Attwood Marine Ni-Slide Series Gas Spring, 15 in Extended, 9.5 in Compressed, 5.5 in Stroke, 10 mm Socket

Overview

The Attwood Marine Ni-Slide Series Gas Spring is a replacement hatch support for boat hatches, lids, storage compartments, engine covers, and other lift-assisted panels that use a compact gas spring. This version of the Ni-Slide range has a 15.00 in extended length, 9.50 in compressed length, and 5.50 in stroke, with a 10 mm socket end fitting for ball-stud style mounting brackets.

The 6 mm rod by 15 mm cylinder size suits lighter to standard hatch support applications where controlled lift assistance is needed without oversizing the spring. The Ni-Slide rod coating adds corrosion resistance for marine use, including saltwater areas, so it is a practical match for deck lockers, cockpit storage, and other exposed locations.

Key features

• 15.00 in extended length, 9.50 in compressed length, and 5.50 in stroke for matching common hatch support layouts.
• 10 mm socket end fitting works with ball-stud style gas spring mounting brackets.
• 6 mm rod by 15 mm cylinder size fits lighter to standard support applications on boats.
• Ni-Slide rod coating helps resist corrosion in marine environments, including saltwater areas.
• Available in 20 lb and 60 lb output force versions for different hatch or lid weights.

Variants

This gas spring is offered in two output-force configurations while keeping the same overall length, compressed length, stroke, rod and cylinder size, and 10 mm socket end fitting.

The force rating is the key difference between the two versions. Matching the force to the hatch or lid is important because too little force may not hold the panel open, while too much force can make the panel harder to close or put extra load on the mounting points.

• SL13-20-5, Output Force 20 lb. This lower-force version is suited to lighter hatches, small storage lids, and panels that need modest lift assistance.
• SL13-60-5, Output Force 60 lb. This higher-force version is suited to heavier lids or covers that need stronger support across the same 15.00 in extended length.

Installation and fit

Before replacing an existing gas spring, match the extended length, compressed length, stroke, end fitting size, and output force to the original part or to the hatch manufacturer’s requirements. The 10 mm socket end fitting connects to compatible ball-stud brackets, so the bracket size and mounting angle should be checked before installation.

Gas springs should be mounted so the hatch opens smoothly without binding through the full stroke. On boats, it is also worth checking that the spring clears nearby hinges, wiring, cushions, deck hardware, and engine-room components when the lid is fully open and fully closed.

Use cases on board

This Ni-Slide gas spring is a good match for boat owners replacing worn hatch supports on cockpit lockers, deck hatches, storage lids, livewell covers, and access panels where the same dimensions and socket style are required. It is especially useful when the existing spring no longer holds the lid open or when a hatch needs more controlled movement during regular use.

Maintenance and care

Keep the rod clean and free of heavy salt buildup, and rinse exposed installations with fresh water during normal boat washdowns. Do not puncture, heat, or discard oil-filled gas springs casually, and replace the spring if the rod is bent, the sockets are worn, or the hatch no longer stays safely supported.