APRIL 29, 2025

Waltco EM Liftgate Buyer’s Guide: EM25 vs EM33, Aluminum vs Steel, Cart Stops, and Extensions

Choosing the right liftgate for your box truck or trailer involves more than matching capacity. With the Waltco EM-Series, you’ll need to decide between models, platform materials, and several key configuration options.

Please note that because options do change frequently throughout the years, it’s best to consult your team at LiftGateMe for the most up-to-date set of options. We’ll also be able to ensure you find the best lift gate given your unique set of requirements.

• Documentation Resources from Waltco
• EM25 vs. EM33: What’s the Difference?
• Steel vs. Aluminum Platforms
• Cart Stops: Added Load Control for Wheeled Cargo
• Bed Extensions: Platform Support and Add-On Options
• Platform Depth and “Kick-Up” Adjustment
• Summary: Which Configuration Is Right for You?
• Conclusion

Documentation Resources from Waltco

Information in this article is sourced from Waltco’s manuals and technical guides. Always refer to your specific liftgate’s manuals for complete procedures and serial number, model, and year-specific details.

Reference PDFs used:

• EM-Series Install Manual
• 80126403 REV 09.pdf (EM/EMTC Parts Manual)
• PB-WALTCO-EM-EN-US 231201.pdf (EM-Series Brochure)
• EM-Series Owners Manual

EM25 vs. EM33: What’s the Difference?

The Waltco EM-Series includes two main model capacities:

→ Source: PB-WALTCO-EM-EN-US 231201.pdf
→ Model specification table, 80126403 REV 09.pdf, p. 5

Key Considerations:

• Both are mid-level Waltco tuck under liftgates with platforms that stow under the vehicle.
• Both support bed heights between 36" and 56".
• EM-33 is better suited for heavier palletized loads or frequent commercial deliveries.
• Twin-cylinder versions (EMTC) of the EM33 offer added lifting stability.

Steel vs. Aluminum Platforms

Waltco’s EM models offer platform assemblies in both materials, with several depth options. Waltco’s documentation distinguishes between wedge-style decks and those with cart stops.

Platform Types & Options:

→ Source: PM-782A and PM-791A, 80126403 REV 09.pdf, p. 14–17

Pros and Cons:

Steel Platforms

• Heavier and generally lower cost
• More durable in rough service environments
• Susceptible to rust if not galvanized

Aluminum Platforms

• Lightweight: ideal for improving fuel efficiency and payload
• Corrosion-resistant: better for snowbelt or coastal fleets
• Supports cart stop options for wheeled loads

“Upgrade to an Aluminum Platform for weight savings and to protect against rust and corrosion.” — PB-WALTCO-EM-EN-US 231201.pdf

Cart Stops: Added Load Control for Wheeled Cargo

Cart stops help prevent wheeled cargo—like rolling bins or carts—from sliding off the platform during loading or unloading. They’re only available on specific aluminum platform assemblies and come in curbside and streetside configurations.

→ Source: PM-791A, 80126403 REV 09.pdf, p. 17

Features:

• Each side has its own spring-loaded cart stop
• Requires pre-installed mounting brackets
• Can be purchased in kits or installed on compatible platform assemblies
• Several part numbers exist depending on platform size and version

⚠️ Important: Cart stop assemblies cannot be added to an existing platform that wasn’t originally built to accept them. The entire flip platform with cart stops must be ordered as a complete unit from Waltco.

If you’re purchasing a new lift gate or platform and require cart stops, be sure to request a pre-configured platform with the correct mounting points and hardware.

Bed Extensions: Platform Support and Add-On Options

Waltco offers multiple bed extension types for the EM-Series. These are critical for trucks with higher frame heights or when extra rear deck support is required.

→ Source: PM-799A, 80126403 REV 09.pdf, p. 19–21
→ Install Manual, p. 9–13, 53–54

Options Include:

Walk Ramp Notching Instructions:

• Measure hook width and mark bed extension
• Notch cut must align with ramp hooks for flush fit
   → Install Manual, p. 35

Platform Depth and “Kick-Up” Adjustment

Waltco’s EM-Series lets you fine-tune the platform angle using stop blocks and mounting dimensions. Stop blocks are small components that help adjust for deflection—allowing you to set the platform so that when it’s under load, it levels out correctly. This adjustment is key to ensuring proper ground contact without dragging or over-tilting at bed height.

→ Source: Install Manual, p. 10, 13–14; PM-798, 80126403 REV 09.pdf

Platform Depths Available:

• 44" Wedge
• 50" Wedge
• 46+4"
• 40+4"

Each depth uses different stop block kits based on your truck’s bed height and required A-dimension (distance from bed to mount tube). Proper stop block selection ensures correct “kick-up” at rest.

“The larger the stop block hole spacing, the more tilt up the platform will achieve at bed height.” — PM-798, 80126403 REV 09.pdf, p. 13

Summary: Which Configuration Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary matrix to help decide:

Each decision point affects not just performance but also install time, weight distribution, and long-term maintenance.

Conclusion

The Waltco EM-Series offers a range of configurations designed to meet real-world delivery needs. Whether you're selecting between the EM-25 and EM-33, or deciding on platform materials and extensions, it's essential to start with accurate specs from the manufacturer.

All information in this guide comes directly from Waltco’s official manuals and brochures—so you can make an informed, warranty-safe decision without guesswork.

Need help cross-referencing part numbers or planning your install? Drop us a line, and we’ll connect you with the right liftgate parts and documentation.