RV Cabinet Door Strut Types and Functions
RV cabinet door struts are essential components that ensure smooth and controlled opening and closing of cabinets in recreational vehicles. They provide support and prevent doors from slamming shut, enhancing convenience and safety. Different types of struts are available, each with its own unique characteristics and applications.
Types of RV Cabinet Door Struts
RV cabinet door struts come in various types, each designed to meet specific needs. The most common types include gas struts, hydraulic struts, and spring-loaded struts.
- Gas Struts: These struts utilize a sealed cylinder filled with pressurized nitrogen gas. When the strut is compressed, the gas pressure resists the compression force, providing a controlled extension and retraction. Gas struts are known for their smooth and consistent operation, offering a controlled and predictable force throughout the stroke.
- Hydraulic Struts: Hydraulic struts rely on a hydraulic fluid within a cylinder to generate resistance. The fluid is forced through a small orifice, creating resistance and dampening the movement. Hydraulic struts provide a more controlled and dampened motion compared to gas struts, especially at high speeds. They are also known for their durability and ability to handle heavier loads.
- Spring-Loaded Struts: These struts utilize a spring mechanism to provide support and resistance. When the strut is compressed, the spring stores energy and then releases it when the strut extends. Spring-loaded struts are typically less expensive than gas or hydraulic struts but may not offer the same level of control and smoothness.
Advantages and Disadvantages of RV Cabinet Door Struts
Each type of RV cabinet door strut has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it suitable for different applications.
- Gas Struts:
- Advantages: Smooth and consistent operation, lightweight, relatively inexpensive, long lifespan.
- Disadvantages: Can be susceptible to temperature changes, limited load capacity.
- Hydraulic Struts:
- Advantages: Durable, high load capacity, controlled and dampened motion, resistant to temperature changes.
- Disadvantages: More expensive than gas struts, heavier, can leak fluid over time.
- Spring-Loaded Struts:
- Advantages: Least expensive, simple design, easy to install.
- Disadvantages: Can be noisy, limited load capacity, less smooth and controlled operation.
Common RV Cabinet Door Strut Applications
RV cabinet door struts are widely used in various applications throughout an RV, providing support and controlled movement.
- Overhead Cabinets: Gas struts are commonly used for overhead cabinets, providing a smooth and controlled opening and closing mechanism. They are particularly beneficial for larger and heavier cabinets.
- Lower Cabinets: Spring-loaded struts are often used for lower cabinets, as they offer a simple and cost-effective solution. However, hydraulic struts can be used for heavier lower cabinets that require more robust support.
- Exterior Doors: Hydraulic struts are often used for exterior doors, such as the RV’s entry door or storage compartment doors. Their high load capacity and controlled motion ensure a secure and reliable closure.
Installing and Maintaining RV Cabinet Door Struts
Installing RV cabinet door struts is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance the functionality and convenience of your RV’s living space. These struts provide support, ensuring doors open smoothly and stay in place, preventing accidental slamming.
Installing RV Cabinet Door Struts
Installing RV cabinet door struts is a relatively simple process that requires basic tools and some mechanical aptitude. Here are the steps involved:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials:
- RV cabinet door struts (ensure they are compatible with your cabinet doors)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Drill with appropriate drill bit
- Optional: Level
- Determine the strut placement:
- Measure the distance between the cabinet door hinge and the opposite side of the cabinet.
- Select struts that are slightly shorter than this distance to allow for proper door opening and closing.
- Mark the strut mounting points on the cabinet door and the cabinet frame, ensuring they are aligned horizontally.
- Install the struts:
- Using the drill, create pilot holes at the marked locations on the door and frame.
- Attach the struts to the door and frame using the provided screws. Ensure the struts are securely fastened.
- Test the door opening and closing mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Adjusting the Tension of RV Cabinet Door Struts
Properly adjusted RV cabinet door struts ensure smooth and controlled door opening and closing. Adjusting the tension is essential for optimal performance.
- Locate the tension adjustment mechanism: Most RV cabinet door struts have a threaded rod or a knob that allows for tension adjustment.
- Adjust the tension:
- To increase the tension, turn the adjustment mechanism clockwise.
- To decrease the tension, turn the adjustment mechanism counter-clockwise.
- Adjust the tension until the door opens and closes smoothly and stays in place at the desired position.
Troubleshooting Common RV Cabinet Door Strut Problems
RV cabinet door struts, while durable, can experience issues over time. Understanding common problems and their solutions can save you time and frustration.
- Door not opening or closing smoothly:
- Cause: Worn-out struts, improper tension, or obstruction in the door mechanism.
- Solution: Inspect the struts for damage or wear. Adjust the tension as needed. Check for any obstructions hindering the door’s movement.
- Door slamming shut:
- Cause: Excessive tension in the struts or faulty hinge.
- Solution: Reduce the strut tension. Inspect and tighten any loose hinge screws.
- Door not staying open:
- Cause: Insufficient tension in the struts or a faulty strut.
- Solution: Increase the strut tension. If the issue persists, replace the faulty strut.
RV cabinet door struts are essential for ensuring smooth and reliable operation, especially in the often-treacherous environments RVs encounter. These struts, often gas-charged, help keep cabinet doors open without slamming shut, a welcome feature in a space where every inch counts.
While the focus is often on functionality, the aesthetics of RV cabinetry can also be a priority, and many owners opt for the warmth and elegance of cherry wood cabinets with hardwood floors , mirroring the classic design found in many homes.
Regardless of the chosen aesthetic, high-quality RV cabinet door struts are a key component for maintaining both functionality and a sense of luxury within the RV living space.
RV cabinet door struts are crucial for ensuring smooth and reliable operation, especially in the often-treacherous conditions of the road. For those looking to upgrade their RV cabinets, consider crafting your own shaker cabinet doors, a popular style that adds a touch of elegance.
Making shaker cabinet doors can be a rewarding project, and with the right struts, you can ensure your doors open and close effortlessly, even on the bumpiest of roads.
