Gas Strut Force Calculator

Gas Strut Force Calculator — Find Your Exact N Rating

Ordering the wrong strength gas strut is the #1 reason for returns. Enter your panel's weight and mounting measurements below and we'll work out the force (in Newtons) you need, then show you matching products from our range.

This calculator is for general DIY jobs — cabinet doors, toolbox & van lids, motorhome hab doors, hatches, gates and similar hinged panels. Replacing a car bonnet or tailgate strut? Force alone won't guarantee the right fit — go straight to Car Gas Struts by vehicle instead.
kg
Weigh it on bathroom scales if you can — a rough estimate is fine otherwise.
mm
Roughly half the panel's width/length if the weight is evenly spread.
mm
Measure along the panel from the hinge to the strut's lower fixing point.
How is this calculated?

We use the standard moment-balance formula used across the gas spring industry for hinged panels:

F = (W × 9.81 × L) / d

F = force needed per strut (N) · W = panel weight (kg) · L = hinge-to-centre-of-gravity distance · d = hinge-to-strut-mount distance. The result is then multiplied by your chosen safety margin and, if you're fitting two struts, split between them.

This is the same simplified method used by gas strut manufacturers for quick sizing. It's accurate enough for the vast majority of DIY and replacement jobs, but it is an estimate — for anything load-bearing over head height, or where safety is critical, double-check against the manufacturer's spec or ask us before ordering.

Not sure about end fittings? Check the Ball Stud & Clevis End Size Chart, use the Fitting & Bracket Finder, or grab the printable sizing chart to keep handy.