“Pickup truck liftgates should begiven the same considerations as all liftgate types,” said Jody Lakins, sales support manager, key accounts, Waltco. “However, depending on terrain, pickup truck liftgates can be damaged from riding on rough roads in places like construction sites, so it’s important to make sure the liftgate stores properly to prevent the platform from releasing and being damaged.”
Many pickup truck users overload their liftgates, noted Ryan Fisher, director of dealership service operations, Bentley Truck Services. “We have seen issues with supports, bolts, broken chains, burned out motors, and even frames being bent,” he related.
Read more: How to elevate liftgate maintenance to avoid downtime
“Just like any other liftgate model, pickup liftgates require visual inspections and maintenance at specified intervals, typically every 30 days,” said Arnold Kowal, director of after sales service support, Maxon Lift. “These checks include but are not limited to platform support chains and cables if equipped, grease on all pivot points, an inspection of the pump enclosure area for any fluid leaks from hoses, cylinders, and/or fittings, and ensuring all mounting bracket hardware is tight.
“If the lift was attached by welding, check for any cracks in the attachment welds,” Kowal continued. “Ensure that the hydraulic oil reservoir is full and is of the correct viscosity for the area of the country or time of year. Check for wear at all pivot points and that the mechanical transit latch is working and that the liftgate switch is in good order.”
