1981 Cobra trailer gas struts

On Friday, December 13, 2019 at 5:54:33 AM UTC-7, David Cleveland wrote:
I have a 1981 Cobra trailer designed for a single seat glider. The trailer design is of the type that has the struts located on the outside of the trailer, with an aluminum top. I am looking to replace the gas struts.

I have contacted Wings and Wheels. They have been very helpful, but they do not carry the struts for this design. They also mentioned that Spindelberger/Cobra do not carry the item.

I am looking for two things. My struts were painted in the past, so I am unable to get the read the strength of the strut. I am also looking for a recommendation for replacement or refurbish.

Thanks

David Cleveland
Salt Lake City

Dave I've got the same trailer
When my Lift struts failed they were the 900 version
I replaced them with 1100 from Williams and they work great.
No lifting [ or very very little ] and I can pull it down with no problem to close it.
I think would would be happy with the stronger struts.
Be careful when you change them as you know, that top is heavy and if it were to fall on you it could kill you.
Safe Flying
T

Thanks Nick. That's good to hear. Sounds like 1100N gas struts are the way to go. If W/W has no way to get the struts I'll work on some of the second party manufacturers. I had a good talk with Richard yesterday. He gave me a good steer, as well as a few cautions I hadn't thought about.

Yeah, I've had my struts off before and I've worked on the same kind of trailer for friends. Those tops are surprisingly heavy.

DC

If all else fails McMaster Carr sells some adjustable force gas springs that I have on my trailer (not a Cobra). They might fit.