How to Operate a Tailgate Lift
Learn the correct steps to operate the tailgate lift safely and avoid damage or injury.
How to Operate a Tailgate Lift
Watch this quick walkthrough before using the tailgate lift — covers setup, safe operation, loading, and how to stow it away when you’re done.
Pre-Operation Checklist
Always park on a flat, stable surface before using the lift. Engage the handbrake and put the vehicle in Park.
Fully open both rear doors of the truck and secure them open before unfolding the tailgate platform.
Unhook the safety chains that hold the platform in the stowed position before attempting to lower it.
For frequent use (6+ lifts), keep the engine running to prevent draining the truck’s battery.
Maximum lift capacity is 500 kg. Never exceed this limit on both raising and lowering operations.
The tailgate lift is not a passenger lift. Never allow anyone to ride on the platform at any time.
Step-by-Step Operation
- 1 Turn on the isolating switch Locate the power switch on the control unit and turn it to the ON position to activate the hydraulic system.
- 2 Press DOWN to lower Press the DOWN button until the platform drops to approximately 100mm above the ground, then unfold the platform to a horizontal position. Do not let it fall — lower it carefully.
- 3 Lower fully to ground level Continue pressing DOWN until the platform rests flat on the ground, ready to load your item onto it.
- 4 Load your item centrally Place your item as close to the centre of the platform as possible. Keep loads stable before pressing any buttons.
- 5 Press RAISE to lift Stand to the side — never stand under or on the platform. Press RAISE and the hydraulic system will smoothly lift your item up to container floor level.
- 6 Roll item into the truck Once at container height, slide or roll your item inside. Secure it before using the lift again.
Tailgate Lift Specs
Safety Rules
- Always stand to the side when operating — never underneath
- Centre your load on the platform before lifting
- Never exceed the 500 kg weight limit
- Keep engine running during frequent or heavy use
- Keep bystanders clear of the platform at all times
Loading Like a Pro
- 1 Use a trolley for heavy items Combine the tailgate lift with an Abel hand trolley — wheel your item onto the platform and let the lift do the heavy work.
- 2 One item at a time Load and lift one item at a time. Stacking multiple heavy items on the platform at once risks exceeding the 500 kg limit.
- 3 Secure before moving Once inside the truck, use ropes or straps through the internal tie-down hooks before using the lift again or driving off.
- 4 Heavy items first Load heavy items (fridges, washing machines) first and push them to the front of the box, so lighter boxes can go on top.
Stowing Away After Use
- Raise platform to approx. 800mm above the ground
- Fold the outer platform section back onto the inner section
- Press DOWN to lower the folded platform just above the ground
- Swing platform against the helper arm, then press RAISE to fold away
- Re-attach the safety chains and turn the isolating switch OFF
Pair These With Your Tailgate Lift
Wheel heavy items directly onto the platform — the perfect companion for the tailgate lift.
Secure every item inside the truck box after lifting to prevent shifting on the road.
Wrap furniture before placing on the platform to protect against scratches and impact.
Sturdy boxes stack neatly on the platform — load multiple at once up to the 500 kg limit.
For tradies — carry long items on top while using the lift for heavy equipment below.
Navigate to your destination confidently so you can focus on the move, not the directions.