Gas Springs, again

[mrkane1952]

Greetings All:

Review of the archives leaves some questions unanswered. For example,
several vendors are described as capable of cross-referencing the
numbers from existing springs on the coach. What numbers? Of the 17
on the interior of my 85 PT40, I don't think any two are numbered the
same. I've found at least these manufacturers markings--"SPD,"
"Spring Lift," "Lift-O-Mat," and "Stabilus." Here are examples:

SPD-GS-5100-20 (Is this a 20 pound unit?)

Spring Lift
<M 3504 MI 0140N 300/99> (This a 140 Newton--30 pounder?)

Lift-O-Mat
(160 Newtons==35 pounder?)

???Anyone have the secret decoder ring for these???

In addition, suggested replacements (in the "database" and "files"
sections) have strengths ranging from 20 to 30 pounds, if I understand
the numbers given. My bin doors range from 26--36 inches in width,
plus the aft panel over the camera which is 48" wide with two springs.
Does one size fit all? If I get stronger replacements am I at risk of
knocking my glasses off each time one is opened?

The exterior bay doors are similar--some appear to be 500 Newton (120
pound) Lift-O-Mat units and some are 90 pound SPDs. ???

A final question: several of the interior bin door latches are
failing. I can find no manufacturers mark. What are these named? Is
there a suggested source?

Thanks--

M.R.Kane
1985 PT40