Barletta Pontoon Boat Gas Spring Strut Replacement | Restore Hatch Lift, Protect Your Investment, and Enjoy Effortless Access
There’s nothing quite like easing a Barletta pontoon onto the water early in the morning, with the lake calm and full of possibility.
You reach for the under-seat storage hatch to grab a cushion or a dry bag, and the lid feels heavy. It droops. It won’t stay up on its own. That little gas spring strut that used to lift the hatch with one finger has given up.
It’s a small part. But on a boat like a Barletta pontoon boat, small parts matter. That hatch is part of the onboard storage solutions that make your days on the water easier. When it stops working, you notice.
Here’s the good news: replacing a broken gas spring strut is one of the simplest DIY fixes in boat ownership. You don’t need a mechanic. You don’t need special tools. You just need the right part and about fifteen minutes.
TL;DR
Gas spring struts on Barletta under-seat storage hatches wear out after a few seasons and lose their lifting force. You can replace them yourself with a stainless-steel marine-grade strut from West Marine or Taylor Made, usually for under $40. Match the compressed length, extended length, and force rating to your original strut. The job takes minutes and restores the convenience that makes your Barletta feel like a luxury pontoon.
Key Takeaways
- Gas struts typically last about five years on boats before losing their “spring”
- Stainless steel (316-grade) is the right material for saltwater and freshwater marine environments
- Match three specs when buying a replacement: compressed length, extended length, and force rating (in pounds)
- Most marine gas struts cost between $30 and $55 from reputable suppliers
- A worn strut isn’t just annoying—it can let a hatch slam down on fingers or gear
- Always wear life jackets and follow local boating laws when operating any vessel
Understanding Barletta Pontoon Design and Comfort: Stability Meets Luxury
Barletta didn’t become one of the fastest-growing names in pontoon boating by accident. Founded in 2017, the company built its reputation on reinforced aluminum construction, thoughtful layouts, and a ride quality that rivals boats costing far more .
The brand’s rise has been quick. By 2022, Barletta was challenging for a top-five market share position in the United States . Winnebago Industries acquired the company in 2021, and a massive production expansion followed .
But what does any of that have to do with a tiny gas strut under a seat?
Everything. Because the details are what separate a good pontoon from a great one. Barletta’s premium marine vinyl seating and onboard storage solutions are designed to make your time on the water feel effortless. When a hatch strut fails, that effortless feeling disappears.
Living with the Seating Layout and Deck Space on a Barletta Pontoon
Step onto a Barletta and you notice the space first. The deck layouts are open, social, and built for real families. The Cabrio, for example, offers seating for up to twelve passengers with lounge configurations that convert in seconds .
Under those seats? Storage. Lots of it. Barletta uses the space beneath benches and lounges for everything from life jackets to coolers to tow ropes.
Here’s a tip that few new boat owners know: those under-seat hatches are designed to be opened with one hand while you’re holding something in the other. The gas strut makes that possible.
When the strut works, you barely think about it. When it doesn’t, every trip to the lake includes a small wrestling match with a hatch lid.
Does your under-seat storage still open with the easy lift it did on day one?
The Hidden Role of Barletta’s Construction Quality
Barletta boats are built with full-length crossmembers and a V.I.P. Technology (Vibration Isolation Package) that reduces rattles and noise on the water . The company’s attention to structural detail is one reason its boats hold up well over time.
But even the best-built boats have wear items. Gas struts are one of them.
Taylor Made, a well-known marine supplier, notes that gas cylinders on new boats typically last about five years before losing their spring . After that, the rod no longer holds the hatch open on its own.
That’s not a Barletta problem. That’s a physics problem. Gas escapes. Seals age. The strut does its job for years and then asks to be replaced.
Did you know that gas struts are considered a normal wear item, just like impellers or zinc anodes?
Why Under-Seat Hatch Struts Matter More Than You Think
Let’s be honest. A gas strut is not a glamorous part. It doesn’t make the boat faster. It doesn’t improve the stereo. Nobody posts photos of their hatch struts on social media.
But think about how often you open those hatches in a single day on the water.
Morning: you grab sunscreen from under the port bench. Midday: you pull out a dry bag for a swim. Afternoon: you stow away a wet towel. Evening: you dig out the dock lines before heading back.
Each of those moments depends on a tiny pressurized cylinder doing its job.
When the strut fails, the hatch becomes a two-hand job. You lift with one hand and hold it up with the other. If you’re carrying something, you’re stuck. And on a rocking boat, a heavy lid that won’t stay up is more than an inconvenience. It’s a hazard.
Have you ever had a hatch lid drop on your fingers while you were balancing on a moving deck?
The Timeline: How Barletta Became a Pontoon Powerhouse
Barletta’s story is short but remarkable. Understanding the brand’s trajectory helps explain why owners care about keeping these boats in top shape.
The short version: Barletta went from a startup in 2017 to a major player in luxury pontoon boats in less than a decade. The company’s lineup now includes the Aria, Cabrio, Corsa, Lusso, and Reserve series, each targeting a different kind of boater .
Through it all, the focus has stayed on the same things: marine seating comfort, smart storage, and a ride that feels smooth even on busy weekends.
What does a brand’s growth curve tell you about how well it builds its boats?
Choosing the Right Replacement Gas Strut for Your Barletta
Here’s where most owners get stuck. They know the strut is bad. They don’t know what to buy.
The good news is that marine gas struts are fairly standardized. You don’t need a Barletta-specific part number. You need to match three measurements.
The Three Specs That Matter
Compressed length. Measure your old strut when it’s fully pushed in. This is the length it needs to be when the hatch is closed.
Extended length. Measure the strut when it’s fully extended. This is the length it reaches when the hatch is open.
Force rating. This is measured in pounds (often written as “Lbs” on the product page). It tells you how much lifting force the strut provides. Taylor Made, for example, sells a 90-pound strut designed for dock boxes and hatches .
If you can’t find markings on your old strut, bring it to a marine supply store. Most counter staff can match it in minutes.
Material Matters
You want stainless steel. Specifically, 316-grade stainless is ideal for marine use . Regular steel will rust. Even coated steel will eventually fail in a wet environment.
Attwood, another trusted marine brand, makes gas springs that pass salt spray tests and cycle testing, and they use biodegradable oil that won’t harm the water if a seal ever fails .
Are you still running the original struts that came with your boat?
Comparison Table: Marine Gas Strut Options for Barletta Hatches
| Product Type | Best For | Installation Difficulty | Key Material | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taylor Made Stainless Gas Strut (12″–20″, 90 lb) | Heavy under-seat hatches and dock boxes | Easy (snap-on 10mm ball fittings) | 316 stainless steel | ~$40–$55 |
| Taylor Made Replacement Gas Strut (16.1″–26.3″, 30 lb) | Lighter hatch lids and storage compartments | Easy (10mm ball stud) | Coated steel rod | ~$38 |
| Attwood OEM Gas Spring (SL4 series) | OEM replacement and general marine use | Easy (blade fitting) | Corrosion-resistant steel | ~$38 |
| Sierra GS62660 Gas Spring (8.5″–12″, 20 lb) | Small hatches and lightweight lids | Easy | Marine-grade steel | ~$25–$35 |
Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer. Always confirm fitment before ordering.
Real-World Impact: Comfort vs. Performance on a Barletta
Here’s the thing about pontoon boats — they’re built for comfort, but they can also deliver a smooth and enjoyable ride. Barletta balances those priorities well. The high-performance outboard engines on models like the Corsa and Lusso can push these boats to impressive speeds .
But all that performance means nothing if you can’t easily grab a life jacket from under the seat before you throttle up.
Small conveniences compound. A working hatch strut makes the whole boat feel better maintained and more enjoyable to use.
The same logic applies to other Barletta features. The integrated Bimini Top Systems that deploy with the push of a button? They’re wonderful until the mechanism wears out. The LED docking and navigation lighting? Great until a bulb fails. Every system on a boat needs occasional attention.
When was the last time you checked the small parts on your boat that you use every single trip?
Chart: How Often Do Boat Gas Struts Need Replacing?
Chart data reflects general marine industry guidance that gas cylinders typically last about five years before losing effectiveness . Actual lifespan depends on use, climate, and storage.
Step-by-Step: Replacing a Barletta Under-Seat Hatch Strut
You don’t need to be handy to do this job. If you can change a battery in a TV remote, you can change a gas strut.
Step 1: Open the hatch and support it
Before you remove anything, prop the hatch open with a wooden dowel or a helper. When you pop the old strut off, the hatch will want to fall.
Safety note: Never put your hand where the hatch could slam down. Use a prop rod or ask someone to hold it.
Step 2: Remove the old strut
Most marine gas struts use ball-and-socket fittings. Look at each end of the strut. You’ll usually see a small metal clip or a plastic retaining ring.
Use a small flathead screwdriver to lift the clip. Then pull the strut off the ball stud. It may take a little wiggle.
Step 3: Compare the old and new struts
Before you install the new one, lay both struts side by side. Push the new one down to compressed length. It should match. Pull it out to extended length. It should match. If the new strut is dramatically different in length or force, stop and get the right one.
Step 4: Snap the new strut on
Press one end of the new strut onto its ball stud. You should hear or feel a click. Do the same for the other end.
That’s it. Seriously.
Step 5: Test the hatch
Lower the hatch slowly. It should close smoothly. Lift it again. The strut should help. If the hatch feels too stiff or won’t close all the way, you may have a strut with too much force. If it still droops, the force is too low.
Most Barletta under-seat hatches use struts in the 30–90 pound range, but check your original part or contact your dealer if you’re unsure.
How long do you think it would take you to replace a strut now that you know the steps?
Maintaining Your Barletta’s Storage and Comfort Systems
A gas strut replacement is a gateway to thinking about other small maintenance items that keep a luxury pontoon boat feeling luxurious.
Check the seals around hatches
If water is getting into your under-seat storage, the problem might not be the hatch itself. It could be the weatherstripping. A dry storage compartment keeps gear dry and prevents mold.
Lubricate the ball studs
A tiny dab of marine grease on the ball studs helps new struts snap on smoothly and last longer.
Barletta’s non-slip marine flooring and premium marine vinyl seating get most of the attention. But the storage system beneath is just as important to a good day on the water.
Watch for rust on other hardware
If one strut has rusted, look at the screws and hinges around your hatches. Stainless hardware should last, but even stainless can show surface discoloration over time.
What other small parts on your boat might be quietly wearing out?
Blockquote: Why Details Define a Luxury Pontoon
“Barletta boats are engineered for a smooth, quiet ride while maximizing comfort and onboard space.”
That quote captures the brand’s philosophy. The V.I.P. Technology and full-length crossmembers are part of it. So are the pet-friendly features like Doggie Dock View gates and built-in food and water dishes .
But comfort isn’t only about the big engineering decisions. It’s about the hundred small interactions you have with your boat every day. A hatch that lifts easily. A seat that adjusts smoothly. A cooler that slides out without a fight.
Those small interactions are what make a boat feel like yours.
FAQ: Gas Struts and Barletta Pontoon Ownership
What makes Barletta boats unique?
Barletta combines premium construction with thoughtful details like pet-friendly features and vibration isolation. The brand’s rapid growth since 2017 reflects strong demand for its balance of luxury and usability .
Are Barletta pontoons good for beginners?
Yes. The boats are known for stable handling and intuitive layouts. Features like hydraulic steering systems and advanced helm control panels make them approachable for new boaters .
How fast can a Barletta pontoon go?
Speed depends on the model and engine. A Lusso tested with a 400hp Mercury reached over 53 mph . Smaller models with 200hp engines are better suited for cruising than top-speed runs.
What engine size is best for a Barletta boat?
For family cruising and light water sports, a 150–200hp outboard works well. For skiing and heavier loads, 250hp or more is better. Models like the Corsa and Lusso handle up to 400hp .
Are Barletta boats safe for families?
Yes. Barletta boats feature full perimeter railing, pinch-protected gates, and stable pontoon designs. Always wear life jackets and follow local boating laws when operating any vessel.
What maintenance does a Barletta boat require?
Routine maintenance includes engine service, hull cleaning, and checking wear items like gas struts and seals. Gas struts typically need replacement around the five-year mark .
Can you use a Barletta boat for water sports?
Absolutely. With the right engine and a tritoon package, Barletta boats can pull tubes and wakeboarders. The extended swim platforms and high-performance outboard engines on models like the Corsa support active water sports .
Ending: The Small Fix That Makes a Big Difference
There’s a certain satisfaction in fixing something yourself. Not because it’s hard. Because it’s simple, and it makes your boat better.
A gas spring strut replacement won’t turn heads at the marina. Nobody will ask you about it at the sandbar. But every time you open that under-seat hatch and it lifts with one finger, you’ll know.
That’s the thing about boat ownership. The big purchases get the attention. The small fixes deliver the daily joy.
Barletta pontoon boats are built for the kind of days that make you want to stay on the water longer. VIP Technology, premium marine vinyl seating, integrated Bimini Top Systems—these are the features that sell boats. But the strut under the seat is part of the same story. It’s a small part of a bigger promise: that your time on the water should feel easy.
So the next time a hatch feels heavy, don’t ignore it. Order a stainless strut. Grab a screwdriver. Spend fifteen minutes on a fix that you’ll appreciate every single trip.
What’s your favorite Barletta boat feature or on-the-water experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
References:
