Hatch struts, also known as gas springs or lift supports, play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of compartments, hatches, and lift-up panels—especially in RVs, SUVs, boats, and other utility vehicles. While these components are often taken for granted, proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your hatch struts, saving you time, money, and potential hassle down the road.

If you rely on your hatch for daily use, here are some practical tips to help keep those hatch struts in optimal working condition.

1. Keep the Struts Clean and Free of Debris

Over time, dust, dirt, and grime can build up around the piston rod and the surrounding housing. This can cause premature wear or restrict movement.

Tip:

Wipe the exposed portion of the hatch struts with a clean, dry cloth regularly. Avoid using oily or greasy cleaners, as these can attract more dirt and cause the seals to degrade.

2. Inspect for Leaks or Rust

Hydraulic hatch struts can lose pressure if the seals are damaged or if rust has started to form. Periodic visual inspection can help catch small issues before they lead to failure.

What to look for:

  • Oil residue around the rod or seals
  • Visible rust spots
  • Inconsistent or jerky movement when lifting or closing

3. Avoid Using the Hatch as a Handle

It's tempting to use the hatch itself to pull or push when opening or closing it. However, this places unnecessary strain on the hatch struts and can lead to misalignment or even bending of the rod.

Better practice:

Use the designated handles or grips, allowing the struts to work without extra force or torsion.

4. Don't Overload the Hatch

Hatch struts are designed to support a specific weight range. Adding extra weight—such as attaching racks, tools, or heavy items—can push them beyond their capacity, causing them to wear out prematurely.

Tip:

If you've added any modifications to your hatch, consider upgrading to higher-capacity struts to handle the extra load safely.

5. Operate in Moderation During Extreme Temperatures

Extreme cold or heat can affect the gas pressure inside hatch struts, making them stiffer or weaker than usual.

In cold weather:

Struts may become sluggish, and forcing them open could damage the internal components. Let the vehicle or area warm up if possible before use.

In hot weather:

The struts may feel more responsive, but prolonged exposure to high heat can cause the seals to deteriorate.

6. Lubricate Only When Recommended

While it might seem like a good idea to lubricate moving parts, not all hatch struts are designed to be lubricated. Many are sealed systems, and introducing external lubricants can attract dust and debris or cause seal damage.

Check the manufacturer's guidance before applying any lubricant to your struts.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your hatch struts doesn't require a lot of time or effort—but a little regular attention can go a long way in extending their service life. Clean them regularly, avoid overloading, inspect them periodically, and treat them with care. Whether you're managing an RV compartment, a rear hatch on your SUV, or marine storage access, these small habits can make a big difference in performance and longevity.

By keeping your hatch struts in top condition, you ensure continued ease of access and safety—no sudden slams, no stuck compartments, just smooth, reliable operation every time.