Lift-o-Mat part numbers are a crucial aspect of the automotive industry, particularly in relation to gas springs and dampers. These part numbers play a vital role in identifying and sourcing the correct components for various applications. Understanding how to interpret and utilize lift-o-mat part numbers is essential for technicians, engineers, and enthusiasts working with gas springs.
Before diving into the details of lift-o-mat part numbers, it is important to grasp the basics of gas springs. Gas springs, also known as gas struts or lift supports, are hydraulic devices that use compressed nitrogen gas for providing controlled and smooth motion in various applications. These applications can include automotive hoods, trunks, tailgates, industrial machinery, furniture, and medical equipment.
Lift-o-mat is a well-known brand that manufactures gas springs and dampers for numerous industries. They offer a wide range of products tailored to specific requirements and specifications. Each lift-o-mat part number corresponds to a particular gas spring or damper, incorporating specific characteristics such as stroke length, force rating, mounting options, and end fittings.
Interpreting lift-o-mat part numbers requires an understanding of the naming convention employed by the manufacturer. The part numbers typically consist of a series of alphanumeric characters that convey essential information about the gas spring. Let’s break down a typical lift-o-mat part number to understand its components:
1. Series Identifier: The part number begins with a series identifier that signifies the specific product line or family. This can be a letter or letter combination assigned by the manufacturer to differentiate between various gas spring models.
2. Stroke Length: The stroke length indicates the distance over which the gas spring will extend or compress. It is usually denoted numerically and refers to the total movement of the piston rod.
3. Force Rating: The force rating indicates the amount of force or load-bearing capacity of the gas spring. It is crucial to ensure that the force rating matches the application requirements to achieve optimal performance.
4. Fitting Type: The fitting type signifies the end fittings or mounting options available for the gas spring. This can include ball socket ends, clevis ends, angle brackets, or customized fittings, depending on the specific application.
5. Additional Features: Some lift-o-mat part numbers may include additional features or specifications, such as special coatings for corrosion resistance, extended life cycles, or specific industry standards compliance.
In addition to these components, lift-o-mat part numbers can also indicate the manufacturer’s specific product codes or item numbers. These codes may be internal identifiers for easy referencing within their catalog or inventory management systems.
When sourcing lift-o-mat gas springs, it is vital to have accurate part numbers to ensure a proper match with the required specifications. This can be achieved through various means, including referring to the manufacturer’s catalog or website, consulting with authorized dealers or distributors, or utilizing online databases and parts lookup tools.
Understanding lift-o-mat part numbers is also beneficial when replacing or upgrading gas springs. By referring to the original part number, one can easily identify alternative options or updated versions that may better suit specific needs or provide enhanced performance.
It’s worth noting that lift-o-mat part numbers may vary from one supplier to another, especially when dealing with aftermarket or cross-referenced parts. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the correct part number with the manufacturer or a trusted source to ensure compatibility and performance.
In conclusion, lift-o-mat part numbers are crucial in the automotive industry as they play a vital role in identifying and sourcing the correct gas springs and dampers. Understanding the naming convention and components of these part numbers allows technicians, engineers, and enthusiasts to locate the right components for their specific requirements. Whether it is for initial installation or replacement, accurate part numbers are essential for achieving optimal performance and functionality with lift-o-mat gas springs.