JUNE 19, 2025

Waltco PTN Pickup Liftgate Operation and Safety Guide: Controls, Loads, and Lockouts

When using a Waltco PTN pickup liftgate, safety and correct operation go hand-in-hand. Designed for loads up to 1250 or 1600 lbs depending on the model (PTN12 or PTN16), this pickup lift gate is ideal for commercial pickups—if it's used the right way.

In this guide, we’ll walk through platform operation, best loading practices, how to properly use the cab shut-off switch, and the decal requirements to stay compliant and safe.

• Documentation Resources from Waltco
• Operation Guidance by the manuals
• Operator Safety Checklist
• What Not to Do with a PTN Pickup Lift gate
• Proper Loading Techniques and Weight Distribution
• Warnings: Unstable Loads, Rolling Carts, and Personnel
• Cab Shut-Off Switch: Prevent Unauthorized Use
• Required Safety Decals and Federal Compliance
• Dual Control Configuration (If Equipped)
• Electrical Safety – Battery & Grounding
• Lockout Best Practices for Worksite Use
• Conclusion: Keep it Safe, Keep it Smart

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

Operation Guidance by the manuals

Proper operation begins with understanding the liftgate’s control sequence and handling. As always, refer to your specific lift gate’s manuals for operations as they may differ from the below information.

To open the platform:

• Pull the platform away from the truck.
• Use the switch to raise the platform until it clears the travel plate.
• Once raised, rotate the platform into its open, horizontal position.

To store the platform:

• Raise the platform to a comfortable lifting height.
• Use the switch to raise it so the travel ears clear the drop in travel plate.
• Lower the ears fully into the travel plate.
• Manually fold the platform into its upright position.

⚠️ Always keep hands clear of pinch points and use caution when unfolding or folding the gate.

Operator Safety Checklist

Even the best equipment requires the right habits to stay safe. Operators should perform a quick walkaround before each use of the PTN liftgate.

Use the following safety checklist:

• ✅ Are all decals in place and easy to read?
• ✅ Does the platform clear the travel plate smoothly?
• ✅ Are load items placed close to the vehicle sill?
• ✅ Are there any signs of unusual noise, damage, or oil leaks?
• ✅ Is the cab shut-off switch working and set to OFF during transport?

Taking a few moments to verify these basics can prevent serious injuries and expensive repairs. Encourage routine checklists to reinforce workplace safety culture.

What Not to Do with a PTN Pickup Lift gate

While Waltco outlines clear instructions on how to operate the PTN liftgate, understanding what not to do is just as critical. These common mistakes can lead to accidents, voided warranties, or early equipment failure.

• ❌ Do not bypass or disable the cab shut-off switch
• ❌ Never operate the gate if any decals are damaged or missing
• ❌ Do not ride the platform with unstable or top-heavy loads
• ❌ Avoid using the liftgate as a ramp without authorized reinforcement
• ❌ Don’t delay chain replacements—replace every 15,000 cycles or 5 years, whichever comes first

Avoiding these actions isn’t just about compliance—it helps protect employees and ensures your equipment stays in service longer.

Proper Loading Techniques and Weight Distribution

A key factor in safe liftgate usage is how cargo is positioned and managed during loading and operation.

• Load near the vehicle sill: Place cargo as close to the vehicle body and the center of the platform as possible for stability.
• Avoid overloads: Do not exceed rated capacity—1250 lb for PTN12 and 1600 lb for PTN16—as shown on the liftgate’s capacity decal
• Keep platform level: When raising or lowering the platform with a load, ensure it is as level as possible.
• Fully lower platform when loading/unloading at ground level to minimize roll risk

Warnings: Unstable Loads, Rolling Carts, and Personnel

The PTN pickup truck lift gate is not designed for passenger lifting, though personnel may ride the platform in limited circumstances with extreme caution. Waltco outlines several hazards:

• Do not ride with unstable or unbalanced loads.
• Secure all wheeled carts to prevent movement during lifting.
• High center of gravity items must be braced to avoid tipping.
• Never use the liftgate if it shows signs of:
• Structural damage (cracked welds, bent parts)
• Jerky motion or uneven raising/lowering
• Unusual noises or vibrations

Operators must be trained and thoroughly familiar with the equipment and all decals before use.

Cab Shut-Off Switch: Prevent Unauthorized Use

For added security, Waltco provides an optional cab shut-off switch (Part #75089807), which disables liftgate operation when turned off. This switch is installed in the vehicle cab and wired through the fuse harness to the pump solenoid.

• Switch off when the vehicle is unattended or during non-use.
• Required safety decal (#75089267) must be affixed near the shut-off switch.

Using this lock-out feature reduces the risk of unauthorized or accidental liftgate activation—a best practice on work sites and during transport.

Required Safety Decals and Federal Compliance

Waltco mandates that all decals must be present and legible for safety and warranty validity. This also helps fulfill federal safety guidelines like FMVSS 571.125, which relate to cargo safety and roadside repair protocols.

Decal locations and part numbers include:

• Safety Instructions (P/N 80100850) — on curbside runner
• Operation Decal (P/N 80101577) — on curbside runner
• Stand Clear Decals (P/N 75089296) — two on runners, two on platform
• Warning Decal (P/N 80100829) — near circuit breaker
• Cab Shut-Off Decal (P/N 75089267) — near switch (if installed)

Decals come in kits: PTN12 (P/N 80002163), PTN16 (P/N 80002164). Additional decals can be ordered from Waltco.

Dual Control Configuration (If Equipped)

Some Waltco PTN liftgate installations include dual control switches for added convenience during loading operations. While helpful, they also introduce additional safety responsibilities for fleet managers and drivers.

If your PTN is configured with a second switch, Waltco requires a second Safety Instructions decal (P/N 80100850) to be placed near the auxiliary control point. This ensures that anyone operating the gate is reminded of key hazards and operational procedures from both locations. The dual control switch kit (P/N 80001329) is commonly installed in applications where operators may load from both sides or rear of the truck.

Always confirm both switches function properly and offer a clear line of sight to the platform during operation. This is critical for preventing accidents with rolling or shifting cargo.

Electrical Safety – Battery & Grounding

A liftgate’s performance starts with its electrical system. Improper wiring or poor grounding can lead to intermittent issues or total failure.

The PTN series connects directly to the vehicle battery via a 150A circuit breaker and 2-gauge battery cables. Waltco specifies that the ground cable be bolted directly to the vehicle frame. Before doing so, installers must grind the frame bare to ensure clean metal-to-metal contact. All terminals should be treated with dielectric grease, and cables should be secured with zip ties away from heat, sharp edges, and brake lines.

A strong electrical foundation ensures smooth platform movement and protects the hydraulic pump from damage due to voltage drops. Never operate the gate with loose or corroded connections.

Lockout Best Practices for Worksite Use

Lockout control is especially important for liftgates used in shared fleets or jobsite settings. The PTN’s optional cab shut-off switch is the first layer of defense, but combining it with physical lockout strategies adds further protection.

For improved control:

• Place a lockout placard at the rear of the vehicle
• Switch off the cab shut-off and remove ignition keys when unattended
• For added security, consider installing a keyed switch or coded lock system

These extra steps help prevent unauthorized operation and minimize the risk of injury or damage during off-hours or when equipment is parked onsite.

Conclusion: Keep it Safe, Keep it Smart

The Waltco PTN pickup liftgate is designed for dependable operation in a work truck environment—but only when used with attention to safety, loading, and controls. Always follow the step-by-step operating procedures, verify your cab shut-off is in working order, and inspect decal visibility regularly. This ensures not only the operator’s safety but keeps your equipment compliant and functional for the long haul.