engine canopy gas struts

[Cheeseman]

I have a 2000 sea ray 180 and the gas struts that hold the engine cover up need to be replaced. The ones that are on their now are short and I need longer ones. The struts that I am finding (auto zone, orielly, napa) are either not long enough or they are made to hold a much higher weight then needed. Does anyone know where to get the correct ones? I see all the struts have a weight limit but I don't know the weight of the canopy.

 

[Lazy Daze]

The weight on the engine cover has nothing to do with it (essentially). It's about the power needed to lift it based on the mounting point (leverage).

If you look in your parts manual (on SR's site if you don't have the original that came with your boat), it will tell you the size you need - both compressed/extended length and poundage. Although you may still be able to read this info on your gas struts if you still have the originals or if someone replaced them with equivelent. Don't buy cheapie ones from auto stores - get some decent marine versions. They'll last longer.

My guess... 12"x20" and probably about 40lbs. It's OK if they're rated a little bit higher.

Your local dealer can certainly get this for you. Just say "I need two gas struts for my boat" and they'll do the legwork Otherwise, look for marine manufacturer such as Attwood.

 

[Cheeseman]

Thank you for replying so quickly. I just found an owners manual and I was able to find the part description and number. I went to two different marine shops earlier today and neither was able to help. They didn't have any in stock and weren't really familiar with these exact parts. However, I have not tried a boat dealership. Thanks again.

 

[Lazy Daze]

You're welcome. The specific part number is only going to help at a Sea Ray dealership as it's a Sea Ray part number. However, with the info from the manual (length/poundage), really, ANY halfway decent marine parts store should be able to help. This is a VERY common part. Or... just take one of the struts with you along with a note of the poundage from the manual. This should really be something that you can get VERY readily - I'm not sure why you're having trouble.

 

[sbw1]

I've had good luck searching the internet web sites for various manufactures of gas struts. If you can see a brand name on the part that helps but is not essential as the boat builders see them as somewhat generic. There is a lot of helpful info on web sites about how to size them and the buying process is user friendly as well.