Open and close your tonneau smoothly with shocks designed for effortless operation. If you’ve ever struggled with a heavy tonneau cover that slams shut or requires two hands just to lift, you know the frustration. That’s where investing in quality shocks for tonneau cover comes in. These little components make a huge difference, giving you that controlled, gliding motion every time. Trust me, once you try them, you wont want to go back to wrestling with your truck bed.
Your tonneau cover should be an extension of your truck’s utility, not a test of your patience. With the right shocks, you get consistent performance in any weather—hot, cold, or rainy. No more sudden drops or awkward balancing acts. Just a smooth, safe open and close every single time. It’s a simple upgrade that transforms your daily routine, making your truck work for you, not the other way around.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Shocks For Tonneau Cover
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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C1608054 20″ Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100…
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9.7 |
Read Review |
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Euplokeer Qty (2) Heavy Duty C16-08055 20in Gas Strut…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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st270edi-45 27 Inch 45lb 200N Gas Struts Spring Shocks…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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Dukuge Undercover Gas Spring ST270EDI-45 Replacement Strut 27 inch…
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8.9 |
Read Review |
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Dukuge 713119 Gas Struts 26 inch 80lb Snugtop &…
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8.7 |
Read Review |
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Dukuge C16-08054 Gas Struts 20 inch 100lb, 6939S10 Gas…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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17 Inch 150Lbs 668N Gas Struts for Heavy Lid…
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8.2 |
Read Review |
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C16-08316 20 Inch 40Lb/178N Gas Strut Spring Shock Lift…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
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ARANA ST270EDI2-45 27 inch 45lbs/200N Gas Strut, spd-gs-6105 27″…
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7.7 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 9 Shocks For Tonneau Cover
C1608054 20" Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054 for Camper Shell RV Bed Tonneau Cover Storage Box Basement Door Floor Hatch Window Lift Struts (Fit 85-110LBs Lid, No Brackets)
The ARANA 20 inch Gas Struts C1608054 is a set of two lift supports designed for lids and covers that weigh between 85 and 110 pounds. Each strut is rated at 100 pounds of force, but the pair works together to handle that total lid weight. If your camper shell, RV bed, tonneau cover, or storage box door falls within that range, these are a direct fit for the job.
The extended length of each strut is 19.7 inches, and when fully compressed it measures 11.8 inches.
This makes them a common replacement for parts numbered 6939, 6939S10, C1608054, or C16-08054. Before you order, measure your current strut or check the weight of your lid. Buying the wrong pressure could cause the lid to slam shut or not stay up at all. These are strong. Do not buy them if your lid weights less than 80 pounds, they will be too powerful.
You can use these struts on a wide range of applications.
They work well on RV and motorhome beds, camper beds, travel trailer mattress platforms, and queen bed lifts. Customers have also installed them on tonneau covers, heavy camper shell roofs, TV cabinet doors, trailer windows, compartment doors, floor hatches, truck covers, bar shed windows, and heavy custom build lids. They are very versitile, but the key is matching the weight.
One important thing to note: this package does not come with mounting brackets.
Euplokeer Qty (2) Heavy Duty C16-08055 20in Gas Strut Shock Spring – 120lb/534N – Pickup Truck Leer are Cap Topper Bed Tonneau Cover Part 78327-120, RV Bed Lift for Camper RV Bed Storage Queen Size
The Euplokeer Qty (2) Heavy Duty C16-08055 20in Gas Strut Shock Spring – 120lb/534N is a practical solution for lifting and holding heavy lids. You get two gas struts in this package, each with a 120-pound force rating. They are designed for a variety of uses, from pickup truck toppers and tonneau covers to RV bed storage lifts for queen-size mattresses. The extended length is 19.69 inches, and the compressed length is 12.20 inches. This makes them a true 20-inch gas spring.
If your old struts have an interchange number like 021155, 78327, C1608055, TAG 78327, C16-08055, 78327-120, m34-110, ML34-120, or se200p-120, these are a direct replacement. Just check the part number on your current cylinder before buying. You can also measure the extended length of your existing lift and compare it to the 19.69 inches here. The pound rating is also key—make sure your old unit is around 120lb or 534N.
Installation is fairly simple.
You only need a flat head screwdriver to remove the old clips and snap the new struts in place. Thes struts are not just for vehicles though. If you have a DIY project like a food truck window, a heavy wooden box lid, or a shed window, they work great. For those uses, you will need a pair of 10mm ball stud mounting brackets. You can find those by searching for ASIN B0CQYRYGD2 on Amazon. Without those brackets, the struts won’t have the right hardware to mount on flat surfaces.
st270edi-45 27 Inch 45lb 200N Gas Struts Spring Shocks Lift Supports for Tonneau Cover Shell Pickup Bed Truck Undercover Top Topper Replacement Parts, ST270P45EZ10, st270edi2-45, Set of 2 by AUCLIDIS
The AUCLIDIS st270edi-45 27 Inch 45lb 200N Gas Struts Spring Shocks Lift Supports are built as a direct replacement for your truck tonneau cover. These are for shell pickup bed trucks, undercover tops, and toppers. They come as a set of two.
This gas strut is a specific replacement part. You need to check the original oem number on your old strut before buying.
The part numbers that match this model include st270edi2-45, 190725, IH1214GS, ih1212gs, ML2645, ML26-45, ML-26-45, and many others. Look for a number like that on the cylinder of your current strut. It is the best way to make sure you get the correct fit.
The specs are straight forward. The extended length is 27.00 inches. This is measured from the center of one ball socket to the other. The compressed length is 15.20 inches, same measurement method.
The force rating is 45 pounds, or 200 Newtons. Both the shaft connection and the body connection use a nylon ball socket that is 10mm. This is a standard size for many tonneau covers.
In the box you get two gas struts. You also get an installation guide. The process is usually simple, but the guide helps if you get stuck. The struts are ment to be a direct swap for your old, worn out ones.
Dukuge Undercover Gas Spring ST270EDI-45 Replacement Strut 27 inch 45lb, Tonneau Cover Shocks Lift Support 27in, Replace OEM# ST270EDI2-45, 190725, ST270P45EZ10, Set of 2
The Dukuge Undercover Gas Spring ST270EDI-45 Replacement Strut is a direct fit for your tonneau cover needs. It replaces OEM part numbers like 190725, ST270P45EZ10, and ST270EDI-45, among others. This set comes with two struts, each 27 inches long with a 45-pound force rating.
If your truck bed cover is sagging or hard to lift, these struts are designed to solve that problem.
These gas springs are built for common uses like tonneau covers, truck bed covers, boat engine covers, and pickup bed covers. But you need to double check your part number and dimensions before ordering. The extension length from hole to hole is 26.97 inches, and the compressed length is 15.17 inches. The force is 45 pounds, which works well for lids weighing between 36 and 50 pounds.
The ball socket hole diameter is 10 millimeters, and the gas strut thread diameter is 8 millimeters. Make sure these match your existing setup to avoid any issues.
Installation is super simple and takes about three minutes. You just pop off the old strut with a screwdriver and bolt on the new one. No special tools or complicated steps. The package includes two 27-inch, 45-pound gas struts, four ball studs, four nuts, and a guidebook to walk you through it.
Dukuge 713119 Gas Struts 26 inch 80lb Snugtop & Tonneau Cover Replacement Part, Truck Bed Cover Shocks Springs Lift Support for Teardrop Trailer, C1624797 Replacement Lift Strut Part, Set of 2
The Dukuge 713119 Gas Struts 26 inch 80lb Snugtop & Tonneau Cover Replacement Part is a direct replacement for your truck bed cover or teardrop trailer lid. This set of two struts is designed to fit models like 4567, AVMSE1024M80B1, C1624797, and others. If you have a tonneau cover, RV bed undercover, or basement lid, these struts are a solid choice.
You can expect a smooth install. It takes about three minutes. Just pop off the old strut with a screwdriver and bolt on the new one.
The package includes two 26-inch 80-pound gas struts, four ball studs, four nuts, and a guidebook. If you need extra mounting brackets, you will need to buy the bundle.
The key specs are straightfoward. The extension length from hole to hole is 26.50 inches. The compression length is 15.48 inches. Each strut has a force of 80 pounds, or 356 Newtons, which works well for lids weighing between 64 and 88 pounds.
The ball socket hole diameter is 10mm, and the gas strut thread diameter is 8mm. Always double-check your part number and dimensions to avoid any hassle.
These struts are practical for everyday use. They keep your truck bed cover or trailer lid propped open securely. No more worrying about the lid slamming down or hitting your head.
Dukuge C16-08054 Gas Struts 20 inch 100lb, 6939S10 Gas Shocks Springs Lift Support for RV Bed Storage Tonneau Cover Tanning Bed, C1608054 ml34-100 6939 Replacement Lift Struts, Set of 2
The Dukuge C16-08054 gas struts are a 20 inch, 100lb set of lift supports that replace a handful of common models. They come as a set of two. If you have a broken or weak strut on your RV bed, storage hatch, or tonneau cover, these might be the fix you need.
Before you buy, check your old part number. This set works as a direct replacement for numbers like C1608054, C16-08054, ML34-100, 6939, 6939S10, lgp8-200-100, and others.
You want to make sure the numbers match up so you don’t end up with the wrong peice.
These struts are made for lids that weigh between 80 and 110 pounds. That covers a lot of common uses: RV bed platforms, storage compartment doors, box floor hatches, tonneau covers, heavy-duty toolboxes, shed windows, and DIY projects. The force rating is 100 pounds, or 445 Newtons. It’s a good middle ground for most medium to heavy lids.
The dimensions are straight forward.
When fully extended from hole to hole, the strut measures 19.69 inches. When compressed, it measures 11.82 inches. The connector hole diameter is 10mm. The gas strut thread and the ball stud both have an 8mm diameter. Double check these numbers against your current setup to be sure everything lines up.
One big plus is safety. A failing strut can let a heavy lid slam down on you. These struts hold the lid up firm, so you wont have to worry about hitting your head or getting pinched.
17 Inch 150Lbs 668N Gas Struts for Heavy Lid RV Bed Trailer Door Tool Box Floor Hatch Camper Underbed Storage Truck Tonneau Cover, 17" DIY Gas Lift Shocks Kit with L Mount Brackets, 2 Pcs by IAQWE
The IAQWE 17 Inch 150Lbs 668N Gas Struts for Heavy Lid RV Bed Trailer Door Tool Box Floor Hatch Camper Underbed Storage Truck Tonneau Cover is a solid choice if you need a reliable lift system for heavy lids. These 2-piece gas lift shocks kit comes with L mount brackets and everything you need for a simple setup.
Let talk about installation first. You don’t need any tools to get these struts mounted, which is a huge plus. The kit includes an upgraded illustrated manual and DIY plans.
If you hit a snag, the online support team is there to help—they resolve 100% of installation or usage issues. Plus, you get an 18-month warranty, so you can shop with total confidence. Its a pretty easy job for anyone, even if you are not a pro.
These struts are built to handle some serious weight. They have a 150 lbs (668N) force rating and work best for lids that weigh between 95 and 210 lbs. The extended length is 17 inches, and when compressed, it shrinks down to 10.31 inches.
They fit lids from 20 to 34 inches long. For lids that are 20 to 25.5 inches, you want an opening angle over 60 degrees. For longer lids, between 25.5 and 34 inches, keep the opening angle under 60 degrees. A diagram in the box helps you pick the right pressure easily.
You can use these gas struts in a ton of different places.
C16-08316 20 Inch 40Lb/178N Gas Strut Spring Shock Lift Support for Motorhome RV Door Bed Storage TV Cabinet Camper Shell Rear Window Boat Hatch Tonneau Cover Toolbox Lid, C1608316, 2 PCS
The C16-08316 20 Inch 40Lb/178N Gas Strut Spring Shock Lift Support is a straightforward replacement part for your RV, camper, or boat. It comes as a pair of two struts. This product is designed to hold up lids, doors, and hatches so you don’t have to prop them open yourself. The main thing you need to focus on is the weight of your lid and the space you have for installation.
Each strut has 40 pounds of force. But you should think about the total weight of your door or lid.
The set of two struts works best when the lid weights between 32 and 44 pounds. If your lid is lighter, the struts might push it up too fast. If it’s heavier, they might not hold it open at all. Its a pretty specific range, so double check your measurement before you buy.
The dimensions are important here. The extended length from the center of one mounting hole to the other is 19.7 inches. The compressed length is 11.8 inches.
That means the strut gets about 8 inches shorter when you push the door closed. You need to make sure you have enough room for it to compress fully. These struts are strong and cannot be compressed by hand. You will need to mount them and let the weight of the door do the work.
This gas spring is used on a lot of different things. You see them on RV doors, motorhome bay doors, camper shell rear windows, truck caps, and shed windows.
ARANA ST270EDI2-45 27 inch 45lbs/200N Gas Strut, spd-gs-6105 27" Gas Shock Support for Fiberglass Tonneau Cover Pickup Truck Bed Topper Window Undercover Replacement Parts, ih1214gs 190725, 2Pcs
The ARANA ST270EDI2-45 27 inch 45lbs/200N Gas Strut is a straight replacement part designed to get your truck’s bed cover or topper working smoothly again. This set of two gas shocks is built to match several original equipment numbers, including 190725, IH1214GS, ML2645, and ST270EDI45. If your old struts are worn out or not holding the weight anymore, these are the correct fit.
You can use these struts for a bunch of different things.
They work as replacement parts for undercover bed covers, pickup truck tonneau covers, undercover tops, and truck bed covers. They also fit aluminum tilt trailers and boat engine covers. So if you need support for a window or a hatch on your topper, this is a solid option. The good news is you do not need any special tools to put them in.
Let’s talk about the specs. The extended length from center to center is 26.97 inches, or 685 millimeters.
The compressed length is 15.17 inches, which is 385 millimeters. Each strut pushes with 45 pounds of force, or 200 Newtons. That is enough to hold most fiberglass tonneau covers and topper windows open without any trouble. In the package you get two shocks, four ball studs, and an installation guide. If anything is missing, you can message ARANA and they will send a new package.
Installation is really quick. You just need a flat screwdriver and about five minutes.
Shocks For Tonneau Cover Buying Guide
Finding the right shocks for tonneau cover ensures smooth operation and secure cargo. You’ve probably wrestled with a cover that slams shut on it’s own or one that needs both hands just to lift. That’s annoying, right? A good gas shock changes everything. But not every shock fits every truck bed. Before you buy, you need to match the shock to your cover’s weight and design. Let’s walk through the key factors.
Lift Strength and Weight Rating
Your cover is heavier than you think. Fiberglass or hard folding covers need more support than soft roll-ups. If the shock is too weak, the cover will sag or drop unexpectedly. Too strong, and you’ll fight to close it. Look for the pound-force rating on the shock. For most hard covers, 15 to 25 pounds per shock is a safe bet. Measure your cover’s weight first. A simple bathroom scale works fine.
Extended and Compressed Length
Length matters more than you’d guess. Too long and the shock won’t fit when closed. Too short and the cover won’t open fully. Grab a tape measure. Note the distance between mounting points when the cover is closed and when it’s open. Then pick a shock with an extended length that matches your open position and a compressed length that fits the closed one. Many brands list these numbers clearly.
Mounting Hardware and End Fittings
Not all shocks use the same connectors. Ball studs are common, but you might find eyelets or flat brackets instead. Check what your cover currently uses. If you buy the wrong end fitting, you’ll need adapters or extra tools. Some kits include universal mounts. Others don’t. Read the product description carefully so you don’t end up with parts that don’t line up.
Gas vs. Hydraulic Dampening
Gas shocks offer smooth, consistent lift in most weather conditons. Hydraulic ones can feel sluggish when it’s cold. For a tonneau cover, gas is usually the better choice. You get reliable action whether it’s summer heat or winter frost. That means less strain on your arms and a cover that stays where you put it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shocks For Tonneau Cover
Do I really need shocks for my tonneau cover?
Yes, if your cover is heavy. Shocks make lifting and closing much easier. They also prevent the cover from slamming shut. This protects your cargo and the cover itself.
How do I know what shocks fit my truck?
Check your tonneau cover brand and model. Measure the cover’s length and weight. Most shock kits are made for specific trucks and covers. Look for a kit that matches your truck’s bed size.
Can I install shocks myself?
Yes, it’s usually simple. You need a few basic tools. Most kits come with instructions. The install takes about 30 minutes. Just follow the steps and you’ll be fine.
What if my cover is too heavy for standard shocks?
Look for heavy-duty shocks. They provide more lifting force. Measure your cover’s weight first. Many brands offer different strength levels. Pick the one that matches your needs.
Will shocks work with a soft, folding, or retractable cover?
It depends on the design. Soft covers usually don’t need shocks. Folding and retractable covers often do. Check your cover’s manual. Some covers have built-in gas springs already.
How long do tonneau cover shocks last?
They last several years. Extreme heat or cold can wear them out faster. You might notice them getting weak over time. Replace them when lifting becomes hard again.
Are all shocks universal?
No, thay are not. Shocks are made for specific cover types and trucks. Universal kits exist, but they may not fit perfectly. It’s safer to get a kit made for your model.
Can I adjust the tension on my shocks?
Most shocks are not adjustable. They come with a fixed gas pressure. You can choose a stronger or weaker set. Some kits let you change the mounting position for different leverage.
What if my shocks make noise?
Tighten all bolts first. Loose parts can cause rattles. Check the mounting brackets. If noise contiues, the shock might be defective. Contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Do shocks affect the cover’s warranty?
Using compatible shocks should not void the warranty. But always check with the cover maker. Installing wrong parts might cause issues. Stick to recommended products to stay safe.
The Final Call
You want your truck bed cover to work like it should every single time. These shocks make that happen. No more struggling with a heavy cover or worrying about it slamming down on your fingers. The gas pressure does all teh hard work for you. Installation is simple, and the durabilty means you won’t have to think about them again for years. That peace of mind is worth it when you’re loading gear or just locking up for the night. Your truck is a workhorse, so give it parts that keep up with your day.
Pick the right set for your cover and you’ll wonder why you didn’t upgrade sooner. With the right shocks for tonneau cover, every open and close feels smooth and controlled. That’s the kind of simple upgrade that makes your whole truck experience better.