Apexstone 45N/10lb 10 inch Gas Struts Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Apexstone 45N/10lb 10 inch Gas Struts are designed to provide reliable support for various lids and doors, allowing them to open gently and remain open. These gas springs are suitable for applications such as RV cabinet doors, toolboxes, and other lift-up mechanisms. Each strut provides 45 Newtons (approximately 10 pounds) of pressure.

Image 1.1: A set of four Apexstone 45N/10lb 10 inch Gas Struts, shown diagonally on a white background.

2. Safety Information

• Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as eye protection, during installation.
• Ensure the mounting surface is stable and capable of supporting the strut's force.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or puncture the gas strut, as it contains pressurized gas.
• Keep hands and fingers clear of pinch points when operating lids or doors supported by the struts.
• Verify correct installation before regular use to prevent injury or damage.

3. Package Contents

Your Apexstone Gas Struts package should contain the following items:

• 4 x Apexstone 45N/10lb 10 inch Gas Struts (made of iron and stainless steel)
• Mounting Screws
• Installation Instructions (this manual)

4. Specifications

Image 4.1: Detailed diagram illustrating the dimensions of an Apexstone gas strut, including extended length, travel, and compressed distance.

5. Setup and Installation

Correct placement of the gas struts is critical for optimal performance, ensuring the lid opens to the desired angle and closes smoothly. The mounting brackets should be securely fastened using the provided screws.

General Installation Steps:

1. Determine Mounting Points: Carefully assess the lid or door and the cabinet/frame where the struts will be installed. The exact placement will affect the opening angle and the force required to close the lid. Experiment with temporary positioning if possible.
2. Mark Screw Holes: Once the optimal mounting points are identified, mark the screw holes for the brackets on both the lid and the cabinet/frame.
3. Attach Brackets: Securely fasten the mounting brackets using the provided screws. Ensure they are tight and stable.
4. Attach Gas Struts: Snap the ends of the gas struts onto the ball mounts of the installed brackets. Ensure a firm connection.
5. Test Operation: Slowly open and close the lid or door to verify smooth operation and that it stays open at the desired angle. Adjust bracket positions if necessary.

Important Note: Incorrect placement can lead to the lid not closing properly or not staying open. Small adjustments to the mounting points can significantly impact performance.

Installation Examples:

Image 5.1: An Apexstone gas strut installed on an overhead cabinet door, supporting it in the open position. This shows a typical mounting configuration for upward-opening doors.

Image 5.2: A close-up view of the mounting bracket and ball joint connection of an Apexstone gas strut, demonstrating how it attaches to the cabinet frame.

Image 5.3: Two Apexstone gas struts installed on a wider cabinet door, providing balanced support to keep it open. This setup is recommended for larger or heavier lids.

Image 5.4: Apexstone gas struts installed in an RV overhead cabinet, illustrating their use in recreational vehicles for convenient lid support.

6. Operating Instructions

Once properly installed, the Apexstone Gas Struts will assist in opening and holding your lid or door.

• Opening: Gently lift the lid or door. The gas strut will engage and assist in the opening motion, holding the lid in its open position.
• Closing: Apply gentle downward pressure to the lid or door. The strut will compress, allowing the lid to close smoothly. Avoid forcing the lid shut.

7. Maintenance

Apexstone Gas Struts are designed for durability and require minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Wipe the struts occasionally with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Inspection: Periodically check the mounting points and connections for any signs of loosening or wear. Ensure the ball joints are securely attached.
• Lubrication: No lubrication is typically required for the internal mechanism. If the ball joints appear stiff, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can be applied to the ball and socket.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Warranty and Support

Apexstone offers a 1-year 100% satisfactory warranty for these gas struts. If you encounter any issues or if the product does not perform as expected, please contact Apexstone customer support for assistance.

For warranty claims, exchanges, refunds, or returns, please refer to your purchase documentation or contact the seller directly.

Contact Information: Please visit the official Apexstone store on Amazon or your point of purchase for the most current support contact details.