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AUG 11, 2026

Maxon GPC X1 vs. X4: Comparing the GPC 17, GPC 22, GPC 33, and GPC 44 Liftgates

Maxon’s GPC Conventional Series includes X1 and X4 cantilever liftgate designs with different capacities, platform configurations, total liftgate weights, bed-height ranges, and lifting-mechanism arrangements. This comparison covers the GPC 17 X1, GPC 22 X1, GPC 33 X4, and GPC 44 X4 using the specifications in the supplied 2025 Maxon product sheets.

Selecting among these models requires comparing the published capacity, platform dimensions, total weight, laden and unladen bed-height limits, mounting dimensions, controls, options, and X1 or X4 mechanism. Each specification must be checked for the exact model and platform configuration.

• Documentation Resources from Maxon
• Overview of the Maxon GPC Cantilever Lineup
• How Maxon X1 Technology Is Configured
• How Maxon X4 Technology Is Configured
• Capacity Comparison
• Platform Size and Configuration Comparison
• Total Liftgate Weight Comparison
• Bed-Height and Mounting-Range Comparison
• Standard Controls and Features
• Optional Features
• Which Maxon GPC Model Fits Which Requirement?
• Maxon GPC Model-Selection Checklist
• Conclusion

Documentation Resources from Maxon

Information in this article is sourced from Maxon GPC specification sheets, the Maxon GPC user and maintenance manual, and our team’s expertise. Always refer to the manuals for the specific liftgate, vehicle, model, and serial number before ordering equipment, selecting replacement components, or planning an installation.

Reference PDFs used:

• Maxon GPC 17 X-1 and GPC 22 X-1 Spec Sheet
• Maxon GPC 33 and 44 X4 Series Spec Sheet
• Maxon GPC Series Maintenance Manual

Overview of the Maxon GPC Cantilever Lineup

The four Maxon GPC models are divided into two X1 models and two X4 models. Each model has its own rated capacity, published platform, weight, bed height, and mounting information.

• GPC 17 X1: an X1 cantilever with a rated capacity of 1,700 lb.
• GPC 22 X1: an X1 cantilever with a rated capacity of 2,200 lb.
• GPC 33 X4: an X4 cantilever with a rated capacity of 3,300 lb.
• GPC 44 X4: an X4 cantilever with a rated capacity of 4,400 lb.

(Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

The GPC 17 X-1 and GPC 22 X-1 diagrams found in the maintenance manual identify relevant components such as a platform, lifting arm, lifting cylinder, closing arm, closing cylinder, compact power unit, underbody impact guard, mounting bracket, axle assembly, controls, warning lights, and cart stop. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, pp. 6–7.)

The GPC 33 X-4 and GPC 44 X-4 overviews include left- and right-side lifting gear, lifting cylinders, closing cylinders, an axle assembly, an underbody impact guard, mounting brackets, controls, warning lights, and cart stops. In both X4 diagrams, the compact power unit is identified as integrated into the axle assembly. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, pp. 8–9.)

The model-specific tables and component diagrams show that capacity, platform availability, total weight, bed-height limits, and mechanism configuration must be verified for the complete GPC model designation.

How Maxon X1 Technology Is Configured

X1 technology is the mechanism used for the GPC 17 X1 and GPC 22 X1. Maxon describes it as a simplified lifting mechanism that eliminates two cylinders. The X1 design technology allows a liftgate to raise and lower its full lift capacity using one cylinder for up-and-down movement and one cylinder for tilting. The underrun bar connects the lift and tilt arm mechanisms. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 2.)

Also, this arrangement eliminates 20% of the total weight of a comparable four-cylinder liftgate. This is specifically a comparison with a comparable four-cylinder liftgate; it does not establish a fixed 20% difference between every X1 and X4 model or platform configuration. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 2.)

Eliminating two cylinders simplifies the lifting mechanism, and this means there is less to maintain over the life of the liftgate. There are also grease-free bearings and a service switch that enables a service mechanic to operate and test all lift functions. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1.)

The liftgate is equipped with maintenance-free bearings that require no lubrication throughout their service life. A compact power pack moves the lifting or closing cylinder or cylinders to the required position. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, pp. 5, 10.)

The documented X1 distinction is the use of one cylinder for lifting and lowering and one for tilting, with the underrun bar connecting the lift and tilt arm mechanisms. The GPC 17 X1 and GPC 22 X1 still have different capacities, platform sizes, total weights, bed-height ranges, and mounting dimensions.

How Maxon X4 Technology Is Configured

X4 technology is used for the GPC 33 X4 and GPC 44 X4. Its cylinder arrangement differs from the X1 mechanism.

The X4 technology has two lifting cylinders and two tilting cylinders. These cylinders are stacked above each other. (Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, pp. 1–2.)

This configuration optimizes platform stability and leaves more space for light placement. (Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, pp. 1–2.)

The maintenance manual diagrams identify separate left and right-side lifting gear and show two lifting cylinders and two closing-cylinder positions on the GPC 33 X-4 and GPC 44 X-4. The diagrams also identify the compact power unit as integrated into the axle assembly. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, pp. 8–9.)

The X4 configuration must be evaluated with the specific capacity, platform dimensions, total weight, bed-height range, and mounting information for either the GPC 33 X4 or GPC 44 X4.

Capacity Comparison

Rated capacity is one of the clearest differences among the four models. Capacity must be confirmed using the exact model designation and the liftgate’s rating information.

The model tables associate each complete model designation with a specific capacity. The serial number is required for technical support, spare parts orders, and warranty claims. A rating plate containing the loading diagram and serial number is affixed to the liftgate. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, p. 11.)

A buyer, mechanic, or fleet manager should therefore verify the complete model designation, serial number, and rating plate rather than identifying a Maxon liftgate from its general appearance or capacity class alone.

Platform Size and Configuration Comparison

All four model tables identify the published platform style as “Wedge.” The specification sheets also identify aluminum platforms as standard equipment. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, pp. 1–2; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, pp. 1–2.)

Available Platform Sizes

The GPC 17 X1 is published with a 60-inch platform depth and either a 79- or 89-inch width. The GPC 22 X1 adds published 48-, 60-, and 72-inch depths with 92- or 98-inch widths. The GPC 33 X4 is listed with 60-, 72-, and 84-inch depths, while the GPC 44 X4 is listed with 72- and 84-inch depths. These platform combinations are shown for the specified models and should not be transferred from one model table to another.

Aluminum Platform Construction

The specification sheets describe the aluminum platform as robust and lightweight and identify it as a standard feature. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, pp. 1–2; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, pp. 1–2.)

The platform comprises clipped-together aluminum hollow sections stabilized by welded tip and end sections. The platform has a smooth back for accommodating advertising labels. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, p. 10.)

Cart Stops and Loadable Platform Space

Dual cart stops are included in the standard-feature lists. There’s also a loadable platform space remaining when the cart stops are deployed. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, pp. 1–2; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, pp. 1–2.)

Platform selection should account for both the overall published platform depth and the published loadable dimension with the cart stops deployed.

Total Liftgate Weight Comparison

Published total weight changes with the model and platform configuration. The weight for one platform size should not be applied to another size or model.

The tables show a separate total weight for every published platform configuration. The applicable total weight should therefore be taken from the complete model-and-platform combination rather than from the model family alone.

Bed-Height and Mounting-Range Comparison

The minimum laden and maximum unladen bed heights differ among the models. These limits must be compared with the intended vehicle before installation planning.

The specification-sheet diagrams show model-specific dimensional relationships among the floor level, chassis or lower vehicle-frame edge, lifting arm, ground, and bed height. The illustrated mounting dimensions differ among the GPC 17 X1, GPC 22 X1, GPC 33 X4, and GPC 44 X4. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

Both specification sheets direct the reader to the applicable installation manual for specific mounting requirements. The diagrams support initial comparison but do not replace the model- and vehicle-specific installation documentation.

Standard Controls and Features

The X1 and X4 specification sheets contain matching standard-feature lists. The mechanisms, capacities, platform availability, total weights, and bed-height ranges remain model-specific.

Features Listed as Standard

The following items appear under “Standard Features” on page 2 of both specification sheets:

• Aluminum platform
• Platform automatic leveling with soft landing
• Platform warning lights
• Dual cart stops
• Platform ground rollers
• Stainless cylinder rods with nitrate treatment
• Completely sealed flat-panel main control
• Hand-held control
• Cab cut-off switch

Individual functions are controlled through a very flat control panel with four membrane switches. The hydraulic-cylinder connecting rods are nitrided. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, p. 10.)

Service Switch

The liftgates are equipped with a service switch that enables a service mechanic to operate and test all lift functions. The service switch is described as equipped hardware and is not included in the separately identified optional-feature lists. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

The maintenance manual diagrams also identify control units with service switches for the GPC models. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, pp. 6–9.)

Grease-Free Bearings

The respective models are equipped with grease-free bearings. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

The maintenance manual states that the bearing points are maintenance-free and require no lubrication. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, pp. 5, 10.)

These documented shared controls and features do not change the model-specific capacities, platform configurations, weights, bed-height ranges, or lifting mechanisms.

Optional Features

The two supplied specification sheets show the same five optional-feature categories for their respective X1 and X4 models.

• Full Door Seal Kit
• Flip-Up Door with Seal Kit
• Side Roll Off Guards
• Install Fixture
• 24 Volt Pump/Motor System

The specification sheets identify these items as options but do not state that every option is compatible with every vehicle, body, door, platform, or electrical configuration. The complete model and vehicle configuration should therefore be verified before optional equipment is selected.

Optional equipment should be reviewed as part of the complete liftgate configuration rather than treated as a universal accessory list.

Which Maxon GPC Model Fits Which Requirement?

Model selection should be based on the capacity, dimensions, weight, mechanism, and feature information published for the exact model.

Required Rated Capacity

Start with the documented ratings:

• 1,700 lb: GPC 17 X1
• 2,200 lb: GPC 22 X1
• 3,300 lb: GPC 33 X4
• 4,400 lb: GPC 44 X4

The rating should then be confirmed against the complete model designation and rating plate. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, p. 11.)

Compatible Bed-Height Range

Compare the vehicle’s laden and unladen bed heights with the model-specific limits. The published range is 27.5 to 39.5 inches for the GPC 17 X1, 35 to 51 inches for the GPC 22 X1, 36 to 55 inches for the GPC 33 X4, and 40 to 58 inches for the GPC 44 X4.

(Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

Desired Platform Dimensions

Select only from the platform combinations published for the intended model. For example, the GPC 17 X1 is listed with 60 × 79- and 60 × 89-inch platforms, while the GPC 44 X4 is listed with 72- or 84-inch depths and 92- or 98-inch widths. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

The platform depth should also be compared with Maxon’s loadable-space chart when the cart stops are deployed. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 2; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 2.)

Available Mounting Space

Review the model-specific mounting diagram for initial dimensional comparison. The diagrams show different lifting-arm, frame, ground, and bed-height relationships for each model and direct the installer to the applicable installation manual for specific mounting requirements.

(Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

Total Liftgate Weight

Use the published weight for the exact model and platform configuration. The listed totals range from 389 pounds for the GPC 17 X1 with a 60 × 79-inch platform to 1,250 pounds for the GPC 44 X4 with an 84 × 98-inch platform.

(Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 1; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 1.)

X1 Versus X4 Mechanism Preference

Compare the documented mechanism arrangements:

• X1: one cylinder for raising and lowering and one for tilting, with an underrun bar connecting the lift and tilt arm mechanisms.
• X4: two lifting and two tilting cylinders stacked on top of each other.

The X1 sheet documents mechanism simplification, lower maintenance, and a 20% total weight reduction compared with a comparable four-cylinder liftgate. The X4 sheet documents optimized platform stability and additional space for light placement.

(Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, pp. 1–2; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, pp. 1–2.)

Required Standard or Optional Features

Confirm the listed standard controls and platform equipment, and then identify any required door seal kit, roll-off guards, installation fixture, or 24-volt pump/motor option. (Maxon-GPC-17 X-1-22 X-1-SpecSheet.pdf, p. 2; Maxon-GPC-33-44-X4-Series-SpecSheet-rev-081225-2025.pdf, p. 2.)

When reviewing a liftgate for sale, verify the complete model, platform dimensions, total weight, electrical option, and required accessories rather than relying on the GPC family designation alone.

Maxon GPC Model-Selection Checklist

Use this checklist before requesting a quote, ordering equipment, or planning an upfit.

• Record the exact model designation: GPC 17 X1, GPC 22 X1, GPC 33 X4, or GPC 44 X4.
• Confirm that the required rated capacity matches the model’s published rating.
• Select a platform size listed specifically for that model.
• Check the published loadable platform space with the cart stops deployed.
• Compare the vehicle’s minimum laden and maximum unladen bed heights with the model’s published range.
• Review the model-specific mounting diagram and verify the exact requirements through the applicable installation manual.
• Use the total liftgate weight for the exact platform configuration.
• Compare the X1 two-cylinder design with the X4 four-cylinder design.
• Confirm the standard controls and platform features.
• Determine whether the optional 24 Volt Pump/Motor System is required.
• Identify any required Full Door Seal Kit, Flip-Up Door with Seal Kit, Side Roll Off Guards, or Install Fixture.
• Verify the serial number and rating plate before ordering replacement components.
• Do not assume capacities, mounting dimensions, platforms, or parts are interchangeable among GPC models.

The specification sheets provide the comparison data, while the applicable installation manual and rating plate are needed for final vehicle and liftgate verification. Remember that the serial number is required for technical support, spare parts orders, and warranty claims. (Maxon-GPC-Series-Maintenance-Manual-rev-12-2020.pdf, p. 11.)

Conclusion

The main X1-versus-X4 distinction is the cylinder configuration. The GPC 17 X1 and GPC 22 X1 use one cylinder for raising and lowering and one for tilting, with the underrun bar connecting the lift and tilt arm mechanisms. The GPC 33 X4 and GPC 44 X4 use two lifting and two tilting cylinders stacked above each other.

The four models also have different rated capacities, available platform sizes, total weights, bed-height ranges, and mounting dimensions. A complete Maxon conventional liftgate comparison must therefore use the exact model and platform configuration rather than only the X1 or X4 designation.

LiftGateMe supplies complete liftgates and Maxon GPC liftgate parts. When requesting assistance with a complete liftgate or replacement liftgate parts, provide the exact model and serial number so the configuration can be checked against the applicable Maxon documentation.

If you need help identifying the correct Maxon GPC liftgate parts or liftgate configuration, contact our LiftGateMe Team at parts@liftgateme.com or by calling (774) 266-8892.