Question 1

What is a liftgate model number?

Accepted Answer

A liftgate model number is the manufacturer-assigned code that identifies the liftgate type, lifting capacity, platform dimensions, and configuration options. Each manufacturer uses its own format — Maxon encodes SKU-level specs in the model string, while Watco and Palfinger use family codes with configuration tables.

Question 2

Which liftgate brands are supported?

Accepted Answer

The Heavi Liftgate Decoder supports Watco (HDC, WDV, MDL, EMW, and more), Palfinger (ILK, PLR, PTF, The MiniFix, and more), Maxon (TE, GPT, BMR, C2, GPS, and more), and Anthony (AST, ETU, MTU-GLR, LA, and more).

Question 3

Can I decode the manufacture date from the serial number?

Accepted Answer

For Maxon liftgates, the first four digits of the serial number encode the manufacture month and year in either MMYY (pre-June 2014) or YYMM (post-June 2014) format. For Watco, the digit count of the serial number indicates the manufacture era: 4–5 digits means 1970–1999, 6 digits means 2000–present.

Question 4

What does configurationAmbiguous mean?

Accepted Answer

Some liftgate model numbers identify the family and capacity but not the specific physical configuration — platform length, width, material, and weight can vary. When multiple valid configurations exist for a model number, the decoder returns all of them and marks the result as ambiguous. Providing the serial number or checking the data plate can disambiguate.

Question 5

Is this decoder free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Heavi Liftgate Decoder is free, requires no signup, and is rate limited only to prevent abuse.

Liftgate Decoder

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