MARCH 19, 2025
How to find correct liftgate parts every time
At LiftGateMe, we understand how crucial it is to find the correct lift gate parts quickly and accurately. We’ve developed this guide to help our customers avoid unnecessary returns and downtime. This article covers liftgate parts for manufacturers including Maxon, Waltco, Palfinger, Anthony, Eagle, Thieman, and more.
- Find Your Liftgate’s Serial Number for Accurate Parts
- The Importance of the Liftgate ID Tag
- What Numbers Will Not Work for Lift gate Part Lookup
- Using other numbers to help id lift gates
- Identifying Liftgate Parts without a serial number
- Last-Chance Workaround: No Liftgate Serial Number
- Risks of Ordering Without a Serial Number
- Notes & Advice for Customers
Find Your Liftgate’s Serial Number for Accurate Parts
At LiftGateMe, we take the guesswork out of ordering liftgate parts. That’s because we verify part numbers through a lift gate database when requested before ordering. This ensures minimal downtime, fewer returned parts, and the right components every time.
To locate your liftgate's serial number and model, visit our Liftgate Serial Number Guide. This guide provides:
* Instructions on how to find your liftgate’s serial number for each manufacturer.
* A breakdown of where serial number tags are located by brand.
* Steps to verify part numbers before ordering.
By providing a valid serial number, we can:
✅ Help you find the correct parts manual.
✅ Ensure your part numbers match your liftgate.
✅ Guarantee that the items you order are the right fit.
The Importance of the Liftgate ID Tag
The liftgate ID tag, located on the liftgate frame, is the key to ensuring you receive the correct part. This information cannot be found anywhere else on the liftgate and is essential for accurate part identification.
What information is on the ID Tag
The ID tag will usually hold the following information regardless of manufacturer:
- Serial Number
- Model
- Capacity
- Date of Manufacture
- Manufacturer Name
Why the ID Tag is Essential
Many lift gates are custom-built to specific customer requirements, which means:
- They may have gravity or power down operation.
- They may have single or dual power units.
- They may use single switches, multiple switches, or remote controls.
- They can have steel or aluminum platforms of varying sizes.
- They may include cart stops, retention plates, and bed extensions.
- Parallel arms and lift frame lengths may vary.
Providing the proper ID info guarantees that you receive the right part the first time. If incorrect parts are received due to missing or incorrect serial numbers, the return shipping is on the buyer, and restocking fees apply.
What Numbers Will Not Work for Lift gate Part Lookup
Certain numbers found on your liftgate or its components cannot be used to identify the correct parts, including:
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Numbers) cannot be used to find liftgate parts. Since a lift gate is an accessory to your vehicle, it has no records which are traceable using the VIN.
- Palfinger ID tags labeled ML# – The serial number is located under or near the ML#, but the ML# itself is not the serial number.
- Decal or sticker numbers on the liftgate or vehicle – These numbers are typically for the decal itself and do not provide any information about the liftgate.
- Numbers cast into parts – Many components such as platforms, parallel arms, switches, and harnesses have generic part numbers that are used across multiple models.
- Model and serial numbers found on power units (except some Maxon models) – These are typically casting numbers that even the manufacturer cannot look up.
- Stamped numbers on cylinders – Some cylinders may have numbers stamped into them, but these are often casting numbers, not actual part numbers, and cannot always be used for lookup.
Using other numbers to help id lift gates
Some manufacturers provide minimal information on power units.
For example, Maxon liftgates have some codes prefixed with “S”, such as “S204T*4327”, that can sometimes be looked up, but they are not always reliable and do not guarantee the correct part.
Identifying Liftgate Parts without a serial number
If the liftgate serial number is unavailable, the following methods may help:
Power units (Hydraulic Pump Assemblies)
Some manufacturers list power unit part numbers directly on the component.
- Maxon – The Maxon power unit part number appears as the “Customer Number” on the motor, valve block, or pump.
- Anthony – The power unit part number is often listed on the reservoir and may include the liftgate serial number.
- Thieman – Frequently lists the power unit part number on the reservoir.
- Waltco & Palfinger – Sometimes list the power unit part number, but it is inconsistent.
Cylinders
For Waltco, Maxon, Palfinger, Thieman lift gates, some cylinders may have part numbers stamped on them, but these will only sometimes correspond to actual part numbers.
Switches
Maxon switches may also display part numbers on them, but this is not always guaranteed for accurate lookup of other parts on the lift gate. If it has a 6 to 8 digit part number on it, let us know and we’ll have a look!
Last-Chance Workaround: No Liftgate Serial Number
If you do not have the liftgate ID tag, provide as much information as possible. Email Parts@LiftGateMe.com with the following:
- Three photos of the liftgate – One from the left, one from the rear, and one from the right, preferably with the liftgate open and down. These photos must show the platform and the framing for an ID.
- Photo of the lift gate part in question – Include its surrounding areas and any visible numbers.
- Photo of the power unit – Capture all numbers and labels on the motor and reservoir.
- Manufacturer name of the liftgate.
- Estimated year of the liftgate (or the vehicle’s year if unknown).
GET LIFTGATEME TEAM TO HELP YOU!
Email us now!If no ID tag is present, identifying parts may take additional time, as we may need to:
- Contact manufacturer engineering teams.
- Request extra photos or specific measurements.
- Conduct additional research due to the risks and complexity of mismatched parts.
Risks of Ordering Without a Serial Number
If a lift gate serial number is not provided when ordering, we cannot guarantee that the parts will be correct. If incorrect parts are received:
- The buyer is responsible for return shipping and restocking fees.
- Shipping charges are non-refundable.
- Restocking fees for orders without a serial number are 30%, non-negotiable
- Some special order liftgate parts are 100% non-returnable without the liftgate serial number.
Notes & Advice for Customers
Protect Your Liftgate ID Information
- Take a picture of your ID tag and keep a printed copy with your vehicle’s registration.
- If the ID tag is lost or damaged, having a copy ensures quick and accurate part identification.
Can You Use the Serial Number from Another Liftgate?
- No, unless the gates were purchased together and built to the exact same specifications.
- Small parts like solenoids or switches may be identical, but it is still a risk.
Understanding the Risk of Casting and Stamped Numbers
- Some manufacturers stamp numbers into cylinders or parts, but these are not always actual part numbers.
- Even if a part number is valid, it only guarantees that specific part—not other parts on the liftgate.
Need Liftgate Parts Fast? Expedited Shipping is Available!
- Standard ground shipping takes 2-5 days.
- Expedited shipping (1-2 day options) is available upon request.
- Once an order is processed and sent to the warehouse, it cannot be changed.
Read Your Quote Before Ordering
Your quote contains important details, including:
- Part stock status
- Lead times (if applicable)
- Shipping cutoff times for same-day shipping
- Part pricing, shipping charges, and any sales taxes
- Reply directly to your quote email for the fastest response.
Get the Right Liftgate Parts Every Time
The easiest way to ensure you receive the correct liftgate parts is to have the liftgate serial number from the ID tag. If that is unavailable, providing as much information as possible will help us identify the right parts for you.
For assistance, email Parts@LiftGateMe.com.
At LiftGateMe, we are committed to making your liftgate repairs as smooth and hassle-free as possible!
Have a question? We'd love to hear from you.
No liftgate serial number? Click here for a visual guide to locate it, then contact us.
