PH516 vs PH520 Dump Trailer Hoists: Comparing 8-Ton and 10-Ton Hydraulic Scissor Kits Leave a comment
Choosing between the PH516 and PH520 hydraulic scissor hoist kits is a common decision for dump trailer builders, repair shops, and trailer owners. Both models are genuine Dexter | Premium Supply hydraulic scissor hoist kits designed to provide dependable lifting performance for dump trailer applications.
The main difference comes down to dump bed length, lifting capacity, trailer design, rear overhang, dump angle, kit configuration, and the type of material you plan to haul. This guide compares the PH516 and PH520 side by side so you can choose the right dump trailer hoist with confidence.
Still comparing models? Start with our full Scissor Hoist Selection Guide or browse all Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kits.
Quick Answer: PH516 vs PH520
The PH516 hydraulic scissor hoist is rated for 8 ton / 16,000 lb capacity and fits many 10’–14’ dump trailer beds. In real-world fitment, many builders use it as a strong starting point for 12’ dump trailer beds and medium-duty dump trailer applications.
By comparison, the PH520 hydraulic scissor hoist is rated for 10 ton / 20,000 lb capacity and fits many 12’–16’ dump trailer beds. Many builders choose it as a strong starting point for 14’ dump trailer beds and heavier-duty applications.
Pro-Builder Tip: For many 12’ dump beds, the PH516 is often the better fit. For many 14’ dump beds, the PH520 is usually the stronger choice. A 16’ dump bed is at the upper end of the PH520 range, so heavier-duty 16’ applications should also be compared against larger 600 Series hydraulic scissor hoists, including the PH616-6, PH621-5, and PH621-6.
PH516 vs PH520 Comparison Table
| Feature | PH516 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist | PH520 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Capacity | 8 Ton / 16,000 lb | 10 Ton / 20,000 lb |
| Recommended Dump Bed Length | 10’–14’ | 12’–16’ |
| Common Real-World Starting Point | Many 12’ dump beds | Many 14’ dump beds |
| Hoist Type | Hydraulic Scissor Power Hoist | Hydraulic Scissor Power Hoist |
| Common Applications | Medium dump trailers, landscaping, utility, debris, mulch, dirt, and general hauling | Larger dump trailers, gravel, dirt, construction debris, commercial-style use, and heavier-duty hauling |
| Complete Kit Pump | KTI 12V DC single / double-acting hydraulic pump | KTI 12V DC single / double-acting hydraulic pump |
| Operation | Power up, power down, and gravity down on complete kits | Power up, power down, and gravity down on complete kits |
| Kit Options | Hoist Only, Standard, Deluxe, Premium, Premium HD, Premium HDX | Hoist Only, Standard, Deluxe, Premium, Premium HD, Premium HDX |
Key takeaway: The PH516 is usually the better fit for many 12’ dump beds, while the PH520 is usually the better fit for many 14’ dump beds and heavier-duty use.
Capacity Chart Comparison
Capacity is one of the biggest differences between the PH516 and PH520. Builders commonly use the PH516 for 10’–14’ dump beds and the PH520 for 12’–16’ dump beds.
Important: Because applications vary, the data in these tables should be used as a general guide only. Actual lifting performance can change based on trailer design, dump bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, hydraulic pressure, load type, and installation details.
Capacity chart assumptions: The capacity values shown are based on a water-level, non-diminishing load; a vertical height between the rear hinge pivot and the floor of no less than 3″; and hydraulic relief pressure set at 3,200 PSI.
Because of this, hoist lifting capacity is not the same as trailer payload capacity. Always follow the trailer manufacturer’s GVWR, axle rating, tire rating, coupler rating, frame limitations, and towing limits.
12’ Dump Bed Capacity: PH516 vs PH520
| Rear Overhang | PH516 at 45° | PH516 at 50° | PH520 at 45° | PH520 at 50° |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12” | 7.7 tons | 7.0 tons | 10.3 tons | 9.3 tons |
| 18” | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons | 11.4 tons | 10.4 tons |
| 24” | 9.7 tons | 8.8 tons | 12.9 tons | 11.7 tons |
12’ takeaway: The PH516 is a strong fit for many 12’ dump beds, but the PH520 offers more capacity if the trailer will see heavier use.
14’ Dump Bed Capacity: PH516 vs PH520
| Rear Overhang | PH516 at 45° | PH516 at 50° | PH520 at 45° | PH520 at 50° |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12” | 6.5 tons | 5.8 tons | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons |
| 18” | 7.0 tons | 6.4 tons | 9.3 tons | 8.5 tons |
| 24” | 7.8 tons | 7.0 tons | 10.3 tons | 9.3 tons |
14’ takeaway: The PH520 is often the better choice for many 14’ dump trailer beds because it provides more capacity for heavier-use applications.
16’ Dump Bed Capacity: PH520 Only
| Rear Overhang | PH520 at 45° | PH520 at 50° |
|---|---|---|
| 12” | 7.3 tons | 6.7 tons |
| 18” | 7.9 tons | 7.2 tons |
| 24” | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons |
16’ takeaway: A 16’ dump bed is the upper end of the PH520 range. Between the PH516 and PH520, the PH520 is the correct model to compare for 16’ applications. However, heavier-duty 16’ trailers should also be compared against larger Dexter | Premium Supply Power Hoist models such as the PH616-6, PH621-5, PH621-6, or PH625. You can also contact Johnson Trailer Parts for fitment support before ordering.
Dimension Comparison
Dimensions matter because the hoist must fit the trailer frame, dump bed, hinge location, and mounting area correctly. Although the PH516 and PH520 are both hydraulic scissor Power Hoist models, they are not identical in physical layout or mounting dimensions.
| Dimension / Fitment Detail | PH516 | PH520 |
|---|---|---|
| Common Dump Bed Range | 10’–14’ | 12’–16’ |
| Common Real-World Starting Point | Many 12’ dump beds | Many 14’ dump beds |
| Cylinder Bore / Stroke | 5″ Bore / 16″ Stroke | 5″ Bore / 20″ Stroke |
| Overall Hoist Length | 46.07″ | 52.67″ |
| Maximum Dump Angle / M Dimension | 45° = 73.00” M 50° = 66.00” M |
45° = 97.00” M 50° = 88.00” M |
| Best Use Between These Two Models | Medium-duty dump trailers and many 12’ applications | Heavier-duty dump trailers and many 14’ applications |
| 16’ Bed Use | Not the best comparison choice | Upper end of PH520 range; review chart carefully |
Dimension takeaway: The PH516 is commonly a strong fit for many 12’ dump trailer beds, while the PH520 is commonly a stronger fit for many 14’ dump beds. For 16’ dump beds, the PH520 is at the long end of its range and should be checked carefully against the capacity chart, rear overhang, and dump angle.
In comparison, the PH520 uses a longer 20″ stroke and longer overall hoist length than the PH516, which helps explain why it is commonly recommended for longer dump beds and higher-capacity applications.
What the M measurement means: The M dimension is the measurement from the hoist pivot location to the rear hinge area of the dump bed. This measurement changes depending on the desired dump angle and helps determine correct hoist placement during installation.
What Is the PH516 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist?
The PH516 hydraulic scissor hoist kit is a genuine Dexter | Premium Supply hoist kit rated for 8 ton / 16,000 lb capacity and commonly used for 10’–14’ dump beds. It is a strong fit for medium-duty dump trailer builds, replacement hoist applications, and trailers used for landscaping, utility work, debris, mulch, dirt, and general hauling.
For many builds, the PH516 is a strong choice when you want dependable lifting performance without oversizing the hoist for a shorter dump bed.
Best fit for PH516:
- Many 12’ dump trailer beds
- 10’–14’ dump bed applications where the capacity chart supports it
- Medium-duty dump trailer applications
- Landscaping and utility dump trailers
- General dirt, mulch, debris, and material hauling
Shop the PH516 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kit
What Is the PH520 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist?
The PH520 hydraulic scissor hoist kit is a genuine Dexter | Premium Supply hoist kit rated for 10 ton / 20,000 lb capacity and commonly used for 12’–16’ dump beds. It is one of the most popular options for many 14’ dump trailer applications and heavier-duty use.
In many cases, the PH520 is a strong choice for larger beds and heavier materials such as gravel, wet dirt, demolition debris, and construction material.
Best fit for PH520:
- Many 14’ dump trailer beds
- 12’–16’ dump bed applications where the capacity chart supports it
- Larger dump trailers and heavier-duty applications
- Heavier materials such as gravel, dirt, and debris
- Customers who want additional lifting capacity compared to the PH516
Note for 16’ dump beds: A 16’ dump bed is at the upper end of the PH520 range. The PH520 may be a fit for some 16’ applications where the capacity chart supports it. However, for heavier-duty 16’ builds, we often recommend reviewing the larger 600 Series hydraulic scissor hoists, such as the PH616-6, PH621-5, or PH621-6. Always check the capacity chart, rear overhang, dump angle, and load type before making a final selection.
Shop the PH520 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kit
Bed Length and Application Guide
Dump bed length is one of the first things to check when choosing between the PH516 and PH520. Each model has a more common real-world starting point based on bed size and application.
| Dump Bed Length | Best Starting Point Between PH516 and PH520 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10’ Dump Bed | PH416 or PH516 | For many 10’ dump beds, the PH416 is commonly a better starting point. The PH516 may be considered when more capacity is needed and the trailer design supports it. |
| 12’ Dump Bed | PH516 | The PH516 is commonly used on many 12’ dump trailer beds and offers a strong 8-ton option for medium-duty applications. |
| 14’ Dump Bed | PH520 | The PH520 is commonly used on many 14’ dump trailer beds and offers higher rated capacity for heavier material and more demanding use. |
| 16’ Dump Bed | PH520 or 600 Series | The PH520 is at the upper end of its recommended range on a 16’ bed. For heavier-duty 16’ builds, review the full capacity chart or contact Johnson Trailer Parts for fitment support. |
Rear Overhang and Dump Angle
Rear overhang and dump angle can have a major impact on hydraulic scissor hoist capacity. Rear overhang is the distance from the rear hinge point to the back end of the dump bed. Dump angle is how far the bed raises when dumping material.
Before ordering, compare your bed length, rear overhang, desired dump angle, load type, and trailer design instead of choosing by ton rating alone. A 45° dump angle is common for many dump trailer applications, while a 50° dump angle can help with sticky material. However, rated lifting capacity is typically lower at the steeper angle.
Choose Your Kit Level
Both the PH516 and PH520 are available in multiple configurations, including Hoist Only, Standard, Deluxe, Premium, Premium HD, and Premium HDX kits. The right choice depends on whether you need only the hoist assembly or a complete hydraulic lift system.
For example, the Standard Kit is the most common complete starting point because it includes the hoist assembly, KTI 12V DC hydraulic pump, control, hoses, fittings, safety components, battery cables, and core installation parts. Higher kit levels add charging support for customers who use their dump trailer frequently or want better battery maintenance between jobs.
Hoist Only note: Hoist Only configurations do not include the hydraulic pump, control, hoses, fittings, or electrical components. This option is intended for builders or repair shops that already have a compatible hydraulic system.
Which One Should You Buy?
The right choice depends on your trailer design, dump bed length, load type, rear overhang, dump angle, and how the trailer will be used. Both models are strong options, but they are not always used for the same applications.
Choose the PH516 if:
- Your dump bed is commonly around 12’ or within the 10’–14’ range where the capacity chart supports it
- You need an 8-ton hydraulic scissor hoist
- You are building or repairing a medium-duty dump trailer
- You haul landscaping material, mulch, dirt, debris, or general-use loads
- You want a strong hoist option without oversizing the lift system
View the PH516 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kit
Choose the PH520 if:
- Your dump bed is commonly around 14’ or within the 12’–16’ range where the capacity chart supports it
- You need a 10-ton hydraulic scissor hoist
- You haul heavier material such as gravel, wet dirt, demolition debris, or construction material
- You are comparing the PH516 and PH520 and want the stronger option between the two
- You want additional lifting capacity for heavier-duty applications
View the PH520 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kit
Professional recommendation: For many 12’ dump trailer beds, the PH516 is often a strong and efficient choice. For many 14’ dump trailer beds, the PH520 is often the preferred choice because of its higher rated capacity. A 16’ dump bed is at the upper end of the PH520 range. For heavier-duty 16’ applications, we often recommend reviewing the larger 600 Series hydraulic scissor hoists, such as the PH616-6, PH621-5, or PH621-6. Always check the capacity chart, rear overhang, dump angle, and load type before making a final selection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Between PH516 and PH520
Choosing the right dump trailer hoist is not just about picking the highest ton rating. Avoid these common mistakes before buying:
- Choosing only by ton rating: Bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, and trailer design matter too.
- Ignoring bed length: The PH516 and PH520 are designed for different bed length ranges.
- Ignoring rear overhang: Rear overhang affects leverage and lifting capacity.
- Ignoring dump angle: A steeper dump angle can reduce rated lifting capacity.
- Confusing hoist capacity with payload capacity: Trailer GVWR, axle ratings, tire ratings, and frame strength still determine safe trailer payload.
- Buying Hoist Only when you need a complete kit: Hoist Only does not include the pump, control, hoses, fittings, or electrical components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the PH516 and PH520?
The main difference is that the PH516 is an 8-ton hydraulic scissor hoist commonly selected for many 12’ dump beds, while the PH520 is a 10-ton hydraulic scissor hoist commonly selected for many 14’ dump beds.
The PH516 is rated for 8 ton / 16,000 lb capacity and works well for many 10’–14’ dump beds. In comparison, the PH520 is rated for 10 ton / 20,000 lb capacity and works well for many 12’–16’ dump beds.
Is the PH516 enough for a 12’ dump trailer?
For many 12’ dump trailer applications, the PH516 is a strong starting point. However, final selection should still be based on rear overhang, dump angle, load type, trailer design, and the capacity chart.
Is the PH516 enough for a 14’ dump trailer?
The PH516 may work for some 14’ dump trailer applications, depending on trailer design, rear overhang, dump angle, load type, and required lifting capacity. For heavier 14’ applications, many customers compare the PH516 and PH520 and choose the PH520 because it offers higher rated capacity.
Can I use the PH520 on a 14’ dump trailer?
Yes, the PH520 is commonly used for many 14’ dump trailer beds. It is often preferred when the trailer will be used for heavier materials such as dirt, gravel, debris, or construction material.
Can I use the PH520 on a 16’ dump trailer?
The PH520 can work in some 16’ dump trailer applications where the capacity chart supports it. However, 16’ is the upper end of the PH520 range. For heavier-duty 16’ applications, we often recommend reviewing the larger 600 Series hydraulic scissor hoists, such as the PH616-6, PH621-5, or PH621-6. Always check the capacity chart, rear overhang, dump angle, and load type before making a final selection.
What are the capacity chart ratings based on?
The capacity chart ratings are based on specific assumptions, including a water-level, non-diminishing load; a vertical height between the rear hinge pivot and the floor of no less than 3″; and hydraulic relief pressure set at 3,200 PSI. Actual lifting performance can vary depending on trailer design, rear overhang, dump angle, load type, hydraulic setup, and installation details.
Do PH516 and PH520 complete kits include a hydraulic pump?
Yes. Complete PH516 and PH520 kit configurations include a KTI 12V DC single / double-acting hydraulic pump designed for dump trailer applications. Hoist Only configurations do not include the pump, control, hoses, fittings, or electrical components.
Which hoist is better for gravel, dirt, and demolition debris?
Both the PH516 and PH520 can be great choices for gravel, dirt, demolition debris, and general dump trailer use when properly matched to the trailer. The main difference is rated capacity and bed size recommendation. The PH516 is commonly selected for many 12’ dump beds, while the PH520 is often preferred for many 14’ dump beds or applications where additional rated lifting capacity is needed. Final selection should still be based on bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, load type, trailer ratings, and the capacity chart.
Is the PH520 worth the upgrade?
For many 14’ dump trailer applications and heavier-duty use, the PH520 can be worth the upgrade because it provides additional rated lifting capacity compared to the PH516. However, for many 12’ beds or medium-duty applications, the PH516 may be the better value.
What is the difference between Hoist Only and Standard Kit?
Hoist Only includes the hydraulic scissor hoist assembly only and is intended for builders with an existing compatible hydraulic system. The Standard Kit includes the hoist assembly plus the KTI hydraulic pump, control, hoses, fittings, safety components, and core installation parts.
Final Recommendation
The PH516 and PH520 are both dependable Dexter | Premium Supply hydraulic scissor Power Hoist options. The best choice depends on your dump bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, and trailer design.
For many 12’ dump trailer beds, the PH516 is often a strong choice. For many 14’ dump trailer beds, the PH520 is often the better choice because of its higher rated capacity.
At Johnson Trailer Parts, we sell Dexter | Premium Supply hydraulic scissor Power Hoist kits because we trust the product, understand the applications, and have helped many customers choose the correct hoist for their dump trailer builds and repairs.
Need help choosing between the PH516 and PH520? Call Johnson Trailer Parts at (602) 292-9690 for fitment support, or compare our hydraulic scissor hoist kits.
