When it comes to maintaining a fleet of vehicles, it’s easy to focus on the obvious components like engines, brakes, and tires. But one often-overlooked aspect of truck upkeep is the liftgate. If your business relies on liftgates for loading and unloading, neglecting them could lead to unnecessary downtime, costly repairs, and even safety risks. That’s where preventative maintenance comes in. So, what exactly is preventative maintenance for liftgates, why is it important, and how often should it be done? Let’s break it down.

What is Preventative Liftgate Maintenance? 

Preventative liftgate maintenance involves regularly inspecting, cleaning, lubricating, and testing the liftgate to ensure that it functions correctly and remains in good condition. Much like routine maintenance for a vehicle’s engine or transmission, preventative liftgate care helps avoid breakdowns and keeps the equipment operating at peak efficiency.

This process typically includes:

• Inspecting the liftgate for signs of wear and tear (e.g., rust, cracks, or loose components).

• Lubricating the moving parts, such as hinges, pins, and the hydraulic system, to ensure smooth operation.

• Testing the electrical and hydraulic systems to ensure they’re functioning properly.

• Checking the load capacity and making sure safety mechanisms, like locks, secondary power units, brakes and warning lights, are working.

• Cleaning debris from critical areas to prevent buildup, which could impair function or damage components.

By catching small issues early, preventative maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your liftgate and prevent more expensive repairs down the road.

Why is Preventative Maintenance Important?

You might be wondering: “Isn’t my liftgate just fine until it breaks?” Well, here are a few reasons why regular maintenance is essential:

1. Minimize Downtime

A malfunctioning liftgate can cause significant delays in your operation. If your business relies on timely deliveries or efficient loading/unloading, a broken liftgate can quickly become a major headache. Preventative maintenance ensures that minor issues are fixed before they turn into costly failures.

 2. Safety First

Liftgates are heavy-duty pieces of equipment that are used frequently under stressful conditions. If they aren’t properly maintained, parts can fail at the worst possible moment—such as while loading or unloading a heavy load. This could lead to accidents or injuries. Regular checks help ensure that safety mechanisms are in place and that everything is functioning as it should.

 3. Save Money in the Long Run

While preventative maintenance does require an upfront investment, it ultimately saves you money. Replacing a worn-out liftgate or fixing a major hydraulic failure can cost thousands. Routine maintenance helps prevent these large repairs by addressing minor issues before they escalate into major ones.

 4. Extend Equipment Lifespan

Liftgates are not cheap, so you want to get the most use out of them. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of the liftgate, meaning you’ll get more years of reliable service before needing to replace it.

 5. Maintain Operational Efficiency

Liftgates that are well-maintained operate smoothly and efficiently. This means faster loading and unloading times, reducing the overall time spent on each delivery or pickup, and improving the efficiency of your entire operation.

How Often Should I Have Preventative Maintenance?

The frequency of preventative maintenance on your liftgate depends on several factors, including the type of liftgate, how often it’s used, and the operating environment (e.g., extreme temperatures, dirty conditions, or rough handling). However, a general guideline is: 

• Monthly Checks: For liftgates in daily use, it’s a good idea to perform a basic visual inspection and functionality test at least once a month. Look for visible damage, check that the liftgate opens and closes smoothly, and listen for any unusual noises. If anything seems off, it’s best to address it right away. 

• Quarterly Maintenance: Every three months, schedule a more thorough inspection with Texas Hydraulic that includes lubricating moving parts, checking the hydraulic system, inspecting the wiring, and ensuring that all safety features are functional.  

• Annual Servicing: At least once a year, have a professional technician perform a comprehensive inspection. This will include deep checks of the hydraulic system, electrical components, structural integrity, and load-bearing capacity. A full-service inspection can catch potential problems before they become costly repairs.

If your liftgate is used in harsh conditions—such as in colder climates, heavy-duty work environments, or frequent deliveries—more frequent maintenance might be necessary. In these cases, it’s wise to consult your manufacturer’s recommendations or your technician for advice on a customized maintenance schedule.

In Conclusion 

Preventative maintenance for liftgates might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about fleet management, but it’s absolutely essential for keeping your operations running smoothly, safely, and cost-effectively. By staying proactive with maintenance, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns, extend the lifespan of your liftgates, and ensure that your team has the equipment they need to do their jobs efficiently.

Remember: when it comes to liftgates, a little regular care goes a long way! Schedule your next PM today!