MAY 29, 2025

How to Choose the Right Maxon C2 Pickup Liftgate: Load, Capacity, and Platform Fit

Choosing the best pickup truck liftgate isn't just about matching specs — it's about finding the right fit for your truck, your cargo, and how you work. The C2 pickup truck model made by Maxon Liftgate is one of the most trusted and configurable liftgates for full-size pickups, offering a wide variety of platform types, load capacities, and optional features.

This guide walks you through the key decisions to help you choose the best C2 model for your application.

• Documentation Resources from Maxon
• Step 1: Determine Your Required Lifting Capacity (1300 lb vs 1500 lb)
• Step 2: Choose Your Platform Material Based on Environment and Traction Needs
• Step 3: Match Platform Depth to Your Cargo and Loading Needs
• Step 4: Consider Optional Features Based on Work Style
• Maxon C2 Model Overview: Compare by Platform, Capacity, and Configuration
• Conclusion

Documentation Resources from Maxon

Information in this article is sourced from Maxon’s C2 series manuals and technical guides as well as our Team’s expertise. Always refer to your specific liftgate’s manuals for complete procedures and serial number, model, and year-specific details.

Reference PDFs used:

• C2 Spec Sheet (M211, Rev. D1.2)
• C2 Operation Manual (M-14-36A, Rev. A)
• C2 Application Brackets Chart (Rev. D1.4)
• C2 Hitch Compatibility Chart (Rev. D1.5)

Step 1: Determine Your Required Lifting Capacity (1300 lb vs 1500 lb)

This Maxon Liftgate, C2 series, comes in two rated capacities: 1300 lb (C2-60-1342 models) and 1500 lb (C2-60-1542 models). While both series offer the same platform styles and dimensions, choosing the right capacity depends on your typical load profile.

• Choose 1300 lb if:
• You transport lighter goods (aluminum loads, delivery boxes, small tools)
• You want to preserve your truck's available payload
• You rarely lift over 1,000 lb
• Choose 1500 lb if:
• You frequently haul heavy tools, tires, or compacted pallets
• You want the most flexibility and don’t mind slightly more gate weight

📄 Source: All individual model spec sheets — e.g., C2-60-1542 TP38, C2-60-1342 EA27

Step 2: Choose Your Platform Material Based on Environment and Traction Needs

Many manufacturers provide a variety of platform types for each model of lift gate. Maxon C2 platforms come in four surface types, available across both lifting capacities:

• Steel (TP models): Durable diamond-plate design, available in 27", 38", and 42" depths
• Aluminum (EA models): Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, in 27", 38", and 48"
• Grip Strut (GS models): Best for rain, snow, or oil-slick environments
• Bar Grate (BG models): Allows water and debris to pass through easily

For a full breakdown of dimensions, weights, ramp sizes, and use cases:
👉 Read: Maxon Pickup Liftgate C2 Platform Options: Steel, Aluminum, Grip Strut, and Bar Grate

📄 Source: Model-specific PDFs like C2-60-1542 BG27, C2-60-1342 GS27

Step 3: Match Platform Depth to Your Cargo and Loading Needs

All Maxon C2 platforms are 55 inches wide, but depth and ramp size vary by model. Choosing the right configuration depends on what you're lifting — and how much clearance you need.

Ramp sizes range from 4" to 7", depending on model. Flipover platforms are standard on longer sizes (EA48, TP42).

📄 Source: C2-60-1342 TP42, C2-60-1542 EA48, C2-60-1542 TP27

Step 4: Consider Optional Features Based on Work Style

Whether you work solo or manage a fleet, Maxon offers a range of options to help your lift gate match your workday.

• Hot Dip Galvanized Finish: Included at no extra cost; great for salt exposure
• Remote Pendant Control: Stand beside the load while operating the gate
• Light Kits: Essential for night deliveries
• Rubber Bumpers: Protect platform edges from impact
• Tire Rack Kit: Popular in tire delivery and automotive service
• Pre-Punched Sensor Mounts: Built into all C2 models for easy integration with OEM backup cameras and sensors

📄 Source: C2 Spec Sheet (M211), C2-60-1542 TP42, C2-60-1342 EA38

Maxon C2 Model Overview: Compare by Platform, Capacity, and Configuration

Here’s a quick reference of every Maxon C2 model by platform type, construction, and capacity. You can use this to match your lifting needs to the right configuration:

👉 Find the complete breakdown under “Maxon C2 Model Overview” 

📄 Sources: All individual spec sheets provided for C2-60-1542 and C2-60-1342 series【51–77†source】

Conclusion

Choosing the correct pickup truck lift gate for your needs doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you understand your lifting needs, platform environment, and available features, Maxon’s C2 series gives you everything you need — without overcomplicating the process.

Start with capacity (1300 vs 1500 lb), pick the platform that matches your environment, and use the optional features to fine-tune performance. Whether you’re lifting tires, tools, or bulky freight, the C2 is built for low-maintenance, everyday performance.

When you’re ready, our team is standing by. We’ll help you find the best liftgate for your pickup truck that’s for sale so you can get back to lifting with ease.