TrailerPro Academy
← Dump Hoists
LESSON 2 OF 10

Operation & Lubrication

YOU WILL BE ABLE TO
  • Execute proper dump body lowering techniques to avoid load shocks.
  • Implement the specified 6-month lubrication schedule for hoist and hinge points.
  • Adhere to hydraulic fluid cleanliness standards by pre-filtering into the reservoir.
TOOLS AT THE BAY
  • Grease gun — Apply EP3 grease to hoist and hinge points every 6 months.
  • Hydraulic fluid filter — Pre-filter hydraulic fluid before it enters the reservoir.
  • Grease rags — Clean grease fittings before and after application of EP3 grease.

Never exceed gross capacity. Never jerk the body or drive and stop quickly to free a stuck load — lower it and free the load.

Grease hoist and hinge points with EP3 grease every 6 months.

Pre-filter hydraulic fluid into the reservoir. For pump electrical faults, see the Hydraulic Power Unit course.

How It Works

Load Shock Prevention

Never jerk the body or drive and stop quickly to free a stuck load. These actions cause mechanical shock; if a load is stuck, the body must be lowered and the load freed manually.

Capacity Limits

The hoist system is designed for specific mechanical loads. Never exceed the gross capacity of the unit, as this compromises the structural integrity and hydraulic safety of the hoist.

Hydraulic Cleanliness

Hydraulic systems are sensitive to contaminants. Always pre-filter hydraulic fluid into the reservoir to ensure debris does not enter the system, which could lead to pump or valve failure.

Diagnostic Chart

SymptomCheckSpec / ExpectedLikely cause & fix
Stuck load in the dump body during operation.Attempt to lower the body safely.Lower it and free the load.Attempting to free a stuck load by jerking the body or sudden stops.
Basis: Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Manual
Pivot points exhibit excessive wear or noise.Verify last date of lubrication and type of grease used.EP3 grease every 6 months.Failure to lubricate hoist and hinge points at the required semi-annual interval.
Basis: Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Manual
Dump body exceeds weight limits.Compare current load against the hoist rating.Never exceed gross capacity.Overloading the trailer beyond its rated structural and hydraulic capabilities.
Basis: Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Manual
Pump electrical fault identified.Transition to the specific electrical training module.Per the applicable manualWiring, battery, or motor failure requiring HPU-specific diagnostics.
Basis: Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Manual

At the Bay: Diagnose the Case

CASE 1 / 4

Stuck load in the dump body during operation.

  1. Test
  2. Compare
  3. Correct

Select the next check

Basis: Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Manual. A likely cause is a hypothesis; confirm it with the applicable service procedure before repair.

Common Bay Mistakes

  • ✕ Driving and stopping quickly to dislodge a stuck load.
  • ✕ Jerking the hoist body to assist in dumping.
  • ✕ Exceeding the gross capacity of the hoist system.
  • ✕ Pouring hydraulic fluid directly into the reservoir without pre-filtering.
  • ✕ Neglecting hinge point lubrication for more than 6 months.

Quick Check

Practice only — not scored.

What is the correct procedure for freeing a load that is stuck in the dump body?
How often should the hoist and hinge points be lubricated, and with what material?
What step must be taken when adding fluid to the hydraulic reservoir?
Hands-on: Shop Test Equipment
SHOP TEST EQUIPMENT · SIMULATED READINGS

Hydraulic Pressure & Relief Gauge

0–5,000 psi gauge on the pump pressure port, DC clamp meter, battery voltmeter

🛠 Equip your bay for this test →

Symptom: Routine check before a customer pickup.

Pump pressure
0psi
Hold at full stroke to read relief
Battery voltage
12.7V
Motor current
0A
Bed drift (pump off)
0.0in/min
Load the bed to test
Spec limits used
  • 3,200 psi — Primary relief (factory preset) (KTI Hydraulics Troubleshooting Manual 2019)
  • 1,500 psi — Secondary relief, circuit 111 (KTI Hydraulics Troubleshooting Manual 2019)
  • below 9 V — Low-voltage alarm (KTI remote)
  • illustrative only — Motor current & voltage drop (General shop practice)
Your diagnosis

Simulated readings for practice. Always follow the manufacturer's procedure and values on a real trailer.

Source: Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Manual — 6, 13