Downeaster DED LP Owner's manual

Printed in USA PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS.
Booklet Part # --------15
3/29/2016 Rev A
Owner's Name : Dealer :
Purchase Date : / / Phone : ( )
-
Trailer Part # :
Weight #
empty :
Serial #
Rated
capacity :
Other:
Payload :
Owner's Information:
OWNER'S & OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Contact your local dealer or distributorfor replacement parts and technical
support or visit
www.downeastermfg.com
DED LP DUMP BODY SCISSOR HOIST SERIES

2
Page Page
Introduction 2Operation 15
Check list 3Pump Pressure 16
Safety 4Trouble shooting 17
Warnings 5Replacement Parts 18
Warning labels 6, 7 Materials chart 19
Electrical 8, 9 Warranty 20
Installation 10 thru 14
The DownEaster Lo-Pro dump body is designed and intended for straight frame, 34" wide, Cab & chassis
trucks only! DownEaster does not recommend mounting of such unit onto a standard pick up truck frame,
(box delete). The unit bodies are solely designed for Cab to Axle (CA) dimensions of 60", 72" 84" and 96". All
body lengths have a 95" wide deck width, to cover most track widths of all manufacturers. The body features
a dual hinged tailgate that can pivot form the top for spreading material, or fold down 180 degrees for
loading. The bottom latches are operated by the lever, at the front of the body and the top latches are of dual
locking, quick pull down, on each side, for safety. Integral tarp hooks and mounting holes are integrated into
the rear of the body and cab shield, which includes a slotted viewing window, standard. the body is designed
to be of the 2 to 4 yard struck capacity type, with proper side board extensions.
Read and understand all sections of this manual prior to installing or operating the DownEaster hoist. This
manual contains information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the HD-512 & HD-515 Hoists,
Sub-Frame and Dump Body. Proper care and operation of the unit will assure years of dependable service.
Your local DownEaster Dealer will instruct you in its general operation.
Ordering Repair Parts
When service is necessary, your local DownEaster dealer can provide assistance. Always obtain original
DownEaster replacement parts from your dealer. Substitute items could affect the performance and warranty
of the unit. Dealers in your area can be found on the web at www.downeastermfg.com .
When ordering parts, the dumper assembly serial number and description or part number of parts needed
are required. The dumper serial number is located on the drivers side of the front face (behind truck cab) of
the dumper body.
CONTENTS
Contents
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a DownEaster Dump Body. This Owners Manual provides easy to follow
instructions for installing, operating and servicing the unit. Read the entire manual carefully to learn the
proper procedures for each operation. Follow all of the instructions described to keep the dumper in top
condition and it will provide years of trouble-free performance. In the event that a problem should arise or if
you have any questions about the unit, please contact your DownEaster dealer.
All information, illustrations and specifications in this manual are based on the latest DownEaster Dump
Body information, available at the time of publication. The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes
and improvements without notice.
*** NOTE: Read this manual and fully understand the information presented before starting or operating
the equipment.
Foreword

3
XQnty Note:
1
DEDP102 Reflector, Red 2 3/8” acrylic round 4
DEDP222 Reflector, Amber, 2 3/8” acrylic round 2
TPE112 LED 2'' Red clearance light ..PC RATED 2
TPE104 LED Tail light, 6'' oval grommet mount 2
TPE161 Grommet for 2 '' Marker Light 2
TPE173A Grommet for Oval Taillight 2
DEDP265 3/4'' LED marker light, RED, round 3
HWE117 Cable Tie 8'' x 2 Dia 8
DEDP100 Littlefuse, Single Terminal Fuse holder 1
DEDP100A 250 Amp MEGA Blade Fuse 1
TPL170 .62'' Natural Nylon Adhesive Cord Clip 6
HWE132 Connector Butt Blue Shrink tube 16-14 GA 6
DEDP205 Expandable chain cover 2
1/4' chain, grade 50, zinc @ 36" 3
HWF699 5/16" quick link 2
DEDM432 Sub frame Chassis brackets, 2
DEDM460 Mud flap bracket, bolt on, for 2016 models only 2
DEDP202 Hardware KIT, Scissor/Sub frame 1
DEDP376 Hardware kit, sill plate to chassis 1
DEDP378 Hardware kit for dump body rear frame 1
DEDP380 Hardware kit, Cab Shield, 2016 models 1
DEDP384 Hardware kit - Mud Flap Brackets, 2016 models 1
DEDP390 Hardware kit - Ring Chain and bump stop 1
N/A Rivet shims, 10GA HR , Bare finish 2
TPE187 Dump body cable set (0/1 GA) 1
DEDP248 Chain kit - dump body tailgate
CHECK LIST
Your DownEaster dump body will be shipped with the hoist and sub frame assembled to tub unit, with hydraulic
pump and hoses installed and ready for electrical hook up.
-The Cab Shield will be shipped inside tub, unless otherwise specified.
-A box with all electrical components, wiring, lights, fasteners, and mounting hardware/brackets will also be
supplied.
Use the parts list below to track your install.
DEDP386 Light kit - dump body, 2015
DEDP246 Circuit breaker kit - 250A
DEDP368 Wire Harness for DownEaster dump body
Description

4
*
*
*
*
*
*
Use automatic transmission fluid only. (Dextron III) in the hydraulic reservoir. Check regularly and
keep clean.
Never replace any hydraulic component, unless part is compatible with original manufacturer
equipment or one that is approved by DownEaster, to not void warranty.
Any component not compatible may lead to failure of hoist, which may result in truck damage,
property damage, injury or death.
The purpose of safety symbols is to draw attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols and
explanations with them deserve your careful attention. The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate
any danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention
procedures.
Identifies the most serious hazards.
Failure to obey a safety warning can result in injury
to yourself and others.
Indicate[s] a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
Before attempting any procedure in this book, these safety instructions must be read and understood
by all workers who have any part in the preparation or use of this equipment.
SAFETY
Carefully read this manual. Learn how to safely operate the DownEaster body and how to use the controls
properly. Do not allow anyone to operate the body without proper training and instruction. Unauthorized
modification to the DownEaster body may impair the function and/or safety of the machine.
Follow safety instructions
Read all safety messages in the manual and on the DownEaster safety labels. Follow recommended
precautions and safe operating practice. Maintain all safety labels on the DownEaster in good condition. Replace
missing or damaged safety labels with new labels available through your DownEaster dealer.
Always wear safety glasses with side shields when servicing unit. Failure to do this could result in
serious injury to the eyes.
ALWAYS disconnect vehicle's battery, prior to installation or repair of equipment.
Maximum hydraulic pressure is factory set at 2800 PSI. Tampering with this setting can damage
hydraulic components and result in system failure.

5
If welding is required, for rear of sub frame, or vehicle chassis, insure all gasoline lines, tanks, fittings,
and electrical components are protected from damage, heat and sparks. Failure to fuel system may
result in gasoline being ignited, which may result in unit, property or vehicle damage, serious injury or
death.
Never operate equipment when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that might alter
your judgment and /or reaction time.
Always make sure personnel are clear of areas of danger when using equipment. Maintain 20'
distance from all bystanders when operating.
Inspect the unit periodically for defects. Parts that are broken, missing, or worn out must be replaced
immediately. The unit, or any part of it can not be altered without prior written permission from the
manufacturer.
Install electrical and hydraulic components AWAY from heat sources and vehicles exhaust system.
Keep hinge pins and bushings well greased-inspect regularly for proper operation during rotation.
Always release the tailgate pins prior to raising the dump body when it is loaded. The tailgate pins
should not be released with a load against the tailgate.
Before raising the dumper, check for adequate overhead clearance. Be alert for overhead electrical
wires.
WARNINGS
Never exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of truck. Failure to do so may limit the vehicle's
handling characteristics. Make certain the load is evenly distributed.
NEVER weld any component or bracket to frame of vehicle, before the rear leaf spring hanger.
Chassis steel is made from Hi Tensile materials and welding to frame may result in voided warranty
from manufacturer, increase stress at weld point, cracking do to material fatigue, and damage to
other vehicle structure components.
Never attempt to work under the body, without the safety body prop, in upright position, resting on
prop rest, under an UNLOADED body only!
Always inspect for defects: broken, worn, or bent parts or weakened areas
Always keep hands, feet, and clothing away from power-driven parts. Remember it is the owner’s
responsibility to communicate information on safe usage and proper maintenance of all equipment.
Never attempt to work under the body while raised, with material in it.
Operate the hoist only when the truck is on a firm, level surface.
Always inspect the area around the truck for safe dumping prior to operating the hoist.
Do not move the truck with the body in a raised position.

6
WARNING LABEL & LIGHTING LOCATIONS
LBL110
LBL112
LBL140
LBL131
LBL110
LBL146

7
WARNING LABEL & LIGHTING LOCATIONS
FRONT DRIVER
SIDE
SIDE DRIVER
SIDE REAR
LBL146

8Rev B
ELECTRICAL
Pump & optional vibrator
For rated performance, the voltage at the power unit must be a minimum of 12VDC. This should be measured
between the large terminal of the start solenoid (where the battery cable is connected) and the power unit base.
NOTE: Grounding of the power unit is just as important as the installation of the positive battery cable.
Do not connect to battery terminals, unless cables are connected at the pump side first.
Connect the large terminal on the motor start solenoid to one terminal, on the 250 amp fuse breaker, with a #0
gauge battery cable at 20'. Connect the 16" #0 gauge cable to the other side terminal of the fuse breaker to the
Positive side terminal of the battery. Grounding of the power unit can be completed only through a second
battery cable. If a vehicle chassis ground is used, or inline circuit breaker provided is not installed,
warranty will be voided! Connect the negative terminal on the battery to the grounding hole on the power
unit base using an #0 size battery cable. Check the voltage between the large terminal on the start solenoid and
the power unit base.
DO NOT USE
VEHICLE CHASSIS
OR SUBFRAME AS
GROUND
GROUND
POSITIVE

9Rev B
Body lighting
Install the wiring harness on the body. Anchor the wiring harness to the wire hangers on the body and the sub
frame. Be sure to leave a ___ inch long loop between the anchor point on the body and the anchor point on the
sub frame to allow for the body to be dumped, without damaging the wiring harness. There should be some slack
in the ___ inch loop when the body is fully raised.
Insert marker lights into rubber grommets, connect the plugs on the wiring harness to the marker lights and
mount the rubber grommets in the holes provided in the rear pillars and the rear rub rail.
Mount the amber reflectors on the 45 deg. front corner. Mount the red reflectors near the rear on the side
posts and on the rear valance near the side ends. MOUNT DECALS IN THE PROPER PLACES. See Figure ___ for
decal identification and placement.
Typical Pendant control wiring
ELECTRICAL
Locate the push-button control, in the cab and route the cable out of the back side of cab, through a hole in the
back of the cab. Connect the push-button control to the electric power unit using the 3-pin or 4 pin connector set,
or manually tie in each terminal, depending on pump model series. See the pump reference on the next page for
pendant wiring.

10
INSTALLATION
Your DownEaster dump body will come fully assembled to the SUB frame and hoist attached. (unless ordered
otherwise).
This body was designed for Cab & Chassis trucks with a frame width of 34" only. Any other frame width will
require custom mounting, responsible by the installer.
WARNING DO NOT ATTEMPT TO INSTALL ON A PICK UP BOX REMOVAL OR ANY OTHER VEHICLE NOT
DESIGNED FOR 34" FRAME WIDTH
Preparation
Measure the truck frame length. For 60" CA (Cab to axle), maximum frame length from cab should not
exceed 111". If frame is longer, or has been modified, or extended previously, frame will have to be
shortened. (See your brands Upfitter's Guide for frame cutting and modification procedures.)
The body comes with optional rear bolt kit, if welding is not desired, applicable or an option. See the drill
layout below (Fig. 1-A) for drilling template. Grade 8, 1/2" hardware is utilized. Requires a 1/2" or 17/32 drill.
If an obstruction prevents the drilling of both holes, the provided sill plates must be used as close as to the
rear of the sub frame as possible, within 3" of the front of the rear hinge angle. Sill plate may be reversed to
accommodate obstructions. Use hardware kit DEDP376 provided. Some manufactures recommend sub
frame be attached to chassis in 3 places. If so, a second set of sill plates will be needed for installation, unless
welding of rear hinge has been utilized.
Blank cut outs have been provided
(1-C), for wiring and fuel filler
tubes.
1-C
1-A
1-B

11
Prepping Frame
Prep rear of chassis frame, ensuring all fuel lines, wiring, hoses and brake lines are protected or covered from
flames or sparks.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the truck frame has rivets in the top flange, where the hoist saddle brackets will be mounted, add
spacers provided (rivet shims) between the truck frame and hoist mounting pads. Do not countersink the
hoist mounting plate that extends out from the sub frame. Do not remove the rivet heads! If rivets are the
round style, they may be ground flush with the rivet shim.
These plates are to be placed over the rivet heads for proper weight distribution. Failure to install Rivet Shim
Plate will result in improper load distribution and will "VOID WARRANTY "
On certain brands of trucks, some electronic modules, located on cross members, may need to be
relocated, as to not interfere with the scissor hoist mounting location. (example: GM modules shown
2"
Modules Cross member
2-B
2-A
2-C
2-D
2-E

12
INSTALLATION
Place the body/hoist/sub frame on the truck with a minimum of 2.5" inches of cab clearance.
Note: Installing temporary jumper cables to the pump, will ease installation of 0/1 cables, as to lift the
body up to better access the pump solenoid.
If rear bolt on option was chosen, align holes in rear hinge with holes drilled in chassis.
1/2' grade 8 bolts MUST be installed head up, as to not interfere with dump hinge operation. Temporary
clamp sub frame in place, and remove the 1" hinge bolts and lift up the body tub rear enough to put
hardware in place. Lower body back onto sub frame and loosely reinstall 1' hinge bolts
If welding rear, center hinge angle on chassis, making sure there is proper cab clearance and entire sub frame
is centered on chassis. Tack weld hinge to rear of chassis frame and continue to next step.
Note: If installing on a 9' frame, there may be an overhang from the filler bar coming off the hinge angle.
You may cut this off, or leave in place as an overhang to protect hitch plate.
When Sub Frame and Hoist are positioned correctly, position Sub Frame Chassis brackets to hoist saddle
pads protruding out from sub frame. The chassis brackets have 3 tabs for multiple brands, and one may have
to be cut off for clearance. Example: Most GM and Ford applications will require the center tab to be
removed, and Ram trucks may need to have the forward tab removed on both sides to clear front spring
perch hanger. Install 2 - 1/2" x 1- 1/2" Grade 8 Bolts, washers and nuts on both sides. Tighten bolts just
enough to hold brackets in place, making sure that they are tight against frame for drilling (Slight
repositioning may be required in later step)
NOTE: Prior to any drilling through frame, make sure any wiring, gas or brake lines are clear of drill path.
Drill (2) 17/32" Dia holes into truck frame using the Chassis Frame Bracket holes as guides and repeat on
opposite side. This can also be done by center punching, removing brackets and then drilling. (1/4" pilot hole
recommended) Next, install (2) ea 1/2"x 2" hex cap screws, washers and nuts provided on each side. Torque
all hardware from and rear accordingly.
See Detail 4-C.
1/4" fillet weld required on both sides or chassis frame to hinge angle.
Front brackets
WARNING: DO NOT WELD TO CHASSIS FRAME ANYWHERE IN FRONT OF THE REAR SPRING HANGERS!
Filler on 9'-3" frames
2" back set on 9'-3" frames
3-A
3-B

13
Loosely install the 3/8-16 carriage bolts through the
front facing back, so just the head is protruding out.
Install the washers and locknuts, making sure cab
shield is parallel to body and close all gaps. Tighten
accordingly.
Torque values
INSTALLATION
Cab Shield
Using the hardware kit provided, loosely mount the
cab shield, starting with the outer bolts to the side
plates, with the 3/8-16 stainless hex head bolts,
lock washers and flat washers.
3/8" Stainless Hex
Bolts
3/8" Carriage
Bolts
4-B
4-A

14
Once body is installed and bolted/welded to chassis, use the jumper cables to lift body to position the safety
prop.
WARNING: DO NOT POWER DOWN ON SAFETY PROP!
Tailgate
Slide the 1/4" chain through the expanded sleeving and mount with the 5/16" quick links provided. Feed
chain through bottom angle keeper of the gate and into the rearward facing banjo hole for spreading. (5-C)
For lowering the gate in the down position. Remove chain from bottom keeper and insert end into the side
facing banjo slot on top, and adjust accordingly. (5-D)
INSTALLATION
Connect cables as shown in the electrical section of this manual.
Cycle body up and down and check for leaks and any clearance issues pertaining to wiring or components on
vehicle.
5-B
5-A
5-D
5-C

15
PRE CHECKS & OPERATIONS
Always release the tailgate pins prior to raising the dump body when it is loaded. The tailgate pins should not be
released with a load against the tailgate.
WARNING!
NEVER PLACE ARMS, HANDS, OR OTHER BODY
PARTS UNDER THE BODY WHILE RUNNING.
Never go under a raised body without the safety prop in the
raised position, failure to do so may result in a serious injury or even
death. Operate the hoist from a safe location away from traffic or
danger from the load! Check that body will not contact overhead
obstacles while operating hoist.
Pre Operation
Operation
Keep hands, face, and feet away from all moving parts. Do not attempt to stop the machinery when it is moving
or rotating.
Always remain alert. To prevent serious injury to yourself and to others, do not operate this equipment if you
are fatigued.
Thoroughly inspect the dump body for loose or damaged parts before each use. Do not use until adjustments or
repairs are made.
Keep all bystanders, especially children and pets, well away from the area where the machine will be operated.
There are two buttons on the hoist pendent control. The “UP” button can be pressed to raise the hoist and the
“DOWN” button can be pressed to lower the hoist. If equipped with a tarp system, always retract tarp to stored
position before dumping.
The level of the pump reservoir should be checked periodically and fluid added when required.
Always operate the hoist on a solid level surface and check that there are no obstacles to prevent the hoist
Push down on spring
loaded safety latch to
release lock. Move latch
handle up and
lock latch into
stored vertical
position. DO
NOT STAND
DIRECTLY
BEHIND GATE
WHEN LOADED.

16 Rev C
PUMP PRESSURE BULLETIN

17
1. Fluid low 1. Down coil is bad and needs replaced.
2. System is hydra locked and needs be bled. 2. Down valve cartridge needs to be replaced.
3. Pump pressure is set too low. 3. Connection to the down coil is bad.
1. Motor solenoid is bad.
2. Connections from the battery are loose or dirty.
3. Ground connection is loose or not grounded properly.
4. Battery needs to be charged.
Pump motor does not run.
Unit does not go down.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
If malfunction of the power unit should occur, inspect all hydraulic lines and electrical connections, and check for a
good ground. Many malfunctions are caused by loose connections. Check the reservoir for proper fluid level
(approximately 1/2” from top of tank when dumper is down). If fluid must be added, use clean Dextron lll. Please
keep in mind when servicing this unit that the most common cause of system failure is dirt!!! Keep service area
clean.
In most cases a leaking relief valve is caused by dirt. Unscrewing relief valve and cleaning thoroughly can often
correct this.
1. If unit does not operate at all: Malfunction is due to switch, solenoid, motor, dead battery, corroded terminals,
or bad connections at the pump motor package.
2. If unit operates slowly and/or with low pressure: Malfunction is due to a leaking relief valve, clogged filter, worn
pump, corroded or bad battery terminals, or hydraulic fluid that is too heavy.
3. If unit is unable to hold pressure: Malfunction is due to a leaking relief valve.
Unit does not lift but pump runs.

18
KEY PART # DESCRIPTION KEY PART # DESCRIPTION
1DEDT2096 Tailgate, 20" high, for 13" side wall N/A DEDM620 Latch assembly rear, bolt on style w/ bearings
2DEDT2096S Tailgate, 20" high, for 13" side wall STAINLESS 27 DEDM621 Latch assembly front, bolt on style w/ bearings
3DEDM300 Cab shield, 12" overhang 28 DEDM626 Bent anchor bolt x 1
4DEDM310 Cab shield, 24" overhang 29 DEDP210 Adjustable yoke end, zinc, x 1
5DEDM312S Cab shield, 12" overhang, STAINLESS 30 DEDM436 Chassis brackets, x 2
6DEDM314S Cab shield, 24" overhang, STAINLESS N/A DEDM442 Fuel filler neck bracket, x 1, painted
N/A DEDM460 Mud flap bracket, painted black N/A DEDM442S Fuel filler neck bracket, x 1, stainless
N/A DEDM460S Mud flap bracket, Stainless 33 DEDM604 Upper latch handle and lock, Painted x1 (specify L or R)
9DEDM522 9' sub frame, no hoist 34 DEDM604S Upper latch handle and lock, Stainless x1 (specify L or R)
10 DEDM524 10' sub frame, no hoist N/A TPH108 Hydraulic pump, power down
11 DEDP376 Sill plate x 1 N/A TPH186 Hose, 27"
12 HP112 Dump hinge, weld on N/A TPH187 Hose, 45"
13 HP116 Dump hinge, Bolt on, stainless bodies N/A DEDP502 Battery cable set, 0/1 Gauge.
14 HD-512B Hoist, 9' body, 5" x 16" stroke, no cylinder 39 DEDP265 3/4'' LED marker light, RED, round, w/ grommet..
N/A DEDP217 Cylinder, 5" x 16" stroke 40 DEDP222 Reflector, 2 3/8” round, Amber
16 HD-515B Hoist, 10' & 11' body, 5.5" x 20" stroke, no cylinder 41 DEDP102 Reflector, 2 3/8” round, Red
N/A DEDP218 Cylinder, 5.5" x 20" stroke N/A DEDP100A 250 Amp MEGA Blade Fuse
18 DEDM511 Upper lift shaft, hd-512 only 43 TPL169 Rubber bumper, 1 1/2" OD
19 DEDM512 Lower lift shaft and pad, HD512 only
20 DEDM517
Upper lift shaft, HD-515 only KEY PART # DESCRIPTION
21 DEDM518 Lower lift shaft and pad HD515 only 45 LBL148 DownEaster logo
22 DEDM640 Prop Rod, 25", round style 46 LBL131 Label, failure to support the tailgate top
23 DEDM630 Linkage Rod, 9' body 47 LBL110 Label Caution make sure handle mechanisms…….
24 DEDM632 Linkage Rod, 10' body 48 LBL112 Label Danger prior to servicing make sure safety prop is…
25 DEDM634 Linkage Rod, 11' body 49 LBL127 Label Warning it is your responsibility to read, understand ……
50 LBL140 Label, Safety prop location
REPLACEMENT PARTS
LABELS
1, 2
3, 4
9, 10
11
12
14
16
18
19
20
21
22
23
33
27
39
43
40
26
5, 6
13
24
25
34
30
41
45
46
47
48
49
50

19
MATERIAL CHART

F:\Owners manuals\Dump Body Owner's manual\Excel\Dump body Manual 2016
Contact your local dealer or distributer for replacement parts and technical
support or visit
www.downeastermfg.com