Our verdict
Taylor Made hatch lift supports deliver dependable, marine-grade performance for boat owners needing reliable hatch, door, or storage lid support. Built specifically to resist saltwater corrosion and UV degradation, they outperform generic struts in longevity and smooth operation. While pricier and requiring correct sizing, they're a solid investment for safety and convenience on the water.
Why it made the list
- Saltwater corrosion resistant
- Smooth controlled hatch lift
- Multiple sizes available
Pros & cons
What we like
- Holds hatches, doors, and lids securely open in rough conditions
- Withstands harsh marine environment without rusting or seizing
- Simple retrofit for OEM or custom hatch applications
- Smooth, controlled extension reduces slamming and strain on hinges
- Available in various lengths and lift ratings for different boats
- Backed by a reputable marine hardware brand
Watch out for
- Higher cost than generic automotive-style gas struts
- Requires accurate measurement to select correct force rating
- Mounting brackets sold separately on some kits
- Over time, seals can wear faster in extreme heat exposure
Spec sheet
| Material | Stainless steel shaft, nylon end fittings |
|---|---|
| Extended Length Range | 10 in to 20 in |
| Force Rating Options | 30 lb to 90 lb |
| Mounting Type | Ball socket, bolt-on bracket |
| Environmental Rating | Marine-grade, UV and saltwater resistant |
Features at a glance
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel shaft and ball sockets
- Marine-grade gas charged cylinder for smooth, consistent lift
- UV-stabilized nylon end fittings resist saltwater and sun damage
- Multiple length and force (lb) options to match hatch size and weight
- Easy bolt-on installation with included mounting hardware
- Sealed design prevents moisture intrusion and fluid leakage
Full review
Taylor Made Hatch Lift Supports are precision-engineered gas springs designed to make boat hatches, storage compartments, and deck lids open smoothly and stay securely in place without manual effort. Built specifically for the marine environment, these struts feature corrosion-resistant housings and seals that stand up to saltwater spray, UV exposure, and constant vibration without losing their gas charge or leaking fluid. Boaters rely on them to replace worn-out or failing lift supports on center console hatches, engine covers, livewells, and storage boxes, restoring the controlled, effortless lift that keeps hands free and fingers safe from sudden drops.
Each support is sized and rated for specific extension lengths and force outputs, so matching the correct part number to the hatch weight and travel distance ensures proper performance and longevity. The stainless steel shafts resist pitting and rust, while the nitrogen-charged cylinders deliver consistent pressure through thousands of open-close cycles, holding hatches firmly open at any angle rather than letting them slam shut or require constant bracing. This reliability matters on a moving boat, where sudden swells or wake can jolt an unsupported hatch, posing both safety risks and the potential for damage to stored gear or electronics underneath.
Installation is straightforward, typically requiring only the ball-stud mounting hardware already present on most hatch designs, making these a popular upgrade or replacement for OEM boat builders and aftermarket installers alike. Taylor Made backs its lift supports with the kind of durability expected from a brand long associated with marine hardware, giving owners confidence that their investment will hold up through seasons of sun, salt, and heavy use. Whether outfitting a new build or restoring function to a tired hatch, these lift supports offer a dependable, marine-grade solution that keeps storage compartments accessible, secure, and easy to manage on the water.
Ready to rig it?
Taylor Made Hatch Lift Supports
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