Pickup Truck Liftgate Guide: Everything You Need to Know
August 01, 2024
Considering a liftgate for your pickup truck? This guide covers everything from mounting brackets to installation, ensuring you choose the best liftgate for your needs.
Image taken from maxonlift.com
Thinking about adding a liftgate to your pickup truck? It’s a great upgrade, but there are a few considerations before you rush to buy one.
From the liftgate mounting brackets available for your vehicle to the clearance your pickup has, it’s crucial to assess and understand how these factors influence potential liftgate options.
You’ll want to think about the liftgate’s capacity, power source, and installation requirements, otherwise you risk damaging your new liftgate or causing severe safety issues.
Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
This guide and our team will walk you through everything you need to know to make sure your truck is ready for a new gate as well as the available options on the market.
Let’s get started!
What you'll discover in this article:
- The Difference Between a Pickup Tailgate and a Pickup Liftgate
- Where to purchase a liftgate for your pickup truck
- Factors to Consider Before Adding a Liftgate
- Manufacturers and models of Pickup Truck Liftgates
- How to Select a Liftgate for a Pickup Truck
- Common options for a pickup truck liftgate
The Difference Between a Pickup Tailgate and a Pickup Liftgate
A tailgate is a hinged horizontal door attached to the back of a pickup truck, manufactured by the automaker as part of the truck's body. In contrast, a pickup liftgate is a lifting platform powered by an electrohydraulic system. It replaces the tailgate for additional functional benefits.
Additionally, while a tailgate hinges downward to provide access for loading and unloading of cargo, a liftgate is used to lift items to and from the ground to bed level, saving you from the physical heavy lifting of large loads and helping to prevent injury. Many models can provide lifting capacities up to 1,600 lbs.
Unlike a tailgate that is provided by your truck’s manufacturer at build time, a pickup liftgate is manufactured by companies specializing in liftgates made for box trucks, trailers, stake bodies, and, you guessed it, pickups!
Looking for a new lift gate for your truck? Get your quote now and look no further!
Get Quote Now!Where to purchase a liftgate for your pickup truck
Purchasing a liftgate should only be made through a reputable installer or liftgate distributor.
LiftGateMe is a distributor for America's most reputable pickup liftgate brands on the market today.
Our team has personally sold and installed these gates on pickup trucks, so we have a great deal of experience and confidence that we can find the perfect gate for you.
Our team is more than happy to assist you with finding the correct pickup liftgate for you or your customer.
If you need an installer, please let us know as well and we are more than happy to try to assist with finding a current shop which we often work with.
Get your quote now!
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.
Factors to Consider Before Adding a Liftgate
Not all pickup trucks nor liftgate models are created equal. That’s why it's essential to understand the requirements and limitations of both your truck and new liftgate.
From OEM mounting brackets to the strength of your truck's chassis, several factors will determine whether your pickup can accommodate a liftgate.
Let's explore the key considerations and ensure your truck can handle this upgrade.
OEM Mounting Brackets available by Liftgate Manufacturers
Determine the availability of OEM mounting brackets provided by the liftgate manufacturer. Although some manufacturers may produce a pickup liftgate, not all will have the mounting brackets required for your specific vehicle given its make, year, and model. Keep in mind that even when having OEM mounting components, welding is always needed. We will talk more about this later on.
Strength of the back of the pickup truck
Here, we usually see a minimum of a 1500 series or Half Ton pickup chassis will be required.
Total Liftgate Capacity
The total liftgate capacity must incorporate a margin of safety. For example, if the cargo you will be carrying with your truck weighs up to 600 lbs, a 750 liftgate should do. However, it is better for you to go for a 1,000 lbs gate or so to achieve that margin of safety. We always recommend erring on the side of caution for the safety of our customers and the longevity of the liftgate.
Power Source
When installing a pickup lift, the only power source available is the OEM vehicle charging system. This is the alternator and the battery which are commonly located in the engine compartment. Therefore, you need to keep in mind whether it is possible to run a power cable with a circuit breaker from the location of the battery to the power unit of the gate in order to supply it.
Clearance from bed height
Clearance from the ground to the height of the bed (Bed or Deck Height) must adhere to the manufacturer’s requirements. For example, Anthony Liftgate's installation mounting requirements for their AC series indicates the bed to top of clearance to be exactly 20” when the bed height goes between 50” to 51”. You can see more details here.
Lifting Capacities Available
Liftgates specifically made for Pickup Trucks come in varying weight capacities, typically ranging from 750 to 1,600 pounds for pickup trucks. Choose a liftgate that matches the weight of the items you typically transport.
We always recommend being conservative when you estimate needed capacity. This is for your safety and the longevity of the liftgate.
Added weight of a pickup liftgate
The weight of a pickup liftgate is between 435 lbs and 670 lbs. This weight will vary depending on manufacturer, model, and accessories.
The weight of the pickup liftgate should be a critical concern when assessing which pickup gate is best for you since it will add a significant amount of load to your vehicle. Remember to add the margin of safety as we mentioned above.
Installation
Installing a liftgate can be complex and may require professional assistance. It involves securing the liftgate to the truck frame, connecting hydraulic and electric systems, and ensuring it operates safely and efficiently, among other things.
At this point, it is important to highlight that each installation case is fairly unique with varying requirements.
Generally, pickups require bolt-on bed mount gussets and possible under-bed reinforcement brackets that are welded. Keep in mind that bed extensions and rails are not used in pickup liftgates, and other modifications may apply to gate or application requirements.
Also, any and all with a remote battery box (optional equipment), may need to be bolted or welded to framing/sub framing as well.
Operation
Most liftgates operate using a control switch that raises and lowers the platform. Ensure the controls are easy to use and accessible.
Some models have an optional handheld remote for operation. Always inquire about this for added safety and ease of use.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the liftgate functioning properly. This includes lubricating moving parts, checking hydraulic fluid levels, and inspecting all mechanical and moving components for any signs of wear or damage.
Cost
The cost of a pickup truck liftgate can vary widely based on its type, weight capacity, and additional features. To shed some light, pickup truck liftgates usually range between $2,000 and $8,000.
Budget accordingly, and consider the long-term benefits of added functionality and ease of loading.
Application Requirements
The requirements of your specific application should also factor. For example, you could transform your pickup into a dump truck by mounting a Dump-through liftgate, but your pickup will require a dump truck body to achieve this transformation.
Manufacturers and models of Pickup Truck Liftgates
Not all liftgate manufacturers offer pickup liftgates, but some do and even offer different models with a diverse range of options.
Here are the manufacturers we recommend you if you are looking for a pickup truck liftgate.
Maxon
Maxon is a renowned liftgate manufacturer that offers the C2 pickup liftgate from their light-duty series. The C2 pickup liftgate comes in 1,300 lbs and 1,500 lbs capacities, and it is designed for high performance and low maintenance.
The series also comes in versions for service body, stakebed, and dump-through applications. These applications top out at 1,600 lbs capacity.
Anthony
Another staple in the liftgate manufacturers universe, Anthony offers the ALB (Anthony Load Blazer) pickup series which come with a twin cylinder drive, a stabilizer beam, lifetime-warranty service free bushings, spare tire access, and marine duty potted toggle switch.
Designed to best fit 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickup trucks, the load capacity goes up to 1,500 lbs, and it can only work on service bodies.
Thieman
Thieman’s TT-15 is a great option for pickup trucks. It offers a fully enclosed lifting mechanism (power unit and cylinders) that improves appearance and protection from the environment. It comes in both steel and aluminum with a capacity of 1,500 lbs.
Thieman pickup truck liftgate boasts a design that reduces maintenance needs and meets TMC electrical guidelines.
How to Select a Liftgate for a Pickup Truck
Selecting the right liftgate for your pickup truck involves considering several factors to ensure compatibility, functionality, and efficiency:
1. Determine Your Needs
Assess what you need from a liftgate. Consider the typical weight and size of the items you transport. This will help you determine the necessary weight capacity and size of the liftgate.
2. Lifting Capacity
Verify the lifting capacity required for your needs. Liftgates are rated by their lifting capacity, so ensure that the liftgate you select can handle the heaviest load you plan to carry. Also, make sure your pickup truck can handle both the added weight of the liftgate plus cargo.
3. Installation Requirements
Check the compatibility with your truck. Some liftgates are designed to fit specific truck models. It’s important to ensure that the liftgate you choose can be properly installed on your truck. Consider consulting with a professional installer to assess your truck’s frame and wiring requirements.
4. Budget
Liftgates come in various price ranges. While high-capacity and feature-rich liftgates may be more expensive, they offer more functionality. Balance your budget with your needs to find a liftgate that provides the best value.
5. Brand and Warranty
Choose reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Check the warranty terms to ensure you are covered against manufacturing defects and operational issues.
6. Payload Capacity
Your vehicle should be at least a 1500 size or Half-Ton truck with a payload capacity of at least 1,000 lbs. Liftgates for pickups typically weigh between 400 to 600 lbs, so your vehicle must be able to handle the combined weight of the liftgate and the load you intend to carry.
It's also essential to account for a margin of safety to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the liftgate. If you have any doubts about your truck's capacity to support the liftgate and cargo, consult an expert for guidance.
Not sure yet? Contact us and let us help you with your selection
Contact Us Now!Common options for a pickup truck liftgate
When it comes to selecting a pickup truck liftgate, there are several additional options offered by different manufacturers. Let’s go over some of the most common options available on the market today.
Platform materials
Platforms are usually made of steel or aluminum, the latter being a great option for rough environments.
Now, apart from offering these materials, some manufacturers also offer additional treatments and finishes. For example, Maxon offers a hot dip galvanized finish and a Bar Grate platform. Thieman also offers galvanized finish and options like expanded metal and extruded aluminum.
Control options
Another place where manufacturers can become creative is their control offerings. Here, Anthony Liftgates excel with options that include wireless, removable handheld corded, and dual control options. To compete, Maxon and Thieman offer remote pendant control on a cord.
Safety features
Safety should never be underestimated when it comes to installing a pickup truck liftgate. Here, options include rubber platform protection bumpers, cab cutoff switches, bar grate for the platform, among other things.
Special features
Considering that your pickup truck could be both your work and every day vehicle, you may want to have some other special features. Among these, manufacturers offer many things such as light kits, tire rack kits, access step kits, and OEM camera/sensor relocation kits.
If you are looking for something more specific, ask for it. You most likely get it.
Conclusion
Adding a liftgate to your pickup truck requires careful consideration prior to the purchase process.
There are key factors to consider like OEM mounting brackets, truck chassis strength, liftgate capacity, power source requirements, and bed height clearance.
As always our team advocates to prioritize safety by selecting a liftgate with a capacity greater than your usual cargo load. Additionally, consider features that enhance safety as well as usability, such as handheld remote controls and anti-slip platform surfaces.
For installation, consult a professional installer for a smooth process and maintain your liftgate regularly to ensure longevity for years to come.
By understanding your unique needs, your truck’s specifications, available liftgate models and their options, you’ll enhance your truck’s versatility and efficiency with your new gate.
Still have questions? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us today.
Subscribe to keep in touch
Get our content delivered directly to your inbox. We're offering powerful content to keep you lifting throughout the year. Keep in touch with us to see why we're your Single Source partner for all things liftgate.
