AUG 12, 2025
Maxon Pickup Liftgate C2 Platform Options: Steel, Aluminum, Grip Strut, and Bar Grate
Choosing the correct platform for your pickup liftgate is more than a “preference”—it impacts weight capacity, safety, and daily usability.
Maxon offers four distinct platform types for its C2 model: steel, aluminum, grip strut, and bar grate. Each one brings unique benefits, and your choice can affect everything from corrosion resistance to slip protection.
This guide breaks down each platform option using specifications taken directly from Maxon’s official C2 Pickup Liftgate sheet (M211).
Whether you’re outfitting a single truck or managing a fleet, these details can help you make the best decision for your application.
- Documentation Resources from Maxon
- Steel Platform
- Aluminum Platform
- Grip Strut Platform
- Bar Grate Platform
- Summary of Key Specs
- Conclusion
- Maintenance Tips for Ramps and Platform Edges
- Platform Size, Ramp Travel, and Weight Tradeoffs
- Ideal Applications for Flipover Ramp Models
- Conclusion: Are Flipover Ramps Right for You?
Documentation Resources from Maxon
Information in this article is sourced from Maxon Liftgate’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:
Steel Platform
Steel platforms offer a strong, durable surface ideal for general-purpose use. Like other Maxon Liftgate configurations, steel options are available for both 1300 lb and 1500 lb capacity configurations.
- Models:
- C2-60-1342 TP27 / TP38 / TP42 (1300 lb)
- C2-60-1542 TP27 / TP38 / TP42 (1500 lb)
- Platform Sizes: All versions are 55" wide, with depth options of 27", 38", or 42"
- Ramp Heights:
- 27" & 38" platforms: 4"
- 42" platform: 7"
- Weight:
- TP27: 460 lbs
- TP38: 510 lbs
- TP42: 535 lbs
This is a great option if weight isn’t a major concern and you want a time-tested, rugged platform for your liftgate pickup.
Aluminum Platform
Aluminum platforms are lighter than steel, offering reduced total vehicle weight and excellent corrosion resistance. These are especially popular for delivery fleets looking to maximize payload.
- Models:
- C2-60-1342 EA27 / EA38 / EA48 (1300 lb)
- C2-60-1542 EA27 / EA38 / EA48 (1500 lb)
- Platform Sizes: 55" wide with depth options of 27", 38", or 48"
- Ramp Heights: All aluminum models include a 6" ramp
- Weight:
- EA27: 435 lbs
- EA38: 465 lbs
- EA48: 495 lbs
If your pickup truck and liftgate will be exposed to snow, ice and salt during the winter months, or salty coastal conditions, aluminum may help extend the product lifespan.
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.
Grip Strut Platform
Grip strut platforms provide enhanced traction, making them ideal for environments where slip resistance is critical—such as rain, snow, or oil-prone work areas.
- Models:
- C2-60-1342 GS27 (1300 lb)
- C2-60-1542 GS27 (1500 lb)
- Platform Size: 55" x 27"
- Ramp Height: 4"
- Weight: 460 lbs
This design combines ruggedness with increased safety and is a smart fit for pickup truck liftgate users in utility, oil field, or maintenance sectors.
Bar Grate Platform
Bar grate platforms are similar in intent to grip strut models but offer a slightly different surface design. The open-bar layout allows water and debris to fall through, reducing the risk of buildup.
- Models:
- C2-60-1342 BG27 (1300 lb)
- C2-60-1542 BG27 (1500 lb)
- Platform Size: 55" x 27"
- Ramp Height: 4"
- Weight: 460 lbs
Bar grate is ideal when load cleanliness is less important than drainage and debris shedding—common in landscaping or agricultural uses.
Summary of Key Specs
| Material | Capacity (lb) | Platform Sizes (W x D) | Ramp Height | Weight Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steel | 1300/1500 | 55" x 27", 38", 42" | 4"–7" | 460–535 lbs |
| Aluminum | 1300/1500 | 55" x 27", 38", 48" | 6" | 435–495 lbs |
| Grip Strut | 1300/1500 | 55" x 27" | 4" | 460 lbs |
| Bar Grate | 1300/1500 | 55" x 27" | 4" | 460 lbs |
Conclusion
The right platform choice for your pickup liftgate depends on your specific needs—whether that’s reducing weight with aluminum, enhancing traction with grip strut, or sticking to rugged steel for general hauling. With clearly defined specs and consistent platform sizing, Maxon makes it easy to select the right fit for your C2 liftgate pickup setup.
For long-term reliability and safety, always refer to your Maxon liftgate’s latest documentation or contact our team at LiftGateMe for more information.
For more information on Maxon pickup liftgates, read our Liftgate Guide for the Maxon C2 series or more general Pickup Truck Liftgate Guide.
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