Can a Tailgate Lift Assist Be Used On a Trailer with 26 Inch Sides

Updated 08/03/2015 | Published 08/01/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Rack'Em Double Barrel Utility Trailer Tailgate Lift Assist w/ Chain - 200 lbs

(219)

$237.85

Gorilla-Lift Utility Trailer Tailgate Lift Assist w/ Cable - 300 lbs

(370)

$222.42

Question:

My trailer has 26inch side height. Can I make this unit work?

asked by: John H

Expert Reply:

I spoke with Rack'Em and they said that the Double Barrel # RA-27C could be modified to work on a trailer with 26 inch side rails. The mounting location of the Double Barrel would need to be brought down to 12 inches. Additionally, the bracket that attaches to the tailgate will need to be modified in order to keep the chain in a straight line going into the Double Barrel. The chain needs to enter the Double Barrel straight on, not from a side.

Another option available for a trailer tailgate lift is the Gorilla Lift # GL1. The Gorilla Lift needs to be mounted between 10 - 24 inches. As with the Double Barrel, this lift can be mounted lower with an L-bracket inside the trailer. The mounting location for the lift cables will need to be modified, or turned to the inside of the tailgate, in order to keep the cable in a straight line with the Gorilla Lift. The manufacturer recommended using and eye-bolt to attach the end of the cable to the tailgate when mounting the Gorilla Lift to the inside of the trailer.

The modifications necessary to use either of these tailgate lift assists will vary based on the design of the trailer.

expert reply by: Victoria B