Description of the traction gas strut 155176 – 250 N – Stroke 250 mm
The 155176 traction gas strut is a precision-engineered component manufactured by Associated Spring SPEC UK (Barnes Group UK Ltd, Evesham), specifically developed for marine and nautical environments. Unlike conventional compression gas springs, this unit operates in traction (tension), generating a pulling force of 250 N that makes it the ideal solution wherever a controlled, sustained retracting effort is required — such as on flush hatches, retractable panels, sliding doors, or integrated furniture mechanisms aboard sailing and motor yachts.
Built to withstand the rigours of the marine world, the strut is equipped at both ends with EF-BS009X ball sockets: 10 mm ball sockets machined from 316 grade stainless steel, the most corrosion-resistant stainless alloy available for offshore use. The M8 x 1.25 threaded connection ensures a secure, vibration-proof attachment to the host structure, whether that is a fibreglass hull liner, teak joinery panel, or aluminium deck fitting.
With a closed length of 387 mm and a fully extended length of 637 mm, the strut delivers a usable stroke of 250 mm, providing generous travel for larger hatches and access panels. The body carries the standard marine pressure warning label (HAUTE PRESSION – NE PAS OUVRIR/PERCER/CHAUFFER), confirming that this gas spring is a sealed, pressurised unit that must never be drilled, cut open, or subjected to heat. The reference label reads 155176 – 250 N, allowing straightforward identification for maintenance and reordering purposes.
This component is distributed in France by Ressorts SPEC and is available as a spare part for original-fit installations on production vessels as well as for custom refit and new-build projects requiring a reliable traction solution.
Specifications
- Reference: 155176 – Rev. A
- Type: Traction (tension) gas strut
- Force (P1): 250 N
- Stroke (SR): 250 mm
- Closed length (L0): 387 mm (±2 mm)
- Extended length (L1): 637 mm (±2 mm)
- End fittings: EF-BS009X – 316 Stainless Steel ball socket, 10 mm ball, M8 x 1.25 thread, 11.4 mm minimum effective depth (both ends)
- Thread: M8 x 1.25
- Manufacturer: Associated Spring SPEC UK – Barnes Group UK Ltd, Evesham
Installation / Maintenance
Installation:
- Mount both ball sockets onto the corresponding 10 mm ball studs on the host structure, ensuring the studs are correctly aligned with the axis of travel to prevent side-loading.
- The M8 x 1.25 threaded end allows fine adjustment of the engagement depth — ensure the minimum effective depth of 11.4 mm is always respected for each socket.
- Being a traction strut, the unit must be installed so that it is working in tension: the gas spring should be in its extended position when the controlled element (hatch, panel) is in its closed or resting position.
- Fit on a rigid structural element; avoid flexible laminates without backing pads to prevent localised stress concentrations.
Maintenance:
- The ball sockets should be inspected periodically for play or signs of corrosion, particularly after prolonged offshore passages or winter lay-up periods.
- A light application of marine-grade grease or silicone lubricant on the ball joints will extend their service life and maintain smooth articulation.
- The gas strut body is a sealed, pressurised unit: never attempt to open, drill, pierce, or heat it. Disposal must follow local regulations for pressurised components.
- If the strut shows reduced force or fails to hold the mechanism in position, replacement is recommended — gas springs are not field-serviceable.
Our review
✔️ Pros :
- Traction operation — a specialist solution rarely found as a standard catalogue item, ideal for hatches and mechanisms requiring a pulling rather than a pushing force.
- 316 stainless steel ball sockets (EF-BS009X) offer outstanding corrosion resistance, suitable for saltwater and offshore environments.
- Generous 250 mm stroke covers a wide range of nautical applications — from small access hatches to larger structural panels.
- M8 x 1.25 threaded connection is a universal standard, simplifying replacement and integration into existing yacht hardware.
- OEM-grade component from Associated Spring / Barnes Group, a trusted supplier to leading boatbuilders.
❌ Cons :
- Single force rating (250 N) — verify that this matches your application’s load requirement before ordering, as traction springs cannot be adjusted in the field.
- Traction operation requires a specific installation geometry; unsuitable as a direct swap for a conventional compression strut without re-engineering the mounting.
- Being a sealed, pressurised unit, the strut is not serviceable and must be replaced as a complete assembly when force diminishes.
Conclusion
The 155176 traction gas strut is a highly specialised, premium-quality component for yacht builders and refit professionals who need a pulling gas spring with proven marine credentials. Its 316 stainless steel ball sockets, correct force rating, and OEM pedigree make it a direct, reliable replacement for the original-fit part. Before purchasing, confirm that your application genuinely requires a traction (tension) spring rather than a conventional compression unit, and verify that 250 N is the appropriate force for your hatch or panel weight and geometry. If both conditions are met, this strut is an excellent, ready-to-fit choice.
Good to Know
- This is a traction (tension) gas strut — it works by pulling, not pushing. Do not confuse with standard compression gas springs.
- End fittings are EF-BS009X – 10 mm ball sockets in 316 stainless steel, M8 x 1.25 thread. Minimum effective engagement depth: 11.4 mm.
- The body is a sealed, pressurised unit — never drill, pierce, cut or heat the cylinder.
- Label on body reads 155176 – 250 N for easy identification and reordering.
- Distributed in France by Ressorts SPEC — original manufacturer: Associated Spring SPEC UK / Barnes Group UK Ltd.
- For compression gas struts of a similar rod and tube diameter, see our range of marine gas springs available on Nauticspares.
English spoken
On parle Français
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.