looking to add lid struts to 2021 Ranger RT198P.

[crappie pappy]

New 2021 Ranger RT198P lids won't stay open. Want to add struts to them to keep open. Anyone added struts yet? Which did you use? I found some on West Marine, but a bit pricey.

[Extremeboating]

I've been somewhat on the hunt for the same thing for my deck extension hatch lid as well. Haven't really found a good solution so in the meantime I've been treating it as a standard hatch, it's just a large hatch lid so I'd sort of prefer it not open all the way back and take up walking space as it's open. Curious to see who will chime in and offer some solutions or suggestions so I'll be watching this thread closely.

[crappie pappy]

I've watched several you tube videos on how to choose size and install so I think I have a fair idea how to. Also found several struts on amazon, but just looking for some input from someone who's done it. But I will pick one up and give it a try!

[Slicefixer]

I bought cheap gas struts off of eBay/Amazon.....20# versions the best I remember. The installation is very easy if you're remotely mechanical. So far they've held up great and performed properly. The only issue is they tend to rust (WD40) and I've had one go bad. However they are so cheap I'd purchased extras just in case. It takes, literally, 30 seconds to swap one out. I wouldn't be without them now that I've had them.

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[Johnnyred]

I had my dealer add a strut to the port-side bow rod locker on my 2021 RT198P before I even took delivery. I am not sure what brand or size. Works great. That locker lid used to go past 90 degrees on earlier model years and stay open but the redesigned 2021 models it does not. The lid on the starboard compartment in front of the cooler does not stay open either but I did not add one there.

[crappie pappy]

You and I have the same boat, and same problem! I want to add a strut to both lids. And if they work out, I might add struts to the back lid too.

[Extremeboating]

I bought cheap gas struts off of eBay/Amazon.....20# versions the best I remember. The installation is very easy if you're remotely mechanical. So far they've held up great and performed properly. The only issue is they tend to rust (WD40) and I've had one go bad. However they are so cheap I'd purchased extras just in case. It takes, literally, 30 seconds to swap one out. I wouldn't be without them now that I've had them.

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That looks really nice. Clean and effective. Do you have the collapsed and extended measurements on it? Those literally look like they would work for my hatch style setup, as they appear very similar in dimensions and my bracing is near smack dab in the middle as well.

[Slicefixer]

Here ya go!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N57HAFT...ing=UTF8&psc=1

[Extremeboating]

Here ya go!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N57HAFT...ing=UTF8&psc=1

Thank you! Now I gotta go measure my hatch to center brace distances. This is a great reference.

[Slicefixer]

Thank you! Now I gotta go measure my hatch to center brace distances. This is a great reference.

You're most welcome! Spray em with wd40 periodically and you'll be good to go. 👍

[Crab orchard renegade]

Just ordered myself a set! Thanks!
.

[Slicefixer]

Just ordered myself a set! Thanks!
.

Good deal Crab! Just remember, WD40 (or something similar)....😉

[Smallie_Hawgin]

Recently did the larger hatches on the 2001 X19. I had the 20 lb struts at first, but they couldn't do the job. 45 lb struts took care of it. Fairly easy install for sure.

[Slicefixer]

Recently did the larger hatches on the 2001 X19. I had the 20 lb struts at first, but they couldn't do the job. 45 lb struts took care of it. Fairly easy install for sure.

I just doubled up the 20's.....equalized the pressure/stress on both sides.