For reliable tipping performance, selecting the correct telescopic hydraulic cylinder is just as important as the trailer chassis and hinges. The right match ensures safe tip angles, smooth extension, and long service life under Australian conditions. This guide compares common 3, 4, 5, and 6‑stage cylinders, key dimensions, mounting standards, and how to pair them with an appropriate 12V power unit.
Understanding stages and stroke
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Stages determine how far a cylinder can extend for a given closed height. More stages generally mean longer reach with a compact retracted length.
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Typical options include:
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3 Stage: Around 630 mm stroke and 3000 kg rating, ideal for compact tippers and utility bodies needing short closed height and dependable lift.
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4 Stage: Around 840 mm stroke and ~4600 kg rating, suited to mid-size tipping trailers where lift height must balance with chassis space.
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5 Stage: Commonly 1040 mm or 1250 mm stroke variants (with ~6000 kg rating on the 1040 mm model), and 1500 mm stroke options for greater tip angles on larger trays.
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6 Stage: Long strokes such as 1480 mm (often ~8000 kg rating) and 1780 mm for maximum tip angle with compact retracted packaging on heavy-duty builds.
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Critical fit dimensions and interfaces
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Closed length and extended length: Confirm the retracted overall length fits the hoist cradle and crossmembers, and that extended length achieves the target tip angle without over‑stroking.
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Body diameters: Common body sizes range from about Ø110–170 mm, with stepped sections (for example, Ø95–152 mm). Ensure cradle spacing accommodates the maximum body diameter.
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Through‑mounts: Typical clamp brackets size to Ø35 mm, Ø40 mm, or Ø45 mm nominal, depending on cylinder family. Pair brackets to the cylinder’s specified nominal diameter.
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Rod‑end plate: A common connection plate is 110 x 110 mm with 80 mm bolt spacing and Ø14 mm typical holes. Verify the mating hardware on the body/tray end matches this pattern.
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Ports: G3/8" BSPP is a common hydraulic connection, simplifying hose selection and keeping plumbing consistent across kits.
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Lubrication: Grease nipples are provided on the body and at the rod‑end assembly; set maintenance intervals based on duty cycle and exposure.
Mounting and bracket standards
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Clamp‑style brackets typically include:
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Base width ~140 mm with hole spacing around 108 mm
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Hole Ø about 15 mm
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Centre height to rod around 32 mm
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Base thickness ~17 mm
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Align brackets square to the cylinder axis to avoid side loading. Use high‑tensile fixings and correct torque, and consider cradle/guides where design dictates.
Selecting by application
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Light utility tipping: A 3 Stage, ~630 mm stroke, ~3000 kg rating with Ø35 mm mounts offers compact packaging and enough lift for smaller payloads.
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Medium trailers: A 4 Stage, ~840 mm stroke, ~4600 kg rating with Ø40 mm mounts provides more height and capacity with a modest footprint.
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Larger trays and heavier loads:
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5 Stage, 1040–1250 mm stroke for versatile builds; the 1040 mm version commonly rated ~6000 kg
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5 Stage, 1500 mm stroke or 6 Stage, 1480–1780 mm stroke when maximum tip angles and reach are required, often using Ø45 mm mounts and larger bodies.
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Always model the hoist geometry: pivot-to-hoist distance, tray length, and desired tip angle. Keep a safety margin to avoid bottoming or topping out at end‑of‑stroke.
Operational best practice
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Avoid lateral loads; telescopic cylinders are lifting devices, not structural members.
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Do not repeatedly hit end‑of‑stroke; configure control limits or mechanical stops.
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Use clean hydraulic oil matched to climate (e.g., ISO VG 32–46), ensure filtration, and grease nipples regularly.
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Inspect hoses, fittings, and bracket torque after run‑in, then per schedule.
