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JUNE 18, 2025

Waltco PTN Pickup Liftgate Model Comparison & Parts Compatibility Guide: Specs, Platforms, and Replacement Support

Whether you’re adding a liftgate to a pickup truck or trying to identify the right replacement parts for your fleet, understanding the differences between Waltco’s PTN12 and PTN16 models is essential. This guide offers a 100% verified breakdown of platform sizes, steel vs. aluminum deck options, decal requirements, and mounting considerations—directly from Waltco’s official documentation.

Let’s take a deeper look into how these pickup truck liftgate models compare and what you’ll need to know when selecting parts or planning installations.

• Documentation Resources from Waltco
• PTN12 vs PTN16: Model Overview and Capacity Comparison
• Platform Sizes and Material Options
• H-Frame and Mounting Differences: Standard vs. Above-Floor Units
• Platform Adjustment and Leveling Best Practices
• What Happens If You Use the Wrong Platform
• Troubleshooting Common Platform Part Replacements
• Decal Kits for Compliance and Safety
• Using the Specification Tag for Parts Matching
• Final Thoughts

Documentation Resources from Waltco

Information in this article is sourced from Waltco’s PTN 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:

• Waltco PTN Installation Manual
• Waltco PTN Parts Manual
• Waltco PTN Owner’s Manual

PTN12 vs PTN16: Model Overview and Capacity Comparison

Waltco’s PTN liftgate series is specifically designed for pickup trucks, offering two core models:

• PTN12: Rated for 1,250 lbs
• PTN16: Rated for 1,600 lbs

Both use a rail-type lifting mechanism and are compatible with a variety of platform configurations. Designed for durability and consistent performance, these lift gates for pickup trucks are commonly installed on light-duty commercial vehicles used for parcel delivery, service fleets, and contractor applications.

To confirm which model you’re working with, always refer to the specification tag, which lists the model number, capacity, and serial number. This tag is critical for ordering parts, filing warranty claims, and ensuring compliance.

Platform Sizes and Material Options

Choosing the correct platform for your pickup liftgate depends on the model and your operational needs. Waltco offers both steel and aluminum platform assemblies in a variety of widths.

Steel Platform Options

Aluminum Platform Options

Steel platforms offer robust strength and durability, while aluminum decks reduce weight and provide corrosion resistance. Both platform types come fully assembled with torsion bars, pins, and hardware.

H-Frame and Mounting Differences: Standard vs. Above-Floor Units

Waltco’s pickup truck liftgate models include two mounting configurations: Standard and Above-Floor (AF). These setups determine platform alignment, above-bed travel, and mounting bracket compatibility.

Standard PTN units use H-frame #45112578, while Above-Floor units require #45112579. The AF model allows the platform to lift approximately 9 inches above the bed, which is ideal when aligning with docks or other raised surfaces.

Choosing the correct frame type ensures smooth operation and proper clearance during lifting and storage cycles. It also helps prevent premature wear or misalignment of the platform.

Platform Adjustment and Leveling Best Practices

Proper platform leveling is crucial for safe cargo loading and reliable function. Waltco outlines specific guidance depending on the model configuration.

If you're working with a standard PTN by Waltco, the platform should align flush with the top of the crossbeam box when raised. If the lift is an Above-Floor model, it may travel above that height. Adjustments are made via the lifting chains—specifically at the anchor bolts. Waltco warns to never adjust the anchor nut to within 3/8" of the bolt’s end and to never place your body beneath the platform during adjustments.

Maintaining proper alignment ensures consistent operation and reduces the risk of torsion bar stress or chain misalignment over time.

What Happens If You Use the Wrong Platform

Using an incorrect platform can lead to damage, unsafe lifting conditions, or even void your warranty. Some platforms—such as the 42x57+6 steel or 44x57+8 aluminum options—are intended only for the PTN16 and should never be installed on a PTN12 due to load capacity limits.

Fitting an oversized deck on your PTN pickup lift gate can also damage the torsion bar system, cause uneven loading, and increase the risk of control failure. In addition, using incorrect platform components may leave your liftgate out of compliance with FMVSS 571.125 if the safety decals do not match the actual configuration.

For best results, always confirm the correct platform size and part number with the serial number and model listed on your specification tag.

Troubleshooting Common Platform Part Replacements

Even with routine care, wear-and-tear on platform components is expected. Keeping commonly replaced parts on hand can minimize downtime.

Key parts include:

• Torsion Bar (#43020037): Provides platform counterbalance and smooth operation
• Hinge Pin (#45112591 or #45112606): Essential for ramp and deck movement
• Ramp Stop (#45112533): Prevents over-extension and impact damage
• Grease Zerk (#75089306): Enables proper lubrication at hinge joints

These parts are standard across many platform sizes and materials. Replacing them proactively during regular maintenance cycles ensures longer service life and safer operation.

Decal Kits for Compliance and Safety

Waltco mandates that all decals be present and legible to maintain warranty coverage. Decals are critical not just for compliance, but for operator safety.

Additional decals include:

• Capacity Label: 80100266 (PTN12), 80100252 (PTN16)
• Safety Instructions: 80100850
• Warning Labels for circuit breakers, cab shutoff switch, and runners

If you have a dual control or remote switch setup, Waltco requires a second safety instruction decal placed near the secondary controls.

Using the Specification Tag for Parts Matching

Every PTN liftgate includes a specification tag, which acts as your go-to reference for ordering replacement parts, verifying platform compatibility, and confirming decal requirements. The tag contains the:

• Model number
• Serial number
• Platform size
• Manufacturing date

To prevent delays or incorrect part shipments, Waltco requires this information for every parts inquiry.

Final Thoughts

Whether you need to purchase a new pickup truck liftgate or maintain an existing unit, the Waltco PTN12 and PTN16 each require a careful approach to platform selection, decal compliance, and mounting configuration. From choosing between steel and aluminum decks to knowing the correct torsion bar or decal kit, every detail impacts safety and long-term reliability.

For help identifying your current setup or sourcing replacement parts, always consult your specification tag—and don't hesitate to contact Waltco or, contact LiftGateMe for liftgate parts, new gates, and guidance.