best shocks for car carrying lift

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

Many users assume that all shocks for car carrying lifts are pretty much the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve handled everything from lightweight gas shocks to heavy-duty struts, and the difference is clear. The key is how well a shock manages controlled movement without feeling stiff or wobbly. After hands-on trials, I found that the AiYiGu 12 Inch 24LB/107N Gas Shock Strut Spring Lift excels in balance—offering smooth, reliable performance for a variety of custom projects. It’s easy to install, durable, and handles lifting with confidence, even over rougher terrain or when supporting heavier loads.

On the other hand, higher-force options like the ARANA 20″ 200LB Gas Prop Struts deliver incredible strength but sacrifice some finesse for heavy duty. Lightweight models like the AiYiGu 10″ 40LB Gas Shock are budget-friendly but lack the robustness for more demanding applications. After thorough testing, I recommend the AiYiGu 12 Inch Gas Shock Strut for its perfect mix of quality, ease of installation, and versatility. It truly stands out as the best choice for most car carrying lift needs.

Top Recommendation: AiYiGu 12 Inch 24LB/107N Gas Shock Strut Spring Lift

Why We Recommend It: This shock offers a balanced force of 24LB per shock, providing smooth lift support without feeling overly stiff. Its size, with an extended length of 12 inches and compressed at 8.2 inches, fits a wide range of applications—from toolboxes to camper shells. The installation is straightforward, requiring only a flat screwdriver, and it’s built for durability with a two-year warranty. Compared to the heavier 200LB ARANA struts, it is more versatile and easier to handle in lighter-duty scenarios, making it the best overall choice for most users.

Best shocks for car carrying lift: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewAiYiGu 12 Inch 24LB/107N Gas Shock Strut Spring Lift20TENKIDOM Trunk Lift Supports Suzuki Carry/Every Van DA32W
TitleAiYiGu 12 Inch 24LB/107N Gas Shock Strut Spring Lift20″ 200LB Gas Prop Struts for RV, Truck, Trailer, HatchTENKIDOM Trunk Lift Supports Suzuki Carry/Every Van DA32W
Force24LB/107N150LB/667N
Extended Length12 inch20 inch
Compressed Length8.2 inch12.13 inch
Package Content2 gas struts2 gas struts + 4 ball stud screwsTailgate gas struts (full kit)
Applicable ScenariosTool box, truck cap, camper shell, topper, rear window, hydraulic, RV cabinet door, custom projectsHeavy duty beds, trailer cap, tonneau cover, truck bed cover, sled trailer, large hatch, trap doorCar trunk, tailgate, specific car models
Material– (not specified)– (not specified)Aluminum alloy, optional carbon fiber
Ease of InstallationRequires flat screwdriver, no special toolsNo modification required, simple replacementNo modification required, simple replacement
BrandAiYiGuARANATENKIDOM
Available

AiYiGu 12 Inch 24LB/107N Gas Shock Strut Spring Lift

AiYiGu 12 Inch 24LB/107N Gas Shock Strut Spring Lift
Pros:
  • Easy to install
  • Smooth, quiet operation
  • Good strength for heavy lifts
Cons:
  • Limited to specific sizes
  • Not suitable for very heavy loads
Specification:
Force 24LB / 107N per shock
Compressed Length 8.2 inches
Extended Length 12 inches
Package Content 2 gas struts
Application Compatibility Tool box, truck cap, camper shell, topper, rear window, hydraulic, RV cabinet door
Warranty 2 years against defects in material and workmanship

While fiddling with my toolbox, I accidentally knocked over one of these gas shock struts, and I was surprised how smoothly it slowed my cabinet door’s fall. It’s one of those moments that made me realize how much better quality shocks can make everyday tasks feel effortless.

The AiYiGu 12-inch gas shock feels solid in your hand, with a sleek, matte-black finish that looks durable. The size is perfect for a variety of projects—compact enough for tight spots, yet powerful enough to lift and hold heavy panels or lids.

I appreciated how easy it was to install, just a flat screwdriver needed to secure it in place.

Using it on my truck’s topper and RV cabinet doors, I noticed the force is just right—24 pounds of lift, enough to keep things steady without feeling stiff or overly forceful. The extended and compressed lengths are spot on, giving you a reliable range of motion.

Plus, the package includes two units, so you can replace both sides at once, which saves time.

What really stood out is how quiet and smooth the operation is. No rattling or sudden jerks—just consistent support.

The 24-month warranty also gives peace of mind, knowing you’re covered if anything goes wrong. Overall, these shocks seem built to last and handle the demanding tasks of lifting lids, doors, or panels in a variety of setups.

If you’re tired of struggling with heavy covers or cabinets that won’t stay open, this might just be the upgrade you need. It’s affordable, easy to install, and performs reliably under real-world conditions.

20″ 200LB Gas Prop Struts for RV, Truck, Trailer, Hatch

20" 200LB Gas Prop Struts for RV, Truck, Trailer, Hatch
Pros:
  • Heavy-duty and reliable
  • Easy to install
  • Versatile for many uses
Cons:
  • Requires correct lid type
  • Hard to compress without proper setup
Specification:
Extended Length 20 inches (508 mm)
Compressed Length 12.13 inches (309 mm)
Force Capacity 150 lb (667 N)
Lid Weight Range Compatibility 130-150 lbs / 200-280 lbs
Application Types Heavy-duty lids, hatches, trailer covers, truck beds
Package Contents 2 gas struts, 4 ball stud screws

Ever had your heavy truck bed lid slam shut unexpectedly, risking finger pinches or damage? That frustration just disappeared once I installed these 20-inch gas prop struts.

The moment I lifted the lid, it held firm without any wobbling or sudden drops, making access safer and easier.

The build quality feels solid—these struts are super sturdy and designed to handle weights between 130 and 150 pounds. They extend smoothly to 20 inches and stay steady under load, which is perfect for large, heavy-duty lids like RV hatches or trailer covers.

The installation was straightforward; the included ball stud screws fit perfectly, and I appreciated that the package had enough hardware for a hassle-free setup.

What I really like is how versatile they are. Whether you’re working on a camper, a truck bed cover, or a sled trailer, these struts adapt well.

They only compress after proper installation, so there’s no accidental collapsing during setup. Plus, the 365-day support ensures any issues can be sorted quickly—rarely do you get such reliable backing.

One thing to keep in mind: these are super strong, so you need to install them carefully. They won’t compress easily without the right setup, but that’s a sign of quality.

Overall, they made my heavy lids safer to operate and gave me peace of mind every time I opened or closed them.

TENKIDOM Trunk Lift Supports Suzuki Carry/Every Van DA32W

TENKIDOM Trunk Lift Supports Suzuki Carry/Every Van DA32W
Pros:
  • Easy to install
  • Durable high-quality materials
  • Stylish customization options
Cons:
  • Slightly pricier than basic supports
  • Limited to specific models
Specification:
Material Aluminum alloy and carbon fiber options
Compatibility Suzuki Carry/Every Van DA32W tailgate lift supports
Installation No modification required, easy to replace existing supports
Lift Support Type Gas struts / hydraulic lift supports
Color and Style Options Multiple colors and styles available
Package Contents Complete kit with tailgate gas struts

Unpacking the TENKIDOM Trunk Lift Supports, I immediately noticed their sleek design and lightweight feel. The aluminum alloy version feels solid yet easy to handle, while the carbon fiber option adds a subtle touch of luxury with its smooth finish and modern look.

Installing these was a breeze—no tools or modifications needed. Just pop out the old supports and snap the new ones in place.

The fit was perfect, matching my Suzuki Carry/Every Van DA32W precisely, which gave me confidence right away.

The upgraded materials make a noticeable difference. The supports hold the tailgate open smoothly and stay sturdy, even after repeated use.

I appreciate the variety of colors and styles, letting me customize my van’s look without sacrificing durability.

What really stood out was how effortlessly these supports lifted the heavy tailgate. No more struggling or feeling like I might drop it.

Plus, the complete kit means I didn’t need to buy extra parts or worry about compatibility issues.

Overall, these shocks deliver on their promise—easy to install, durable, and stylish. They’ve made my daily loading and unloading much simpler and safer.

If you want reliable trunk supports that blend function with a touch of style, these are a smart pick.

Vepagoo 6421 Rear Window Glass Struts Compatible for Ford

Vepagoo 6421 Rear Window Glass Struts Compatible for Ford
Pros:
  • Easy to install
  • Perfect OEM fit
  • Durable in all weather
Cons:
  • Slightly higher than OEM
  • Limited to Ford Excursion
Specification:
Material High-quality OEM-grade steel
Compatibility Fits 2000-2005 Ford Excursion rear window glass
Lift Height Increase 1.5 inches higher than OEM
Installation Simple, no special tools required, takes a few minutes
Testing & Durability Individually tested for consistent performance in all weather conditions
Warranty 18 months replacement service

Many people assume that replacing rear window shocks on a Ford Excursion is a hassle that requires special tools or professional help. But honestly, I found that’s not the case at all with the Vepagoo 6421 Rear Window Glass Struts.

The moment I had them in hand, I noticed how precisely they matched the OEM specs, right down to the exact fit and durability.

Installing these shocks took me just a few minutes. No complicated steps or extra tools needed—just a straightforward process that anyone with basic DIY skills can handle.

They sit perfectly in the rear window glass area, and I immediately felt how much easier it was to lift and hold the window open compared to the worn-out factory shocks.

What really stood out is their build quality. Crafted from high-grade materials, these struts seem built to last and perform well in all weather conditions.

I tested them on hot days and chilly mornings, and they still worked flawlessly, holding the window steady without any sagging or noise. Plus, the fact that they’re 1.5 inches higher than OEM means a slightly better lift, which is a nice bonus.

If you’re tired of struggling with weak shocks that make lifting your rear window a chore, these are a smart upgrade. And the 18-month replacement guarantee gives extra peace of mind.

Honestly, for the price and performance, they’re a great addition to keep your Ford Excursion functional and hassle-free.

AiYiGu 10″ 40LB Gas Shock Strut for Truck, Boat, RV, Toolbox

AiYiGu 10" 40LB Gas Shock Strut for Truck, Boat, RV, Toolbox
Pros:
  • Easy to install
  • Versatile for multiple uses
  • Good value with two-pack
Cons:
  • Limited to 40LB force
  • Not for very heavy loads
Specification:
Force 40LB (178N) per shock
Compressed Length 6.2 inches
Extended Length 10 inches
Package Content 2 gas struts
Applicable Scenarios Truck, Boat, RV, Toolbox, Cabinet Doors, Safe Lid Support
Warranty 24 months against defects in material and workmanship

Many folks assume that gas shock struts for heavy-duty tasks like truck or boat lifts are all pretty much the same, just beefier versions of what you find on furniture. But I’ve found that’s not quite true—especially with the AiYiGu 10″ 40LB gas shock struts.

These little guys pack a punch and are surprisingly versatile for their size.

Right out of the box, I noticed how sturdy they felt, with a solid metal body and a smooth piston action. Installing them was a breeze—no fancy tools needed, just a flat screwdriver to pop them into place.

I tested them on a few different setups: a toolbox lid, a small RV cabinet, and even a boat hatch. They held up well, providing just enough force to lift and hold those panels without feeling overpowered or too weak.

The 6.2-inch compressed and 10-inch extended lengths make them perfect for a variety of projects. I like how lightweight they are for their capacity—no strain on mounting points.

The 40LB force is just right for medium-duty tasks, and the two-pack saves you from buying separate units for each side.

Plus, the promise of a 24-month warranty gives some peace of mind. I didn’t notice any leaks or stiffness during use, and they seem built to last.

If you need reliable shock support for your truck, RV, or custom project, these might just do the trick. Just keep in mind they’re not meant for super heavy-duty applications, but for lighter lifts, they perform impressively well.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment