6.1 Comparison to Competition

Item	AVM	Others
ROD	Uses proprietary Hard Chrome plating with Passivation option for superior corrosion protection	Use standard Hard Chrome or Black Nitriding on stock steel
TUBE	E-Coat paint gives up to 480 hr. salt spray Heavier wall thickness for better dent resistance and low stress	100 hr. salt spray
PISTON PACK	Self-cleaning orifice reduces clogging & prevents lockup Short Orifice Not temperature or viscosity sensitive. Consistent dampening through the oil and the gas. Orbitally riveted & 100% tested	No self-cleaning orifice feature Long flow path        Viscosity sensitive        Labyrinth designs, only damp through oil Some designs show poor riveting; edge fractures Some use threaded nut design with potential to separate
SEAL/BUSHING PACKAGE	Teflon washer acts as wiper Lubricated tapered bronze bushing prevents cocking and lockup Multi-lobe Dynamic Seal Excellent at high pressure Accepts misalignment Tolerates some contaminates Stands up to vibration Withstands side-loading	Most have no wipers Front bushings are not lubricated, taper not evident, different materials used Lip Seal used by all others Not good at high pressures Does not like misalignment Does not like contaminates       Not good for vibration
GAS SPRING ASSEMBLY	Patented assembly process All Metal Construction Excellent at low temperatures Withstands AVM 410F paint oven Low parts count (less error) Prevents cocking & sticking	Much plastic and zinc Temperature limited High expansion More pieces in some brands Risky at full extension

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