JUNE 02, 2025

Pickup Liftgate Guide | Maxon C2 Liftgate

If you’re outfitting a pickup truck liftgate for work or fleet use, the Maxon C2 series is one of the most reliable, low-maintenance options on the market. Built to support either 1300 or 1500 lbs of lifting capacity, the C2 fits a wide range of full-size trucks and offers multiple platform styles to suit different work environments.

This guide offers a complete breakdown of the Maxon C2 series — from platform options and core specs to operation, safety features, and factory upgrades — based entirely on Maxon’s verified documentation and product specification sheets.

• Documentation Resources from Maxon
• Platform Options Overview
• Maxon C2 Model Overview: Compare by Platform, Capacity, and Configuration
• Standard Features on Every Maxon C2 Liftgate
• How to Operate the Maxon C2 Liftgate
• Optional Features and Accessories
• 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)

Platform Options Overview

Before you choose a model, it’s important to understand the types of platform surfaces available. Maxon’s C2 liftgate series comes in four platform materials across both 1300 lb and 1500 lb versions: steel, aluminum, grip strut, and bar grate. Each offers unique benefits in terms of weight, durability, and surface traction.

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

With over 16 model configurations, the C2 series gives users flexibility based on platform size, construction, and material. The table below summarizes every model by number, capacity, platform style, depth, ramp size, and construction type (1-piece vs. 2-piece):

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

💡 Need help selecting a specific model? Contact LiftGateMe and we’ll guide you to the best fit based on your truck and daily usage.

Standard Features on Every Maxon C2 Liftgate

All Maxon C2 models share a consistent foundation of performance-driven features. Whether you're using a steel TP42 or an aluminum EA27, every C2 gate includes the same essential hydraulic, electrical, and safety systems designed to increase lifespan and minimize maintenance.

Hydraulic System

Maxon’s C2 uses a fully enclosed mainframe to protect all hydraulic components from weather, road debris, and damage. Each gate is powered by dual hydraulic lift cylinders, providing balanced lifting on both sides. Every model also includes a pressure relief valve to prevent platform overload and a flow control valve to prevent uncontrolled descent.
 📄 Source: All C2 model spec sheets【51–77†source】

Electrical System

C2 liftgates are equipped with a moisture-resistant toggle switch that automatically deactivates after 90 seconds of inactivity, helping to prevent unauthorized or accidental use. Each model includes a 150 Amp continuous / 3000 Amp interrupt watertight reset breaker, mounted inline with the battery cable. Power and ground are handled through a factory-supplied 4 AWG cable molded as one unit, ensuring a direct and protected connection to the truck’s electrical system.
 📄 Source: All C2 model spec sheets【51–77†source】

Structural and Safety Features

Durability and operator protection are built in:

• 3/4" hard chrome-plated parallel arm pins with self-lubricating composite bushings
• Pre-punched holes for factory backup cameras and sensors
• A recessed license plate mount built into the main frame box

📄 Source: All C2 model spec sheets【51–77†source】

How to Operate the Maxon C2 Liftgate

Even though the Maxon C2 is built for heavy-duty use, daily operation is straightforward and intuitive. Maxon outlines six major steps for safe and reliable use. All information here is taken directly from the C2 Operation Manual (M-14-36A Rev A).

1. Power Up and Activate

Press the toggle power switch to activate the liftgate. A yellow light will illuminate. Then press the "ACTIVATE" switch twice within one second to arm the gate — a red light will appear. If no further action is taken, the system deactivates after 90 seconds.

2. Release the Platform

Unlock the left and right platform latches (use the key if locked). Stand to the side and unfold the platform fully to the ground. If equipped with a flipover ramp, unfold it as the last step.

3. Load the Platform

Place the load close to the inboard edge of the platform with the heaviest portion closest to the truck. Never rest heavy items only on the flipover or ramp.

4. Raise and Unload

Use the UP toggle to lift the load to bed height. From there, push the cargo into the vehicle (never pull or stand behind the load).

5. Lower and Unload to Ground

To remove items from the vehicle, push the load out, then lower the platform to the ground and unload safely.

6. Stow the Platform

Once finished, raise the platform to bed height, fold the flipover and platform upright, and re-engage the latches on both sides. Turn off the system using the toggle.

Optional Features and Accessories

Maxon offers a range of factory add-ons that can improve safety, functionality, and compatibility for your pickup truck liftgate. These features are available on most C2 models and should be considered based on your work environment.

• Galvanized Finish: Protects against rust and corrosion, especially in winter or coastal use
• Rubber Platform Bumpers: Helps reduce impact when loading against docks or uneven terrain
• Light Kits: Add visibility when operating at night or in low-light environments
• Remote Pendant Control: Lets operators move away from the fixed control while loading or unloading
• Tire Rack Kit: Ideal for tire delivery or service trucks
• Pre-Punched Camera/Sensor Mounts: Located on the main frame cover to support OEM electronics

📄 Source: C2 Spec Sheet (M211) + model PDFs【51–77†source】

Conclusion

Maxon’s C2 series continues to be one of the most trusted names in liftgates for pickup trucks, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you need corrosion resistance, slip protection, deeper platform loading, or plug-and-play electronics support, the C2 lineup offers a model that fits.

Every model comes with factory-built safety systems, intuitive controls, and a low-maintenance design that keeps you on the road longer. If you're selecting a pickup liftgate for commercial or personal use, the Maxon C2 gives you the platform flexibility and operational reliability to lift with confidence.

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