Types of Tail Lifts

There are various types of tail lifts available on the market. The differences in lifting capacity, functionality, and operational cycle time mean that some types of tail lifts are better suited for specific uses. The 5 main types of tail lifts are:

  • Column tail lifts
  • Rear frame column tail lifts
  • Tuckaway tail lifts
  • Cantilever tail lifts
  • Retractable tail lifts

Column lifts

Column tail lifts are popular with multi-drop distribution vehicles such as home delivery trucks because they are quick to operate. The tail lift is mounted onto the back of the vehicle via a “H” frame with a flat platform that extends at a 90-degree angle from the frame. The platform, which is the lifts, runs vertically along the tracks.

The advantage of using a column tail lift is that it can lift higher than the vehicle’s bed level which is handy for vehicles with beds that are not the standard dock height.

However, since the lift platform only extends at a 90-degree angle, the lift may not sit flush on even ground which can make loading and offloading more complicated.

Rear frame column lifts

Rear frame column tail lifts such as the DEL FC500 incorporate the tail lift with a top door to create an all-in-one solution. This eliminates the need for a shutter door on the vehicle which reduces the overall weight of the vehicle, maximises vehicle payload, and improves fuel economy.

Otherwise, the tail lift platform operates similarly to the standard column lifts described above.

Tuckaway lifts

Tuckaway or tuck-under tail lifts have a lifting platform that folds and is stored underneath the vehicle’s bed.

This allows easy access to the trailer via the rear closure if the tail lift is not always needed. For example, delivery drivers may not always need to offload big items at a stop so having the tail lift out of the way would give quick and easy access to the trailer.

Cantilever lifts

Cantilever tail lifts are mounted on the chassis of the vehicle with hydraulic rams on the hinges. This makes it ideal for handling heavier weights compared to Column or Tuckaway tail lifts. The hinges also allow the tail lift to tilt so the platform can also be used as a ramp instead of a lift.

The platform of the cantilever tail lift also acts of the rear door of the vehicle. This eliminates the need for standard fitted doors or shutters thereby reducing the vehicle’s overall weight.

However, the operational cycle of a cantilever tail lift is slower compared to Column or Tuckaway lifts. So, it’s best suited for larger deliveries with fewer drop-offs.

Retractable lifts

On retractable tail lifts, the lift is usually one solid platform that extends horizontally. Like cantilever lifts, it’s mounted on the chassis of the vehicle making it ideal for lifting heavy loads.

However, it operates more like a tuckaway lift in that it slides under the bed of the vehicle when not in use.

Therefore, retractable tail lifts have operational advantages of both cantilever and column lifts which makes this type of tail lifts ideal for operating in loading docks handling heavier loads.

 

Get tail lift parts from Part-Serv

Part-Serv supplies a range of tail lift parts including valves and coils, power pack parts, columns and sliders, hoses, decals, and so much more!

Approved suppliers of tail lift parts for all manufacturers of tail lifts.