Description of the stainless steel ball socket end fitting EFBS002S – Ø10 mm ball – M6 thread
The EFBS002S stainless steel ball socket end fitting is a spare part for gas springs (also called gas struts or gas lifts) made by SPEC / Associated Spring Raymond. It is built for harsh marine environments. It screws onto the M6 thread at the end of a gas spring, on either the rod or the cylinder body, and fits over a 10 mm diameter ball stud. This connection lets the strut pivot freely as a hatch, locker lid or panel opens and closes.
A stainless steel retaining pin passes through the head of the socket and holds it on the ball. To disconnect the gas spring, lift or pull out the pin and slide the socket off. Refitting is just as quick: put the socket over the ball and push the pin back in. You can reach a locker, change a strut or service a hinge in a few moments, while keeping a positive mechanical lock in normal use.
The 18 mm offset between the thread axis and the centre of the ball socket helps position the strut correctly in compact or slightly misaligned installations. It also improves load alignment on the bracket. The EFBS002S works with the stainless steel ball brackets common on pleasure craft and with any other mounting that has a 10 mm ball stud. It fits every gas spring with an M6 threaded end.
The all-metal construction is mechanically stronger than the plastic version. It resists UV radiation, prolonged salt spray exposure, frequent temperature changes and high mechanical loads. It is the recommended choice for cockpit lockers, deck hatches, engine compartment hatches, swim platform lockers and any gas spring fitted outside or in direct sunlight.
The fitting is used by leading builders including Bénéteau, Jeanneau, Dufour and Fountaine Pajot. It is an exact replacement for original RESSORTS SPEC and AS RAYMOND gas strut end fittings, for refit or new installations.
For interior or UV-protected areas, a lighter and more economical alternative is the EFBS004P plastic version. The EFBS002S is sold individually and is also available in kits of 2 or 4 pieces.
Specifications
- Type: Ball socket end fitting with stainless steel retaining pin
- Material: Stainless steel
- Ball diameter: 10 mm
- Thread: M6 female
- Offset: 18 mm from the gas spring axis
- Brand: SPEC / Associated Spring Raymond
- Compatibility: All gas springs with M6 threaded ends
- Recommended use: Exterior, exposed and high-load areas
- Packaging: Sold individually, also available in kits of 2 or 4
- Plastic alternative: EFBS004P (interior / UV-protected areas)
Installation / Maintenance
Installation:
- Before taking off the old fitting, support the hatch or panel so the gas spring is not under load.
- Unscrew the old end fitting, then screw the EFBS002S fully onto the M6 thread of the rod or body.
- Lift the stainless steel retaining pin, push the socket onto the 10 mm ball stud, then push the pin fully back into place.
- Make sure the socket pivots freely on the ball and does not touch the bracket or surrounding structure through the full opening travel.
Maintenance:
- From time to time, check that the retaining pin is fully engaged and that the socket has no play on the ball.
- Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt spray, and apply a light film of silicone grease to the ball stud.
- Replace the retaining pin if it is bent or has lost its spring tension.
Our review
✔️ Pros :
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion, UV and salt spray.
- Stronger than the plastic version under high mechanical loads.
- Stainless steel retaining pin gives a secure lock and quick removal.
- OEM fit with RESSORTS SPEC / AS RAYMOND gas springs.
- Available individually or in kits of 2 or 4.
❌ Cons :
- Heavier and more expensive than the plastic EFBS004P.
- Fits 10 mm ball studs only.
- Not suitable where zero-offset alignment is required.
Conclusion
The EFBS002S is the durable choice for gas springs on deck, in the cockpit or anywhere exposed to sunlight, salt spray or heavy loads. Its stainless steel body and retaining pin give a secure connection that lasts, on 10 mm ball studs with an M6 thread. For cabin furniture and interior lockers, the plastic EFBS004P is a lighter, cheaper option. Before ordering, check the ball diameter (10 mm) and thread (M6) on your existing strut.
Good to Know
- Fits 10 mm ball studs with an M6 thread and an 18 mm offset. Check both dimensions before ordering.
- Recommended for exterior, exposed and high-load installations.
- For interior or UV-protected areas, see the plastic version EFBS004P.
- Sold individually, also available in kits of 2 or 4 pieces.
- See our full range of gas springs and end fittings.
English spoken
On parle Français
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.