Dhollandia DH-VHT 44 User manual

Order ref: xxx Doc: FIT_VHT_US_EN_2021 Rev: 1Date: SEPTEMBER 1, 2023
Read the manual in its entirety before operating the liftgate
Keep this manual in the vehicle cab, as reference for the driver and liftgate operator
DH-VHT 44 / 55 / 66
INSTALLATION MANUAL
Manufacturer:
DHOLLANDIA US, L.L.C.
E-mail : [email protected]
270 Southridge Parkway
Bessemer City North Carolina, 28016
website : www.dhollandia.com

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DHOLLANDIA
Contents
1UNDERSTANDING SAFETY AND WARNING SIGNS........................................................................................................................ 2
2INTRODUCTION AND DISCLAIMERS ............................................................................................................................................... 3
3CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
4SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR OPERATION ..................................................................................................................................... 6
5SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR INSTALLATION................................................................................................................................. 6
6LIFTGATE TERMINOLOGY ................................................................................................................................................................ 9
6.1 Getting started........................................................................................................................................................................... 14
6.2 Installation dimensions.............................................................................................................................................................. 15
7DIMENSIONS OF VEHICLE.............................................................................................................................................................. 16
7.1 Clearance dimensions............................................................................................................................................................... 16
8PREPARATION OF THE VEHICLE BODY ....................................................................................................................................... 19
8.1 Extra support............................................................................................................................................................................. 19
9MOUNTING OF THE LIFT FRAME (premounted platform)............................................................................................................... 20
9.1 Positioning the liftgate ............................................................................................................................................................... 20
9.2 Welding of the liftframe.............................................................................................................................................................. 23
10 INSTALLATION OF CONTROL SWITCH.......................................................................................................................................... 27
10.1 Wiring for additional controlswitch on inside beam.................................................................................................................... 28
11 CONNECTION TO THE BATTERIES................................................................................................................................................ 29
12 PUTTING THE LIFTGATE INTO SERVICE....................................................................................................................................... 31
13 LUBRICATION INSTRUCTIONS....................................................................................................................................................... 32
14 COMMISIONING & QUALITY CONTROL ......................................................................................................................................... 32
15 DECALS ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 34
15.1 Regular decals .......................................................................................................................................................................... 34
15.2 Use of the ‘WARNING. LIFTGATE OUT OF SERVICE. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE’ sign .......................................... 38
15.3 Identification decals................................................................................................................................................................... 39
16 APPENDIX......................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
16.1 Important signs.......................................................................................................................................................................... 40
16.2 Prescribed torques values for bolts supplied with liftgate.......................................................................................................... 42
16.3 PDI checklist 1/2........................................................................................................................................................................ 44
16.4 Safe operator position on the platform ...................................................................................................................................... 47
16.5 Circuit breaker........................................................................................................................................................................... 49
16.6 Cab cut off switch...................................................................................................................................................................... 50
16.7 Electric and hydraulic Information ............................................................................................................................................. 51
16.8 End note.................................................................................................................................................................................... 53

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DHOLLANDIA
1UNDERSTANDING SAFETYAND WARNING SIGNS
•Many safety signs and symbols used in this manual are based on international standards, others refer to specific situations or
actions.
•Consult Appendix 1 for an overview of signs and symbols used in DHOLLANDIA manuals, and their meaning. Make sure you
understand these signs and symbols prior to starting the installation.
Examples of standard ANSI
signs
Examples of DHOLLANDIA
purpose made signs
•Please take special notice of the following signs used in the manual. They indicate the likelihood and severity of a potential injury if a
person fails to follow the instructions presented on the safety sign.
NOTICE
DANGER: indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury. [white letters on red background]
WARNING: indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury. [black letters on orange background]
CAUTION: indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury. [black letters on yellow background]
NOTICE: is used to address practices not related to physical injury. [white letters on blue background]
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS: indicate general instructions relative to safe work practices, reminders of
proper safety procedures, or the location of safety equipment. [white letters on green background]
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL: is used to alert the user to potential hazards. All safety messages that
accompany this sign shall be obeyed to avoid possible harm. [free-standing, or on back-ground colours
red, orange, yellow or black]

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DHOLLANDIA
WARNING
•Failure to understand and to follow the instructions in this manual can put the operator and any bystanders at great risk of serious
bodily injury and death.
•Prior to operating the liftgate, make sure you understand the safety and warning signs used, and read them in conjunction with the
instructions in this manual.
•If in doubt, DO NOT operate the liftgate. Contact your national DHOLLANDIA distributor. See page 4 for contact info.
2INTRODUCTION AND DISCLAIMERS
•This manual provides you with the information necessary for the installation of the DHOLLANDIA DH-VHT column liftgate.
•It provides you with general instructions applicable to the common truck and trailer types. It might be possible that specific issues
particular to your installation case are not adequately covered by this manual. If in doubt, please contact your local DHOLLANDIA
distributor for further assistance.
•DHOLLANDIA liftgates are regularly being adapted to new vehicle and chassis developments, and specialized customer requirements.
Therefore, DHOLLANDIA reserves the right to alter product specifications without prior notice. Such modifications might not have been
included at the time this manual was printed.
NOTICE
•Please confirm you have reviewed the most up-to-date version of this manual prior to installation and operation of the associated
DHOLLANDIA liftgate.
•It is the sole responsibility of the installer(s) to follow shop best practices for safety and craftsmanship and to use good common
sense.
•Contact your national DHOLLANDIA distributor if you have any questions regarding the installation, operation, repair and maintenance
of DHOLLANDIA liftgates, or to obtain replacement copies of manuals or decals.
WARNING
•Improper installation can cause damage to the liftgate, can reduce the durability and reliability of the liftgate, and can put the operator
and bystanders at great risk of serious bodily injury and death in many ways.
•It is therefore essential that the liftgates are installed with proper care, in compliance with the installation instructions of this manual.
•In case of doubt, ALWAYS contact the national DHOLLANDIA distributor for further advice, prior to continuing.

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DHOLLANDIA
•Take notice of the following important disclaimers:
DISCLAIMERS
•DHOLLANDIA disclaims liability for any personal injury, death, or property damage that results from operating a liftgate that has
been modified from the original design, without written approval from the manufacturer.
•DHOLLANDIA disclaims liability for any personal injury, death, or property damage that results from improper use of the liftgate
or negligence to apply the precautions and instructions of the operation manual.
•DHOLLANDIA disclaims liability for any personal injury, death, or property damage that results from incorrect of negligent
installation.
•DHOLLANDIA disclaims any liability for damage arising from modifications to the vehicle in its entirety as a result from installation.
All modifications to the vehicle must be done in accordance to instructions issued by the vehicle and body manufacturer.
•There are no warranties, express or implied, including the warranty of merchantability or a warranty of fitness for a particular
purpose extending beyond that set forth in this manual.

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DHOLLANDIA
3CONTACT INFORMATION
•This manual provides you with the information necessary for the installation of the 4400 –6600 lbs capacity DH-VHT* column lifts.
•It contains general instructions applicable to the most common types of trucks and trailers. Possibly, specific issues particular to your
case are not adequately covered by this manual. If in doubt, contact your national DHOLLANDIA distributor for further assistance prior
to continuing.
•DHOLLANDIA liftgates are regularly adapted to new vehicle and chassis developments and specialized customer requirements.
Therefore, DHOLLANDIA reserves the right to alter product specifications without prior notice. Such modifications might not have been
included at the time this manual was printed.
NOTICE
•Please confirm you have reviewed the most up-to-date version of this manual prior to operation of the associated DHOLLANDIA
liftgate. See below for instructions to download the latest version of the manual.
•It is the sole responsibility of the installer(s) to follow best workshop practices for safety and craftsmanship and to use good common
sense.
•Contact your national DHOLLANDIA distributor if you have any questions regarding the installation, operation, repair and maintenance
of DHOLLANDIA liftgates, or to obtain replacement copies of manuals or decals:
DHOLLANDIA US, LLC
DHOLLANDIA CANADA, Inc.
DHOLLANDIA MEXICO
270 Southridge Parkway
Bessemer City NC 28016
2105 Boulevard des Enterprises
Terrebonne Quebec J6Y1W9
Fracc. Industrial Dinamo Norte
Calle Tierra 103-105
Salinas Victoria CP 65500
Monterrey Nuevo Leon, Mexico
980-443-4446
(company line)
514-360-6125 ext.3
(parts and service)
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[phone]
[e-mail]
The latest version of all manuals can also be downloaded from the DHOLLANDIA website:
www.dhollandia.com → Country & language selection → Downloads → … select required manual
WARNING
•Improper installation can cause damage to the liftgate, can reduce its durability and reliability, and can put the operator and
bystanders at great risk of serious bodily injury and death in many ways.
•It is therefore essential that the liftgates are installed with proper care, in compliance with the installation instructions of this manual
and the fitting and body building instructions of the vehicle manufacturer.
•In case of doubt, ALWAYS contact your national DHOLLANDIA distributor for further advice, prior to continuing.

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DHOLLANDIA
4SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR OPERATION
•It is essential that the personnel involved in installing, servicing and repairing liftgates knows, understands and applies
the safety instructions and precautions contained in the OPERATION MANUAL issued with the liftgate.
•Therefore, make sure you consult the OPERATION MANUAL prior to installing or operating the liftgate.
5SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR INSTALLATION
•It is essential that the personnel involved in installing, servicing and repairing liftgates knows, understands and applies
the safety instructions and precautions contained in the GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION,
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR manual.
•Therefore, make sure you consult the GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE
AND REPAIR manual prior to installing the liftgate.
•These instructions are supplied as a separate manual with your liftgate.
•You can also contact the national DHOLLANDIA distributor for the latest edition of this manual. See page 4 for contact
info. Or download the latest edition from the website:
www.dhollandia.com →your language →Downloads →User’s manuals → General information
WARNING
•Improper use of the liftgate will put the operator and other parties at great risk of serious bodily injury and death.
•To reduce the risk of serious bodily injury to the operator and any bystanders, the use of the liftgate is restricted to skilled operators,
who have been properly trained, and who know and understand the full contents of the operation manual.
•To reduce the risk of serious bodily injury or death, THE OPERATOR MUST COMPLY WITH ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND
WARNING LABELS IN THE OPERATION MANUAL before and while operating the liftgate.
•Please confirm you have reviewed the most up-to-date version of this manual prior to installation and operation of the associated
DHOLLANDIA liftgate.

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DHOLLANDIA
WARNING
•The personnel involved in liftgate installation are exposed to various dangers. Improper use of the liftgate, or ignorance and neglect
during installation, will put the personnel at great risk of bodily injury and death.
•Improper installation can cause damage to the liftgate, can reduce the durability and reliability of the liftgate, and can put the operator
and bystanders at great risk of serious bodily injury and death in many ways.
•To reduce the risk of serious bodily injury or death to the installation personnel, to the operator, and any bystanders, liftgate
installation works MUST be restricted to skilled and trained technicians, who have been duly and professionally trained, and know,
understand and apply the manuals of the liftgate:
1. OPERATION MANUAL
2. INSTALLATION MANUAL
3. GENERAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR
•ALWAYS confirm you have reviewed the most up-to-date version of these manuals prior to installation and operation of the
associated DHOLLANDIA liftgate.
•In case of doubt, ALWAYS contact the national DHOLLANDIA distributor for further advice, prior to continuing.
•ALWAYS wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment. This includes but may not be limited to: ANSI rated glasses with side
guards, or a wrap-around face shield; steel toe safety shoes; fire-resistant overalls; protective gloves; adequate ear protection; a
safety helmet when working under the vehicle chassis.
•NEVER wear loose-fitting clothes that may get trapped in the moving parts of the liftgate, or in any machinery and tools used for the
installation. Don’t wear rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches etc…
•ALWAYS use the proper tool for the job. Repair or replace worn or damaged tools before use.
•Pay special attention to the lifting devices (forklifts, overhead cranes, hoists, chains or ropes…) used to handle the liftgates, and for
the clamping tools (C-clamps, pipe clamps, vise grips…) used to clamp the liftgate, its mounting plates and floor extension to the
vehicle chassis and box. Ensure these tools are appropriate for the job, and in good working order.
•Place the vehicle on a flat even ground and chock the wheels so that it cannot move during the installation process. In case of a
motor vehicle, make sure the engine is off and the parking brake is set before starting.
•Do not work underneath the liftgate, or within reach of the platform and the moving parts of the liftgate, without properly securing
and supporting the platform and the liftgate frame against accidental falling. Use an overhead crane and hoists, a forklift or equivalent
means to secure the heavy liftgate components.
•Make sure the vehicle battery power is disconnected while installing the liftgate. Connect the battery power to the liftgate only when
the installation is completed, or as required in the installation instructions.
Before welding, note that welding on galvanized parts releases hazardous fumes. Provide adequate ventilation,
and wear an appropriate toxic fume rated welding respirator.
•NEVER modify DHOLLANDIA liftgates or their mounting plates without prior written consent by the manufacturer.
If for any reason, trouble-shooting and / or repair might be needed during the installation process, consult and
follow the guidelines and safety instructions of the MAINTENANCE MANUAL.

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DHOLLANDIA
NOTICE
•Make sure the vehicle battery power is disconnected while installing the liftgate. Connect the battery power to the liftgate only when
the installation is completed, or as required in the installation instructions.
•Except for the support channels and bracing of the side steps, which are usually welded to the cross members of the auxiliary
chassis, DHOLLANDIA liftgates are designed as a bolt-on system, and don’t require any welding. See Appendix 2 for
prescribed torque values.
•Welding should be done by qualified personnel only, and only to the extent allowed by the vehicle manufacturer. Ensure that the
positive and ground cables are disconnected from the batteries, and that all vehicle electrical and electronic equipment is fully
isolated before welding.
•ALWAYS keep the ground clamp as close as possible to the weld location.
WARNING
NEVER modify DHOLLANDIA liftgates or their mounting plates, NEVER deviate from the described installation procedures without prior
written consent by the manufacturer.

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DHOLLANDIA
6LIFTGATE TERMINOLOGY
LIFTGATE TERMININOLOGY
See figure below page for parts corresponding to numbers in this table
#
Description
1
Lift columns: set of 2 columns mounted in a fixed position against the rear frame of the vehicle body. The columns are the
tracks in which the lift runners carrying the platform, travel up / down.
2
Lift runners: set of 2 profiles carrying the platform and its load. They are lifted / lowered by the lift cylinders.
3
Lift cylinder: hydraulic cylinders used to LIFT / LOWER the lift runners, the platform and its load. They are mounted inside
the lift columns.
4
Tilt cylinder: hydraulic cylinder used to OPEN / CLOSE the platform. Tilt cylinder is protected by a robust steel plate.
5
Bed extension: fixed extension of the vehicle bed, connecting L and R side columns. The bed extension incorporates toe-
protection slope according to EN1756-1.
6
Pockets for rear truck lights. These pockets also give access to the fixation screws of the slide pads of the lift runners (for
maintenance).
7
Loading dock protection plates: reinforcement plate on lift columns, to increase protection upon impact at loading docks.
8
Support chains: the support chains support the platform, and its load, when unfolded in an open work position
9
Platform: carries the load during loading / unloading. Consists of a base section [11], a folding point [12] and a flip ramp [13].
10
Base section of the platform: inboard platform section.
11
Folding point: outboard platform section.
12
Flip ramp: load restraint device preventing rolling loads from rolling unintentionally off the outboard platform edge.
13
Flashing lights: platform mounted lights to make platform visible in public traffic.

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DHOLLANDIA
1
1
3
3
6
6
5
7
7
4
8
10
11
12
9
13
2
13
8
2

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DHOLLANDIA
#
Description
1
Lift columns: housings for the lift components.
2
Lift runners: main articulation point for the lift platform which attaches to the lift columns.
3
Lift cylinders: responsible for applying the appropriate forces required to lift.
4
Tilt cylinder + impact protection plate: allows the platform to change pitch + helps secure the platform in stowing.
6
Bed extension: fixed extension of the vehicle bed, connecting L and R side columns. The bed extension incorporates toe-
protection slope according to EN1756-1.
7
Pockets for rear truck lights. These pockets also give access to the fixation screws of the slide pads of the lift runners (for
maintenance)
10
Support chains: the support chains support the platform, and its load, when unfolded in an open work position
11
Platform: carries the load during loading / unloading. Consists of a base section [11], a folding point [12] and a flip ramp [13]
12
Base section of the platform: inboard platform section.
14
Folding point: outboard platform section
21
Flashing lights: platform mounted lights to make platform visible in public traffic
23
Platform hook: platform mounted hook; picking into stowage hook [21] or deck hook [22] when platform is in closed / folded
position
24
Lift height stop: if closed, platform will stop flush with vehicle bed level. If opened, platform will lift higher above bed level
25
Fixed cross member: first, most inboard platform section mounted fixed between the lift runners. The platform [10-11-12]
pivots around this member
26
Lock for flip ramp: locking device for locking flip ramp in its travel position

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DHOLLANDIA
3
6
21
1
24
7
10
23
14
26
15
11
25
4
12
2

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DHOLLANDIA
#
Description
1
Battery switch: main switch for connecting/disconnecting the battery.
2
Emergency control: controller inside pump unit to operate liftgate during maintenance/repair.
3
Valve block: Hydraulic valve unit containing main valves for controlling the liftgate.
4
Pump unit control panel: Enables selection of MOTOR 1 or MOTOR 2 and the selection of Gravity Down or Power Down.
5
Starter solenoid electromagnet which is actuated to engage the starter motor of an internal combustion engine.
6
Main pump unit main pump unit used to operate liftgate. Switching between pump unit can be done by selecting MOTOR 1
(main pump unit) or MOTOR 2 (auxiliary pump unit) on the pump unit control panel. Only switch the pump unit while the
liftgate is not in operation.
7
Auxiliary pump unit: only used when the main pump unit is defect. BEFORE usage ALWAYS contact a certified Dhollandia
service agent for support. Switching between pump unit can be done by selecting MOTOR 1 (main pump unit) or MOTOR 2
(auxiliary pump unit) on the pump unit control panel. Only switch the pump unit while the liftgate is not in operation.
8
Oil tank: Carries the oil needed for the closed hydraulic circuit.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

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DHOLLANDIA
6.1 GETTING STARTED
•OEM Vehicle manufacturers may have issued important instructions on various aspects of the liftgate installation, specific to the brand
and type of chassis, such as welding instructions (or prohibition to weld!); instructions on chassis drilling and bolt-on connections to
the chassis; recommendations on the use of hydraulic stabilizing legs; guidelines for the battery and ground cable connections; fuses
and other electrical interfaces; etc...
NOTICE
•The installer MUST verify and ensure compatibility between the liftgate and the vehicle.
•The installer MUST verify and ensure compliance with the installation instructions issued by the vehicle and body
manufacturer.
•Improper modifications to the vehicle chassis or body could cause serious mechanical failure of the vehicle. The installer MUST
ensure that modifications to the vehicle chassis and / or body will not adversely affect the structural integrity of the chassis and / or
body.
•In the event instructions of vehicle manufacturer conflict with the installation instructions issued by DHOLLANDIA (e.g. on fuse
ratings, etc.), contact your national DHOLLANDIA distributor for further assistance.
•In the event OEM instructions conflict with the installation instructions issued by DHOLLANDIA (e.g. fuse ratings, etc.) contact
DHOLLANDIA see page 5 for contact info.
•DHOLLANDIA disclaims any liability for damage arising from modifications to the vehicle in its entirety as a result from installation.
All modifications to the vehicle must be done in accordance to instructions issued by the vehicle and body manufacturer.
•Place vehicle on a flat even ground and chock the wheels so that it cannot move during the installation process. In case of a motor
vehicle, switch off the engine and engage the parking brake before starting.
•Verify the installation kit is complete, and that all parts needed to correctly fit the liftgate are present.
•Compare the voltage of the vehicle batteries with the voltage of the hydraulic pump unit of the liftgate.
•Compare the installation dimensions and maximum installation parameters indicated in the installation drawing with the actual
dimensions of the vehicle, to verify compliance. (See next chapter).
•Verify if the vehicle chassis and body are strong enough to support the load and moment created by the liftgate at maximum rated
capacity. Refer to the Body Builder Guidelines of the OEM vehicle manufacturer for details.
•Check the stability of the vehicle and the weight over the axles with the addition of a liftgate loaded to maximum capacity. The weights
indicated in the technical documentation and price list are theoretical and approximate and may vary from one liftgate installation to
another.
•Make sure that the body is accurately fitted to the vehicle chassis.
•Remove all objects that are mounted in the mounting space required by the liftgate (RUP, spare wheel carrier, pallet racks, tool boxes,
etc.). If necessary, consult with the OEM vehicle manufacturer for replacement solutions (e.g. special spare wheel carriers, exhaust
pipe modifications, etc.).
•Finish the liftgate in compliance with applicable road legislation of the country where the vehicle will be registered.
•When connecting hydraulic fittings, make sure that the connections are thoroughly clean, and that you don’t contaminate the hydraulic
oil.
•Grease all bearings and pins before putting the liftgate into service. It is recommended to grease all articulation bearings before
mounting the corresponding articulation pin.

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DHOLLANDIA
•After installation, work through the pre-delivery inspection (PDI) checklist, verify all check points with due diligence. Make sure the
final inspection is signed off by an inspector who is not part of the installation team.
•Do not pressurize any liftgate functions (LIFT / LOWER) before the liftgate installation is fully finished.
•During installation and while testing, verify that the liftgate and its moving parts don’t interfere with, or cause damage to the vehicle
systems (e.g. to suspension, braking system, hydraulic and electrical circuits, etc.).
6.2 INSTALLATION DIMENSIONS
•Before starting the installation, verify if the actual floor height VFH of the vehicle falls within the given min. and max. range VFH MIN
< VFH < VFH MAX.
•The max. floor height VFH MAX. should be measured for an UNLOADED vehicle (= worst case)
•The min. floor height VFH MIN. should be measured for a FULLY LOADED vehicle (= worst case)
NOTICE
Where chassis beams, longs sills, the rear sill and other steel chassis or body components have been cut, grinded, drilled, etc…, the
installer should apply adequate anti-corrosive coating to protect the vehicle and body against corrosion. Check, and make sure you
comply with the instructions of the OEM vehicle manufacturer.

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DHOLLANDIA
7DIMENSIONS OF VEHICLE
7.1 CLEARANCE DIMENSIONS
Figure 7.1

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DHOLLANDIA
Figure 7.2

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DHOLLANDIA
WARNING
•The mounting side of the vehicle body must be perpendicular and to the ground and may not exceed a difference of 1° (89-91°) to
mount the VHT. In case of a difference larger than 1° steel filler plates can be used to mount the liftgate completely perpendicular
with the ground.
•In case of using steel filler plates or additional materials ALWAYS check with the body constructor or DHOLLANDIA if these add-
ons match the strength requirements for mounting the DH-VHT liftgate. Failure to do this can result in damage, personal injury or
death.
Steel shims / spacers may be
necessary

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DHOLLANDIA
8PREPARATION OF THE VEHICLE BODY
8.1 EXTRA SUPPORT
If the vehicle walls need extra reinforcements, it is necessary to add the following supports to the vehicle corner posts. Minimum required
material: Structural Rectangular Tubing. 4” x 2” ASTM-A36 General Purpose Steel.
For flatbed body vehicles or extra questions please contact your nearby official Dhollandia service agent.
NOTICE
For flatbed body vehicles or extra questions please contact your nearby official Dhollandia service agent.
WARNING
•It is the installer’s responsibility to reinforce the vehicle body sufficiently, if necessary when mounting the DH-VHT liftgate. In case
of doubt always inform your official Dhollandia service agent for support.
•Failure to reinforce the vehicle body can result in damage, personal injury or death.