I have a 1996 Ranger R70 with a deck extension. My storage space is limited so a buddy and I closed off the space underneath the deck extension, installed a piano hinge on one end of the D/E, and now I have another storage area. I want to install a gas spring on the lid to keep it open but I'm not sure what length to get or how to mount it. Any advice?

Funny you should bring this up, but I've been contemplating the same thing, so I've been doing a lot of internet research.  There are a number of sites that show you how to make the measurements for installation, but I can't remember which ones.  I have nine deck lids on which I was considering installing the gas springs, but at $20+ each I decided to take the risk of the lids slamming on my fingers.

Check out the gas springs at iboats.com, they have several different sizes and tell you closed length, open length, stroke and pressure which tells how much it will lift. They also have several different types of mounting hardware so you can find something to fit your needs. You can call them also and get some advice about what you need.

Thanks for the replies.  The lid is pretty heavy so I don't want it to snap off if a gust of wind catches it.

I'll check out iboats and give a call too.