 10 mm) and hardware can bear the chosen rating without bending or deforming.
Mounting Compatibility Dimensions
If you’re swapping out a gas strut, start by confirming that the ball‑stud bracket diameter—usually 10 mm—matches the original, and that the hole‑to‑hole spacing aligns with both the extended and compressed lengths. Measure the original strut’s extended length and compare it to the replacement’s extended length; make sure the cover clears the frame when fully opened. Next, verify the compressed length fits within the closed‑cover envelope, avoiding contact with the vehicle’s under‑body or other hardware. Check the mounting hardware required—flat‑head screw size, bracket type, and any washers—to guarantee a secure fit on the existing mounting points. Finally, match the strut’s load rating to the cover’s weight and size; an undersized rating will sag, while an oversized one may overstress the brackets. This careful dimension check keeps the tonneau cover smooth and stable.
Weather Resistance Materials
Ensuring the ball‑stud bracket and mounting holes line up correctly sets the stage for a durable, weather‑ready setup. Choose struts coated with powder‑coat or stainless‑steel to fend off rust in humid or salty air. Look for UV‑stabilized seals and polymeric housings so sun exposure won’t crack or discolor the material. Gas springs with nitrile or silicone gaskets keep water out, preserving smooth operation in rain or snow. Opt for high‑temperature‑rated alloys like 304/316 stainless steel; they hold strength from –30 °C up to 60 °C, preventing sag or failure during temperature swings. Finally, verify that the ball‑stud and mounting hardware are rust‑proof or plated, ensuring long‑term durability without corrosion.
Installation Tool Requirements
What tools you’ll need can make or break a smooth installation, so start by checking whether the strut works with a simple flat‑head screwdriver—most do. If the strut uses a 10 mm ball‑stud bracket, that same screwdriver will secure the mounting bolts, so you won’t have to hunt for a specialty driver. For models with integrated ball sockets, grab a 4 mm or 5 mm hex key; it’s all you need to tighten the socket bolts. Heavier‑duty struts may call for a torque wrench to hit the correct clamping force, ensuring the cover stays tight under load. When a pre‑drilled mounting plate is included, a drill with a 6 mm bit will let you punch pilot holes quickly before fastening the plate. Choose the right tool set, and the installation will be fast, clean, and reliable.
Load Capacity Range
When picking a strut, make sure its force rating exceeds the total weight of the cover plus any extra load—aim for 1.2–1.5 × that weight for reliable opening. For a light cover (≤ 30 lb), a 40–60 lb low‑force strut works fine; heavier covers (≥ 80 lb) need 120 lb or more. Check the strut’s load range: the minimum force should cover normal opening, while the maximum must handle unexpected loads like wind or snow. Align the extended length with the cover’s fully open dimension and the compressed length with the closed position to guarantee proper travel. Finally, confirm the mounting brackets and ball‑stud size (e.g., 10 mm) can sustain the chosen strut’s capacity without bending or deformation.
Warranty Service Availability
If you overlook the warranty details, you could end up stuck with a faulty strut and no recourse. First, verify the manufacturer’s warranty length—12‑, 15‑, or 24‑months—so you know how long you’re protected. Check whether it covers both material defects and workmanship and whether it offers a full exchange or just repair. Confirm the claim process: is there an email address or an online form, and will you get a response within 24 hours? Also, see if the seller honors the warranty, such as Amazon’s 30‑day return guarantee, which adds an extra safety net. Finally, read the exclusions carefully; improper installation or misuse can void coverage, leaving you without support.