Overview

The Attwood Marine SL3-60-5 is a 60 lb gas spring hatch support with a 20 inch extended length, 12 inch compressed length, and an 8 inch stroke. It is part of the Ni-Slide aftermarket range and uses a 10 mm diameter blade end fitting.

This type of support is used to help open and hold a hatch, locker lid, or access panel while keeping movement controlled when closing. On a boat, the key fit points are the open length, closed length, output force, and end fitting style, so this part makes sense when those measurements match the spring already on the vessel.

The black-finish spring is suited to routine deck and compartment use where you need a direct replacement rather than a change in hatch geometry. It is also useful when the existing brackets are still serviceable and only the spring itself needs to be replaced.

Key features

• 20 inch extended length, 12 inch compressed length, and 8 inch stroke
• 60 lb output force for hatches and lids that require the same support rating
• 10 mm diameter blade end fitting
• Ni-Slide aftermarket gas spring configuration
• Black finish
• Built with biodegradable no hazard to water grade oil
• Passes ASTM B117, Attwood salt spray, and a 30,000 cycle lifecycle test

Compatibility and fit

This support is a good match for boats that already use a gas spring with the same 20 inch by 12 inch geometry and a 60 lb rating. That can include deck hatches, storage lids, livewell lids, and similar access panels, but the actual fit depends on the bracket spacing and leverage of the hatch.

Before ordering, check the spring length with the hatch open and closed, confirm the end style is a 10 mm blade fitting, and verify the force rating on the old spring if it is still readable. A spring with different dimensions or force can change how far the hatch opens and how much effort is needed to close it.

Installation and setup

This part is typically used as a replacement spring in an existing setup. If the boat still has the original mounting points, inspect the brackets, fasteners, and hatch structure for wear or corrosion before installation. Mounting brackets for this aftermarket range are selected separately, so existing hardware should be checked for compatibility before reuse.