We have, in recent months, focused a bit on areas where traditional side loaders still have a significant role in beverage delivery operations. However, by and large, the overall movement continues to be toward rear-load bulk delivery. And that means we’re due for an update on those mechanical workhorses of rear-load vehicles: liftgates.

Anthony Liftgates

Anthony’s MRT-XL model features an extra-large platform with up to an 86-inch-by-96-inch loading area, designed for large cargo and for easy opening and closing. It’s available with either a fixed ramp or pivoting end ramp and stows at bed height or fully raised. Made in the USA, the model is available with an optional galvanized finish.

Additionally, Anthony introduced the Smart Control, which combines the benefits of a control switch, a cutoff switch, a battery gauge and a cycle counter in a single control. It features an up-down control switch for simple liftgate operation, a low-battery warning light that alerts the driver of low voltage to help avoid downtime from a dead battery, a hidden activation button and timed shutoff to help prevent unauthorized use and a cycle counter that provides an easy-to-read maintenance reminder.

Maxon

Maxon’s MXT-25 and MXT-33 Tuk-A-Way liftgates are available in low-bed height ranges of 38 inches to 46 inches, and feature 2,500- and 3,300-pound lifting capacities, respectively. The company says the twin-cylinder, mid-arm design results in greater performance and stability on vehicles with a low-bed-height chassis. The MXT models feature 48-inch-by-80-inch wedge-type steel, steel/aluminum or all-aluminum platforms with optional dual cart stops. A bolt-on extension plate and steps, hydraulic locking and grease fittings at all critical rotation points all come standard. Additionally, all steel components come hot-dip galvanized. Optional features include hand-held control, dual control, cab cut-off switch, the Max ECU Electrical Control Unit, license plate mount kit and multiple step options, among others.

Leyman Liftgate

The LHLP 2500 and LHLP 3500 Hide-A-Way Tuckunder lifts from Leyman support capacities ranges of 2,500 and 3,500 pounds, respectively, on 80-inch-wide-by-60-inch-deep platforms, for vehicle widths ranging from 96 inches to 102 inches. Standard features on the LHLP 2500 and 3500 models include power down capability, potted toggle switch master control, greased pivots at platform, automatic mechanical tilt, a bolt-on powerpack enclosure that holds the pump and motor, and more. For larger weight capacities, Leyman also offers the LHLP 4500 and 5500 Hide-A-Way Tuckunder lifts, supporting 4,500 and 5,000 pounds, respectively.

Palfinger

Last summer, Palfinger unveiled the new PTV Liftgate, which, it says, features a complete, dynamic redesign based on customer feedback, improving structure, performance, ease of use, installation and maintenance. Among the PTV’s key features are aluminum platforms for increased payloads, E-coat corrosion protection, telematics-ready smart controls, standardized dimensions and a common parts design for increased uptime and what the company calls a “clean, modern appearance.” Enhancements include a bolt-on bracket design, battery box improvements and a more robust hydraulic system.

Purkeys

Purkeys doesn’t supply liftgates, per se, but it does offer charging systems specifically for liftgates. The systems improve the charging of liftgate batteries by using a DC/DC converter to boost the voltage for optimal charging. The DC/DC converter also compensates for temperature, as well as for voltage drop and provides optimal voltage for remotely located liftgate batteries.