Section 4 – Pre-Operation Information ................................. 9
Section 5 – Control Switch Operation ................................... 9
Section 6 – Raising or Lowering the Platform ..................... 10
Introduction
This manual provides you with the information necessary for
the care, maintenance, inspection, and safe operation of the
SAF-HOLLAND TL and TG Series Liftgate.
NOTE: For liftgate components replacement, contact
SAF-HOLLAND Customer Service at:
U.S. 888-396-6501
Canada 800-503-9847
Warranty
Refer to the complete warranty for the country in which
the product will be used. A copy of the warranty certificate
is included with the product as well as on the SAF-HOLLAND
website (www.safholland.us and www.safholland.ca). It may
also be ordered directly from SAF-HOLLAND; the address is
shown on the back cover.
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
Contents Page
Section 7 – Unfolding the Platform .................................... 11
product. Keep this manual in a safe
location for future reference.
Failure to follow the instructions and
safety precautions in this manual can
result in death or serious injury.
Throughout this manual, you will notice the terms
“NOTE,” “IMPORTANT,” “CAUTION,” and “WARNING”
followed by useful product information. So that you may
better understand the manual, those terms are as follows:
NOTE: Includes additional information to enable
accurate and easy performance of procedures.
IMPORTANT: Includes additional information that if
not followed could lead to hindered
product performance.
You must read and understand all of the safety procedures presented
in this manual before operating or starting any work on the liftgate.
NOTE: In the United States, workshop safety requirements
are defined by federal and/or state Occupational
Safety and Health Act. Equivalent laws may exist
in other countries. This manual is written based
on the assumption that OSHA or other applicable
employee safety regulations are followed by the
location where work is performed.
Proper tools must be used to perform the maintenance and
repair procedures described in this manual. Many of these
procedures may require special tools.
Used without the safety alert symbol,
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in
property damage.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in minor
or moderate injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
3
General Safety Precautions
1. General Safety Precautions
Read and observe all Warning and Caution hazard alert messages
in this publication. They provide information that can help
prevent serious personal injury, damage to components, or both.
Please observe the following safety instructions in order
to maintain the operational and road safety of your
SAF-HOLLAND Liftgate:
1. You must be fully trained on the capabilities and the limitations
of this equipment to operate the equipment properly.
2. When operating the liftgate, always stand to one side of
the platform. Make sure that the area is clear of obstacles,
other personnel, fingers, arms, hands, legs, and/or feet.
Failure to keep area near your liftgate
clear could create a crush and/or pinch
hazard which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT exceed liftgate capacity when
raising or lowering platform.
Failure to avoid overloading the liftgate
may result in platform failure which,
if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
3. Make sure liftgate is in stowed position when not in use.
4. NEVER step off moving equipment. Only step off the
platform when it is in contact with the ground or at deck
height when entering the vehicle.
Failure to lower the platform to ground
level before stepping on or off platform
could result in mild to moderate injury.
We highly recommend the use of only SAF-HOLLAND
Original Parts.
A list of SAF-HOLLAND Technical Support locations to
supply SAF-HOLLAND Original Parts can be found at
www.safholland.us or by contacting SAF-HOLLAND
Customer Service at U.S. 1-888-396-6501 or Canada
1-800-503-9847.
Servicing Safety Precautions
1. DO NOT work underneath the liftgate without properly
supporting the raised platform and liftframe in
accordance with workplace safety requirements.
2. Never strike any part of the liftgate with a steel hammer.
3. Safety protection should always be worn as protection
from pressurized fluid spray, flying debris, and other
airborne matter when working with tools, power tools,
welding equipment, and dangerous chemicals.
NOTE: Never operate the liftgate with the vehicle running
unless instructed to by this manual for specific
service items.
Failure to turn off vehicle motor before
commencing work could allow vehicle to
move which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
4. While servicing or repairing equipment, always disconnect
the electrical power to the pump motor and ensure that
the platform and liftframe is supported on the ground or
secured in the travel lugs.
5. Check for slippery surfaces before stepping off the
liftgate platform.
6. NEVER jump off the liftgate.
7. In an emergency situation, release the control switch to
stop the liftgate operation.
8. SAF-HOLLAND Liftgates require routine service, inspection,
and maintenance in order to maintain optimum performance,
proper operation, and to identify normal wear.
Failure to properly engage the vehicle
parking brake prior to operating or
maintaining liftgate may allow vehicle
movement which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
5. When welding is required, ensure that the battery ground
cable is disconnected and that all electrical equipment is
completely electrically isolated before welding is initiated
(Figure 1).
6. Before starting any welding, ensure that the area to be
repaired is cleaned of debris and combustible material.
Have a charged fire extinguisher available and know
how to use it.
7. When searching for an oil leak, wear work gloves and
use a piece of cardboard or wood as a detector. Wear a
safety face shield or goggles for eye protection. NEVER
use your bare hands to check for fluid leaks (Figure 2).
Failure to properly protect yourself when
searching for hydraulic leaks could result
in fluid injection into the skin which,
if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
8. Pressure can remain in a hydraulic system after the power
source and pump have been shut down. Ensure that there
is no pressure in any of the hydraulic cylinders or hoses
before performing work on components, or disconnecting
any hoses (Figure 3).
Failure to depressurize the hydraulic
system could result in fluid injection into
the skin which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Figure 1
Figure 2
NOTE: Batteries contain acid that can burn and they
also produce gas that can explode, follow battery
manufacturers’ provided safety instructions when
working on your battery.
Failure to follow manufacturers’ safety
instructions when handling batteries may
result in explosion which, if not avoided,
could result in minor to moderate injury.
9. Inspect the equipment daily for potential fire hazards and
make any necessary repairs immediately.
10. Inspect electrical wiring and connections, and hydraulic
hose runs to ensure they are secure and not rubbing
against other components.
11. Clean up any excess grease, oil accumulation and spillage
immediately. Use only non-flammable products for cleaning
the liftgate or components.
Each SAF-HOLLAND liftgate has a stamped metal tag that
identifies the liftgate model and serial number (Figure 4).
This tag is attached to the front roadside of the main tube
(Figure 5). In order to properly identify your HOLLAND
liftgate and its components when communicating with
SAF-HOLLAND or your dealer, please record the model, serial
numbers, dealer, and purcahse date and refer to them when
ordering replacement parts.
Model Number
TLV 27 48
Platform Size
48" long
Capacity
2,750 lbs.
Figure 4
Figure 5
MODEL NUMBER
XXXXXXXXXX-XXXX
SERIAL NUMBER
XXXXX
Model
Serial Number after November 1, 2008
98 02 312 0123
Sequence Number
Day of Year
Year Code
Facility Code
Equipment Model No.: _______________________________
Serial No.: _________________________________________
IMPORTANT: All decals must be installed, maintained,
and kept visible and legible.
Prior to placing the vehicle into service, inspect all decals
listed below. Ensure the decals are in the correct location and
are legible (Figures 6 and 7). Replace any damaged and/or
missing decals.
It is the responsibility of the end user to periodically inspect
all decals and ensure that they are clean and completely
legible. If any decals are missing, loose, damaged, or difficult
to read, contact SAF-HOLLAND Customer Service to order
replacements immediately.
1. Ensure the platform is clear of obstacles and other personnel.
2. Inspect liftgate for any damage, bruised paint or
bent components.
3. Inspect electrical cables and hydraulic hoses, repair or
secure as necessary.
Failure to repair and/or replace worn or
damaged components before use could
result in liftgate failure which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
4. Read and understand the decals referenced in Section 3.
5. Vehicle must be on flat, level ground before operating liftgate.
6. Ensure that the vehicle parking brake is securely engaged.
5. Control Station Switch Operation
To operate the liftgate, use the toggle switch on the control
station located at the rear of the vehicle (Figure 8).
This toggle switch enables the operator to raise and lower the
liftgate platform (Figure 9).
Figure 8
REAR OF VEHICLE
CONTROL
STATION
Figure 9
Failure to keep clear of the moving liftgate
could create a crush and/or pinch hazard
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
NOTE: If the Operator is required to ride the liftgate,
observe and familiarize yourself with the liftgate
operation, decals and manuals. Ensure stable
footing at all times. The switch only allows the
operator to raise or lower the platform.
Failure to secure load prior to operating
platform could allow load to shift and
strike operator which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
IMPORTANT: This unit is intended for loading and
unloading cargo only. If personnel are
required to ride the liftgate, familiarize
yourself with this liftgate manual.
Failure to ensure stable footing while
riding the liftgate could allow the
operator to fall which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
6.1 Raising the Platform
1. Stand to the side of the vehicle and clear of the platform,
push the control station toggle switch in the UP direction
(Figure 10).
NOTE: The toggle switch must remain engaged for the
platform to continue moving upward.
2. To stop the platform from moving upward, release the
toggle switch.
Figure 10
CONTROL STATION
UP
TOGGLE SWITCH
Figure 11
CONTROL STATION
6.2 Lowering the Platform
1. Stand to the side of the vehicle and clear of the platform,
push the control station toggle in the DOWN direction
(Figure 11).
NOTE: The toggle switch must remain engaged for the
platform to continue moving downward.
2. To stop the platform from moving downward, release the
toggle switch.
1. Stand clear of the liftgate, and using the control station,
raise the stowed platform to relieve any tension on the
travel chain (Figure 12).
2. Disengage the travel latch chain hook from the platform
(Figure 13).
3. With the travel chain clear, lower the unit until the
liftgate firmly contacts the ground.
Failure to ensure stable footing while
engaging the foot pedal could result
in slipping which, if not avoided, could
result in minor or moderate injury.
4. Grasp the platform to rotate it down. As the platform
starts to rotate, step back to allow the platform to fall
into a horizontal position (Figure 14).
Failure to keep feet clear of platform
during operation could create a crush
and/or pinch hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
5. While standing clear and to the side grasp the flip
over section and rotate it allowing it to fall into a
horizontal position.
Failure to keep load within platform edge
could create a crush hazard which, if not
avoided, may result in damage to the load.
Failure to keep loads stable and within
design capacity could result in falling objects
or component failure which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
When riding the platform, failure to keep
feet within front edge of platform could
create a crush hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
8.1 Loading from the Ground
1. Using the control station, open the platform from the
stowed position and lower it to the ground (Refer to
Sections 6 and 7).
IMPORTANT: Never operate a fork lift truck on or over
the platform.
Failure to remove fork lift trucks from
the liftgate platform area could cause
component failure which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
2. Load the platform by placing the load center as close to the
center of the platform as possible and placing the heaviest
part of the load to the front of the platform (Figure 15).
3. Using the control station toggle switch at the rear of the
vehicle, raise the platform to deck height and unload
(Figure 16). If required, repeat procedures to continue
with additional loads.
4. When the liftgate has been unloaded, lower and stow the
platform (Refer to Sections 6 and 9).
Figure 15
PLACE LOAD
ON CENTER
OF PLATFORM
FRONT OF
PLATFORM
Figure 16
DECK HEIGHT
8.2 Loading from the Vehicle
1. Using the control station, open and raise the platform to
deck height (Refer to Sections 6 and 7).
2. Load the platform by placing the load center as close to the
center of the platform as possible and placing the heaviest
part of the load to the front of the platform (Figure 17).
IMPORTANT: Never operate a fork lift truck on or over
the platform.
Failure to remove fork lift trucks from
the liftgate platform area could cause
component failure which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
3. Using the control station toggle switch on the rear of the
vehicle, lower the platform to the ground.
4. When the liftgate has been unloaded, stow the platform
(Refer to Section 9).
1. Lower the platform to below waist level, lift the end of
the flipover section, rotating it about the pivot bolts and
allow the flipover to fall onto the platform (Figure 18).
Failure to keep feet clear of platform
during operation could create a crush
and/or pinch hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
2. Lower the platform to the ground and rotate the inner
platform allowing it to rest against the platform roller
openers (Figure 19).
3. Stand clear and using the control station, raise the
platform until the platform is in fully raised position.
NOTE: When the liftgate is fully retracted to the stored
position, release the control switch.
4. Position the travel latch chain hook into the latch hook
IMPORTANT: Keep dirt, water, and other contaminants
from entering the hydraulic system; clean
the area to prevent contamination of the
hydraulic fluid and use a clean funnel with
a fine screen mesh.
1. Set the vehicle parking brake.
2. Using the control station, put the platform in the down
and open position (Figure 21).
3. Remove the filler cap and add recommended hydraulic
fluid to pump reservoir. Check that the hydraulic fluid is
at the proper fill level, half full (Figure 22).
IMPORTANT: Always use the correct grade of hydraulic
fluid. Refer to the chart below for
recommended hydraulic fluid or contact
your SAF-HOLLAND representative.
1. Daily or before each trip, inspect the liftgate for damage
to mounting assemblies, mechanical parts, and hydraulic
components and hoses. Any noticeable defects must be
repaired prior to operation to avoid damage and possible
injury. Inspect and verify the condition of the following
key components:
• Torsion springs – are not broken or rusted
• Stowage lock mechanism – is in working order
• Attaching plates – no bends and/or cracked welds
are present
• Deck extension – no cracked welds are present
• Pivot points – no pin movement caused by excessive wear
• Pivot points – all pins and bushings are present and in
good working order
• Shackles – are in proper orientation and proper
platform presentation
• Platform – no bends are present
• Platform – no weld cracks are present
• Flipover – no bends are present
• Flipover – no weld cracks are present
• Control switch – is in properly operational
• Control switch – no damage is present
• Control switch – have no noticeable corrosion
• Hydraulic hoses – have no leaks
• Hydraulic hoses – are secured properly
• Hydraulic hoses – no rub or abrasion marks are present
• Cylinders – have no leaks
• Cylinders – no damage is present
2. Inspect and replace any decals that have been removed
or have become illegible.
11.2 Monthly Inspection
1. Every 1000 cycles or 30 days, whichever occurs first, lubricate
all pivot points using EP2 chassis grease. In severe winter
conditions, it may be necessary to lubricate more frequently.
2. Lubricate linkage pivot points with light spray lubricant.
3. Check oil level in reservoir (1/2" [13 mm] from top of
tank with cylinders retracted).
4. Verify electrical connections, coat with non aerosol
dielectric grease or equivalent.
Routine Service and Inspection
2. Lubricate linkage pivot points with light spray lubricant.
3. Inspect all decals. Replace any decals that are not clearly
visible or legible.
11.4 Alternate Year Inspection
1. Every 24,000 cycles or two (2) years, whichever occurs
first, inspect all pivot points for wear. Replace any pins
or parts that show signs of wear.
2. Replace any worn hydraulic hoses, leaking fittings or
leaking cylinders.
IMPORTANT: Review General Safety Precautions before
working on hydraulic or electrical components.
11.5 Monthly Hydraulic and Electrical Inspection
1. Inspect and remove the coil from the valve and look for signs of
corrosion. If corrosion is present, clean and repair as necessary.
2. Inspect to ensure all hydraulic hoses are tight and not
leaking. If hoses are showing signs of wear, replace as
necessary. After torquing the hydraulic hoses, SAF-HOLLAND
recommends putting a line across the fittings for a future
visual reference that will indicate loose fittings.
3. Inspect the filler cap for signs of damage. The foam baffle
on the inside of the cap should be flat and in place. Inspect
all wire connections on toggles, push buttons or any other
controls attached to the liftgate. Clean and apply dielectric
grease to all electrical components to help reduce corrosion.
4. Inspect all wiring and wiring connections to ensure they
are tight and free of corrosion. If the pump has foreign
debris, clean the entire pump and wire connections. Once
you are satisfied that all components are clean, apply
non-aerosol dielectric grease to all connections. If any
wires show signs of deterioration, replace as required.
5. SAF-HOLLAND recommends that you flush and replace
the hydraulic oil every year to ensure contaminates are
flushed from the system. Remove the pump tank and
wipe free with a lint free cloth. If present, clean reservoir
magnet of contaminants. Remove the strainer and flush.
Replace the strainer. Remove any contaminates.
NOTE: To reduce downtime, bring in your liftgate every
two to three (2-3) months for quick and simple
inspections. Daily inspections while doing the circle
check on your vehicle will spot any concerns
before they become serious failures.
11.3 Yearly Inspection
1. Change the oil and oil filter. When filling pump reservoir, use
a funnel with a fine mesh screen . Use only recommended
hydraulic fluid (refer to Section 15).