JULY 17, 2025

How to Operate the Palfinger PLR Tuckunder Liftgate Safely and Correctly

The Palfinger PLR series liftgate offers reliable performance and smart design for medium to heavy-duty trucks and trailers. To ensure your tuck under liftgate operates safely and reliably, it’s important to follow proper procedures for operation, understand the control options available, and observe loading and safety best practices.

• Documentation Resources from Palfinger
• Control Options: Toggle, Handheld, and Wireless
• Preparing and Operating the Liftgate
• Platform and Cart Stop Configurations
• Safety Best Practices for Liftgate Use
• Troubleshooting: Liftgate Stuck in Up or Down Position
• Additional Safety Warnings and Improper Use
• Conclusion

Documentation Resources from Palfinger

Information in this article is sourced from Palfinger PLR 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:

• Palfinger PLR Owners Manual
• Palfinger PLR Installation Manual
• Palfinger PLR Tuckunder Liftgate Parts Manual

Control Options: Toggle, Handheld, and Wireless

The Palfinger PLR Tuck Under liftgate series can be operated using one of several control interfaces: a standard toggle switch, an optional wired handheld remote, or a wireless remote control. Understanding each method helps ensure precise and safe use.

Toggle Switch Operation

The toggle switch is the most common method of operation. The ON/OFF switch is typically located in the truck cab or near the rear corner post for trailers. Once powered on, the toggle switch allows you to raise or lower the platform by holding it in the corresponding UP or DOWN position. Be sure to stand clear of the platform area during use (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 13).

Handheld Remote (Optional)

The wired handheld remote offers an alternative control option and is especially useful when operating the liftgate from outside the vehicle. It includes a black button for lowering and a white button for lifting the platform. Always avoid storing this remote inside refrigerated vehicles, as extreme temperatures may damage the device (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 15).

Handheld Remote (Optional)

A wireless handheld remote provides flexibility and mobility during operation. Before use, turn the remote on via the power switch located on the back. Individual buttons control the up and down movement. Once complete, switch the unit off and store it safely in the cab (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 15).

Need Replacement Parts?

If your toggle switch, handheld remote, or wireless controller needs replacing, you can purchase liftgate parts directly through LiftGateMe for Palfinger and other major brands.

Preparing and Operating the Liftgate

Each use should begin with a safety and functional check. Only operate the tuck-away liftgate with full understanding of your control setup and platform type.

Opening the Liftgate

• Turn the ON/OFF switch to the ON position.
• On single-cylinder models, unhook the safety chain from the bed extension before using the DOWN toggle.
• Press DOWN to lower the platform until it rests on the roll-off wheels.
• Manually pull the platform outward and unfold the tip section using the handle (steel platform) or strap (aluminum platform).

(Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, pp. 13–14)

Loading Procedure

Center the cargo 24 inches from the rear of the bed extension on the platform. This position ensures proper weight distribution and maximizes rated capacity. Overloading or uneven loading can lead to system failure or accidents (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 12).

Closing the Liftgate

• Raise the platform approximately 16" from the ground.
• Fold the tip and secure it with the chain or strap.
• Manually lift the platform to rest on roll-off wheels.
• Press the UP toggle to return the liftgate to the stored position.
• Reattach the safety chain (single-cylinder models only).
• Turn OFF the power switch when not in use.

(Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 14)

Platform and Cart Stop Configurations

PLR platforms come in steel and aluminum, each offering different features like safety chain types and cart stop styles.

Platform Materials

• Steel Platforms: Use a steel chain to secure the tip section.
• Aluminum Platforms: Use a strap that connects the main and tip sections.

These variations affect folding, securing, and handling processes during operation (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 13).

Cart Stops (Optional)

Cart stops prevent rolling items from exiting the platform unintentionally.

• Aluminum Platforms: Move the latch outward to deploy both stops. To close, push the latch inward and step down on each stop.
• Steel Platforms: Push each retaining latch inward to open. To close, push each cart stop down and lock it in place with the latch (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, pp. 16–17).

Safety Best Practices for Liftgate Use

Safety should always be top of mind when using a tuckunder liftgate. The PLR series includes built-in safety features, but responsible operation is essential.

• Operator Training: Only trained personnel should operate the liftgate.
• Clear the Area: Keep all bystanders and non-essential personnel clear of the platform and load zone.
• No Passenger Use: Never ride the platform, especially with unstable loads.
• Load Limit Adherence: Respect the rated weight capacity, listed on the unit label. This applies for both raising and lowering actions.
• Regular Inspection: Before each use, check the liftgate for mechanical damage, leaks, or malfunctioning controls.
• Battery and Power Check: Ensure sufficient battery power and verify all switches and fuses are intact (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, pp. 6–9).

Troubleshooting: Liftgate Stuck in Up or Down Position

Should your liftgate become stuck in either position, begin by checking power and control systems.

• Stuck in Up Position: Ensure the ON/OFF switch is active. Verify power from the battery and inspect the inline fuse at the solenoid (15A). If the lift still won’t lower, test the release valve and toggle switch wiring. (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 25).
• Stuck in Down Position: Confirm the motor solenoid clicks when activating the UP switch. No clicking may indicate a failed solenoid or motor. If the lift doesn’t respond, the issue could be in the power connection, fuse, or solenoid terminals. (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, p. 28).

For both scenarios, consult a qualified service technician if basic diagnostics don’t resolve the issue.

For a deeper dive into common liftgate issues—including fuse checks, hydraulic problems, and solenoid diagnostics—check out our complete Lift Gate Not Working Troubleshooting Guide.

Additional Safety Warnings and Improper Use

Palfinger also lists several unsafe practices and situations to avoid. These do not fit neatly into the operation steps but are critical to overall safety.

• Never use the liftgate as a work platform, snow plow, or to push, pull, or tow items.
• Do not use the hydraulic system to shear, bend, or break objects.
• Do not operate the vehicle with the platform unfolded.
• Do not allow a forklift to drive over the platform.
• Do not bypass or disable any safety feature or warning label.

Each of these risks can cause severe injury or permanent damage to the equipment (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, pp. 8–9).

Conclusion

Operating a Palfinger PLR tuck under liftgate safely and effectively requires familiarity with the controls, loading methods, platform configurations, and basic troubleshooting.

Whether you're using a toggle, wired remote, or wireless control, it’s critical to understand the full sequence of opening, using, and closing the liftgate. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines ensures safe cargo handling, extends the equipment’s life, and helps avoid issues like a liftgate stuck in the up or down position.

Always refer to the official manuals for full safety instructions and maintenance requirements (Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Owners-Manual.pdf, PLR Installation Manual_06-2017.pdf, Palfinger-PLR-Tuckunder-Liftgate-Parts-Manual.pdf).