RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs. Review

Behind the Box: Testing the RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs.

When the lift support on my RV’s storage compartment started sagging, losing its ability to hold its weight with any confidence, I knew a replacement was inevitable. It’s a minor inconvenience that quickly becomes a major annoyance, especially when you’re trying to access gear in the rain or juggling multiple items. The RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs., with its advertised 17-inch extension and 90-pound force, seemed like a robust solution for such a common problem. I considered generic, unbranded props from online marketplaces, but the allure of a known RV parts manufacturer, even for something as seemingly simple as a gas strut, felt like a safer bet for longevity. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; it felt weighty and well-sealed, a promising sign for its intended purpose.

Real-World Testing: Putting RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs. to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground for this gas prop was, naturally, my own RV’s compartment door. The installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and about fifteen minutes per strut once I had the hang of it. I replaced the sagging original with the RV Designer unit, and the difference was immediately apparent. The compartment door, previously a reluctant participant, now sprang open with a firm, satisfying push, holding its position without any hesitation. I tested it in typical garage conditions, noting its smooth extension and retraction.

After a few weeks of consistent use, opening and closing the RV door several times a week, the gas prop continued to perform flawlessly. It endured a light dusting from gravel during a recent campsite setup and even a brief shower without any apparent loss of function or signs of corrosion on the exterior. The RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs. proved to be intuitive from the first operation, requiring no fiddling or adjustment beyond the initial mounting.

Extended Use & Reliability

Months have now passed, and this gas prop has become a silent, reliable workhorse. The compartment door it supports still opens with the same eagerness it did on day one, and more importantly, it stays put. I’ve subjected it to repeated cycles of use, often with the compartment loaded, and there’s no perceptible dip in its lifting strength. Durability seems to be a strong suit; I haven’t observed any stiffness developing in the piston or any leakage from the seals, which were my main concerns with off-brand alternatives.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent, which is precisely what you want from a component like this. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s ever been needed to keep it looking and functioning well. Compared to a similar gas prop I installed on another project last year that started binding after only a few months, this RV Designer unit is performing exceptionally well. It feels like a product built for the long haul, not just a quick fix.

Breaking Down the Features of RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs.

Specifications

The RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs. comes with an Extended Length of 17 inches, measured from ball cap center to ball cap center. It exerts a Force of 90 lbs (equivalent to approximately 395-405 Newtons), a specification crucial for ensuring it can adequately lift and hold a specific weight. This gas prop is designed to replace existing struts, and it’s important to consult manufacturer recommendations for selecting the correct replacement to avoid over or under-stressing hinges. The one gas prop per package format is standard for individual replacements, meaning you’ll need to purchase two if replacing a pair.

These specifications are critical for proper function and safety. The 17″ extension ensures it matches the geometry of the original mounting points, allowing the compartment door to open to its full designed range. The 90 lbs force is the key performance metric; it needs to be sufficient to counteract the weight of the door but not so strong that it makes the door difficult to close or damages the hinges. For context, many automotive lift supports range from 30 lbs to over 150 lbs, so 90 lbs is a substantial but not extreme force, suitable for many RV compartment doors or hatches.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this gas prop is to assist in opening a lid or door and then hold it securely in place. In this regard, the RV Designer G20 performs admirably. Its 90 lbs of force provides a strong, positive lift, making opening even heavier compartment doors feel effortless. Once extended, it locks firmly, eliminating any worries about the door unexpectedly dropping.

Its strength lies in its consistent performance. There’s no discernible lag or weakness when extending, nor any creep when holding the door aloft. The only minor drawback is that, like most gas props of this force, closing the door requires a deliberate push against the pressure. This is to be expected and is a sign of its robust sealing and gas pressure.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the RV Designer unit is quite good. It features a robust steel construction for the main cylinder and piston rod, with a clean, consistent finish. The ball caps at each end appear sturdy and are designed to accept standard mounting hardware, which is essential for ease of installation.

Ergonomically, while a gas prop isn’t something you “hold,” its performance directly impacts the user’s experience. The smooth, controlled extension and retraction make operating the RV door much more pleasant and less of a physical struggle than with a worn-out strut. The extended length is also an ergonomic consideration, as an improperly sized prop can lead to doors opening too far or not far enough.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing period, the RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs. appears to be built for durability. The piston rod shows no signs of scoring or pitting, and the seals remain tight. Gas struts, by their nature, are sealed units, so maintenance is minimal; the primary concern is preventing physical damage to the rod or cylinder.

The typical failure point for gas struts is seal degradation or loss of gas pressure over time. However, this particular unit has shown no signs of such issues, suggesting good quality seals and a reliable manufacturing process. If it were to eventually fail, replacement would be as simple as its installation, assuming the mounting points remain intact.

Accessories and Customization Options

This product, being a replacement part, typically does not come with extensive accessories. It includes the one gas prop per package as listed, and it relies on existing mounting hardware that is usually attached to the RV or vehicle body and the compartment lid. Some users might opt for new mounting brackets or ball studs if their old ones are corroded or damaged, but these are usually sourced separately based on the specific application.

Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is generally high, as it utilizes standard ball-and-socket style mounting. However, customization is not really a factor here; the goal is to match existing specifications for a seamless replacement.

Pros and Cons of RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs.

Who Should Buy RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs.?

This gas prop is an ideal choice for RV owners, boat owners, or anyone with a vehicle or utility box that utilizes hinged lids or doors and requires a reliable lift support. It’s perfect for those who are experiencing sagging or failed lift struts and want a dependable, direct replacement. Home workshop users with custom cabinets or toolboxes that need a firm lift assist would also benefit.

Those who should consider alternatives might be individuals looking for a very low-cost, temporary fix, or those who need a significantly higher or lower force than the 90 lbs offered. For anyone needing a very specific length outside the 17″ extension, other models would be necessary.

Conclusion on RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs.

The RV Designer G20 Gas Prop 17″ Extension 90 Lbs. is a high-quality, effective replacement gas strut that delivers on its promises. Its robust build, consistent performance, and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment for anyone dealing with a faulty lift support. The $38.99 price point feels justified given its apparent durability and the peace of mind it provides. I would readily recommend this gas prop to fellow RVers and DIY enthusiasts seeking a reliable solution for their lifting needs.