Selecting the Right Scissor Hoist for Your Dump Trailer Leave a comment
Selecting the Right Scissor Hoist for Your Dump Trailer
Choosing the right hydraulic scissor hoist for your dump trailer is one of the most important decisions in a dump trailer build or repair. The correct hoist helps your dump bed lift smoothly, safely, and efficiently, while the wrong hoist can cause slow lifting, poor dump angle, excessive hydraulic strain, or premature component failure.
This guide explains how to select the proper dump trailer scissor hoist based on dump bed length, lifting capacity, rear overhang, dump angle, load type, and hydraulic system setup. You’ll also find model comparison guidance for Dexter | Premium Supply Power Hoist kits, including popular options for 8’–24’ dump beds.
Use the steps and charts below to compare hydraulic scissor hoist models, understand how capacity changes by trailer design, and choose the best dump trailer hoist kit for your application. Upgrade your rig and dump with confidence!
To compare available models and kit configurations, visit our Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kits category page.
Johnson Trailer Parts supplies Dexter | Premium Supply hydraulic scissor Power Hoist kits for dump trailer builders, repair shops, and trailer owners who need dependable lifting performance, accurate fitment support, and complete kit options.
Visit the Johnson Trailer Parts YouTube channel for more dump trailer parts, hydraulic hoist, and trailer build videos.
Scissor Hoist 101: What You Need to Know
A hydraulic scissor hoist is the lifting system that raises and lowers the dump bed on a dump trailer. It uses hydraulic power to lift bulk materials such as dirt, gravel, mulch, debris, and landscaping material, helping the trailer unload smoothly and safely.
Choosing the correct dump trailer scissor hoist is important because each model is designed for a specific combination of bed length, lifting capacity, rear overhang, dump angle, and hydraulic pressure. Installing the wrong hoist can lead to slow lifting, poor dumping performance, excessive stress on the trailer frame, or hydraulic system damage.
Our Dexter | Premium Supply hydraulic scissor Power Hoist lineup includes:
These dump trailer hoist models cover applications from smaller 8’–10’ dump beds up to large 18’–24’ dump beds. Each model is built for specific bed lengths, overhangs, and rated lifting capacities, with capacity charts based on hydraulic relief pressure set at 3,200 PSI.
Dexter | Premium Supply Scissor Hoist Model Comparison
| Model | Rated Capacity | Recommended Dump Bed Length | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| PH310 | 3 Ton / 6,000 lbs | 8’–10’ | View PH310 |
| PH416 | 6 Ton / 12,000 lbs | 10’–14’ | View PH416 |
| PH516 | 8 Ton / 16,000 lbs | 10’–14’ | View PH516 |
| PH520 | 10 Ton / 20,000 lbs | 12’–16’ | View PH520 |
| PH616-5 | 8 Ton / 16,000 lbs | 12’–16’ | View PH616-5 |
| PH616-6 | 11 Ton / 22,000 lbs | 12’–16’ | View PH616-6 |
| PH621-5 | 8 Ton / 16,000 lbs | 16’–20’ | View PH621-5 |
| PH621-6 | 11 Ton / 22,000 lbs | 16’–20’ | View PH621-6 |
| PH625 | 12 Ton / 24,000 lbs | 16’–20’ | View PH625 |
| PH630 | 12 Ton / 24,000 lbs | 18’–24’ | View PH630 |
4 Simple Steps to Pick the Right Scissor Hoist
1. Measure Your Dump Bed Length
Your dump bed length is one of the first measurements used to narrow down the correct hydraulic scissor hoist. Measure the dump body from the front of the bed to the rear hinge area, then compare your trailer to the general fitment guide below.
| Dump Bed Length | Recommended Hoist Models | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 8’–10’ | PH310 | Small dump beds, light-duty dump trailer builds, and compact dump bed applications |
| 10’–14’ | PH416, PH516 | Medium dump trailers, general hauling, landscaping, utility, and repair applications |
| 12’–16’ | PH520, PH616-5, PH616-6 | Popular dump trailer sizes, heavier loads, construction, debris, dirt, and gravel hauling |
| 16’–20’ | PH621-5, PH621-6, PH625 | Longer dump beds, commercial trailer builds, and heavier-duty dump trailer use |
| 18’–24’ | PH630 | Large long-bed dump trailers and heavy-duty dump bed applications |
Pro Tip: This table is a general recommendation guide. Some hoist models may appear in capacity charts for overlapping bed lengths, but the best choice depends on bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, load type, GVWR, axle ratings, and trailer design. Always compare the capacity chart before final selection.
“A” is the total dump bed length in feet. “B” is the rear overhang past the hinge in inches.
2. Check the Rear Overhang
Rear overhang is the distance from the rear hinge point to the back end of the dump bed. This measurement affects leverage, load distribution, and lifting capacity. In many scissor hoist capacity charts, a longer rear overhang can increase the rated lifting capacity of the same hoist at a given dump angle.
The Dexter | Premium Supply capacity charts show lifting capacity based on bed length, rear overhang — commonly 12”, 18”, or 24” — and dump angle, usually 45° or 50°.
Example: PH520 hydraulic scissor hoist with a 14’ dump bed
| Rear Overhang | 45° Capacity | 50° Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 12” | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons |
| 18” | 9.3 tons | 8.5 tons |
| 24” | 10.3 tons | 9.3 tons |
In this example, the PH520 hydraulic scissor Power Hoist gains lifting capacity as the rear overhang increases. On a 14’ dump bed at a 45° dump angle, capacity increases from 8.6 tons with a 12” overhang to 10.3 tons with a 24” overhang.
Important: Hoist lifting capacity is not the same as trailer payload capacity. Your trailer’s GVWR, axle rating, tire rating, frame design, coupler rating, and legal weight limits determine the safe working load of the trailer.
For example, a 14,000 lb GVWR trailer that weighs 4,000 lbs empty is generally limited to approximately 10,000 lbs of payload, even if the hoist capacity chart shows the hoist can lift more. Always follow your trailer manufacturer’s ratings and never exceed the trailer’s GVWR or gross axle weight rating.
Trailer Overloading Warning: Overloading a trailer can cause equipment failure, unsafe towing conditions, property damage, serious injury, or death. Never exceed your trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating, gross axle weight rating, tire rating, or tow vehicle limits.
3. Choose Your Dump Angle
Dump angle affects both unloading performance and lifting capacity. A steeper dump angle can help sticky or compacted material slide out of the bed, but it usually reduces the rated lifting capacity of the hoist.
- 45° Dump Angle: Common for many dump trailer applications and often works well for loose materials such as gravel, sand, mulch, and dry debris.
- 50° Dump Angle: A steeper angle that can help with wet dirt, clay, compacted material, or loads that do not slide easily. Capacity is typically lower at 50° than at 45°.
When comparing scissor hoist models, always check the capacity chart for the dump angle you plan to use. Do not choose a hoist based only on the highest listed ton rating.
4. Choose the Right Hydraulic Power Setup
All complete Johnson Trailer Parts hydraulic scissor hoist kits include a KTI 12V DC single / double-acting hydraulic power unit designed for dump trailer applications. This pump setup supports power up, power down, and gravity down operation, giving you flexible control over the dump bed while helping conserve battery power when using gravity-down mode.
- Power Up: Uses hydraulic pressure to raise the dump bed.
- Power Down: Uses hydraulic pressure to lower the dump bed.
- Gravity Down: Allows the dump bed to lower using gravity, helping conserve battery power.
Note: Hoist Only configurations do not include the hydraulic pump, control, hoses, fittings, or electrical components. Hoist Only is intended for builders who already have a compatible hydraulic system.
For pump setup details, see the KTI single / double-acting hydraulic pump instructions.
Scissor Hoist Kit Options
Johnson Trailer Parts offers multiple hydraulic scissor hoist kit configurations so builders can choose the setup that best matches their trailer build, repair, or upgrade.
- Hoist Only: Best for builders who already have compatible hydraulic and electrical components.
- Standard Kit: Includes the hoist assembly, KTI hydraulic pump, control, hoses, fittings, safety components, and core installation parts.
- Deluxe Kit: Includes the Standard Kit plus basic battery charging support.
- Premium Kit: Adds a Battery Optimizer Kit with road charging and solar charging support.
- Premium HD Kit: Adds upgraded charging components for heavier-use dump trailer applications.
- Premium HDX Kit: Offers the highest charging support package for demanding dump trailer use.
For most new dump trailer builds, the Standard Kit is the most common starting point. For trailers used frequently, parked for long periods, or used in demanding work environments, the Premium, Premium HD, or Premium HDX configurations can help improve battery maintenance and charging performance.
Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Capacity Charts
The charts below show example lifting capacities for several popular Dexter | Premium Supply hydraulic scissor Power Hoist models. These capacity charts compare dump bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, and lifting capacity to help you better understand how trailer design affects hoist performance.
Important Note: Because every dump trailer application is different, this data should be used as a general guide only. Final hoist selection depends on your trailer design, bed length, rear hinge location, overhang, dump angle, load type, hydraulic system, GVWR, axle rating, and overall trailer construction.
Capacities are based on the following conditions:
- Water-level, non-diminishing load.
- Vertical height between the rear hinge pivot and the floor is no less than 3 inches.
- Hydraulic system relief pressure set at 3,200 PSI.
Want to see the charts for every model? View the complete Dexter | Premium Supply Installation Manual for full capacity charts, installation details, and model-specific specifications.
To compare available models and kit configurations, visit our Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kits category page.
PH416 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Capacity Chart
The PH416 hydraulic scissor Power Hoist is commonly used for 10’–14’ dump bed applications.
| Bed Length | Rear Overhang | 45° Capacity | 50° Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10’ | 12” | 9.3 tons | 8.4 tons |
| 10’ | 18” | 10.6 tons | 9.6 tons |
| 10’ | 24” | 12.4 tons | 11.2 tons |
| 12’ | 12” | 7.4 tons | 6.7 tons |
| 12’ | 18” | 8.3 tons | 7.5 tons |
| 12’ | 24” | 9.3 tons | 8.4 tons |
| 14’ | 12” | 6.2 tons | 5.6 tons |
| 14’ | 18” | 6.8 tons | 6.1 tons |
| 14’ | 24” | 7.4 tons | 6.7 tons |
PH516 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Capacity Chart
The PH516 hydraulic scissor Power Hoist is commonly used for 10’–14’ dump bed applications where additional lifting capacity is needed.
| Bed Length | Rear Overhang | 45° Capacity | 50° Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10’ | 12” | 9.7 tons | 8.8 tons |
| 10’ | 18” | 11.1 tons | 10.0 tons |
| 10’ | 24” | 12.9 tons | 11.7 tons |
| 12’ | 12” | 7.7 tons | 7.0 tons |
| 12’ | 18” | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons |
| 12’ | 24” | 9.7 tons | 8.8 tons |
| 14’ | 12” | 6.5 tons | 5.8 tons |
| 14’ | 18” | 7.0 tons | 6.4 tons |
| 14’ | 24” | 7.8 tons | 7.0 tons |
PH520 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Capacity Chart
The PH520 hydraulic scissor Power Hoist is one of the most popular options for 12’–16’ dump trailer beds.
| Bed Length | Rear Overhang | 45° Capacity | 50° Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12’ | 12” | 10.3 tons | 9.3 tons |
| 12’ | 18” | 11.4 tons | 10.4 tons |
| 12’ | 24” | 12.9 tons | 11.7 tons |
| 14’ | 12” | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons |
| 14’ | 18” | 9.3 tons | 8.5 tons |
| 14’ | 24” | 10.3 tons | 9.3 tons |
| 16’ | 12” | 7.3 tons | 6.7 tons |
| 16’ | 18” | 7.9 tons | 7.2 tons |
| 16’ | 24” | 8.6 tons | 7.8 tons |
PH630 Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Capacity Chart
The PH630 hydraulic scissor Power Hoist is the largest long-bed hoist option in this lineup and is commonly used for 18’–24’ dump bed applications.
| Bed Length | Rear Overhang | 45° Capacity | 50° Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18’ | 12” | 13.5 tons | 12.2 tons |
| 18’ | 18” | 14.4 tons | 13.1 tons |
| 18’ | 24” | 15.4 tons | 14.0 tons |
| 20’ | 12” | 12.5 tons | 10.9 tons |
| 20’ | 18” | 12.7 tons | 11.5 tons |
| 20’ | 24” | 13.5 tons | 12.2 tons |
| 24’ | 12” | 9.8 tons | 8.9 tons |
| 24’ | 18” | 10.3 tons | 9.3 tons |
| 24’ | 24” | 10.8 tons | 9.8 tons |
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydraulic Scissor Hoists
What size scissor hoist do I need for my dump trailer?
The correct scissor hoist depends on your dump bed length, rear overhang, dump angle, load type, trailer GVWR, axle rating, and frame design. Start with your bed length, then compare the capacity chart for the hoist model you are considering.
What is the best scissor hoist for a 12’–16’ dump trailer?
For many 12’–16’ dump trailer beds, the PH520, PH616-5, or PH616-6 are common options. The best choice depends on the lifting capacity needed, rear overhang, dump angle, and trailer design.
What is the best scissor hoist for a 10’–14’ dump trailer?
For many 10’–14’ dump trailer beds, the PH416 or PH516 are common options. The PH516 is often selected when additional lifting capacity is needed, but final selection should be based on the capacity chart and trailer design.
Does a Hoist Only kit include the hydraulic pump?
No. Hoist Only configurations do not include the hydraulic pump, control, hoses, fittings, or electrical components. Hoist Only is intended for builders who already have a compatible hydraulic system.
Do complete hydraulic scissor hoist kits include a pump?
Yes. Complete Johnson Trailer Parts hydraulic scissor hoist kits include a KTI 12V DC single / double-acting hydraulic power unit designed for dump trailer applications. These complete kit configurations support power up, power down, and gravity down operation.
What is rear overhang on a dump trailer?
Rear overhang is the distance from the rear hinge point to the back end of the dump bed. This measurement affects leverage and lifting capacity, so it should be checked before selecting a hydraulic scissor hoist.
Is hoist capacity the same as trailer payload capacity?
No. Hoist lifting capacity is not the same as trailer payload capacity. Your trailer’s GVWR, axle rating, tire rating, frame strength, coupler rating, and tow vehicle limits determine the safe working load of the trailer.
What is the difference between power up, power down, and gravity down?
Power up uses hydraulic pressure to raise the dump bed. Power down uses hydraulic pressure to lower the dump bed. Gravity down allows the dump bed to lower using gravity, helping conserve battery power.
What dump angle should I use for a dump trailer?
A 45° dump angle is common for many dump trailer applications and works well for loose materials such as gravel, sand, mulch, and dry debris. A 50° dump angle can help with wet dirt, clay, or compacted material, but rated lifting capacity is typically lower at the steeper angle.
Where can I compare hydraulic scissor hoist kit models?
You can compare available models and kit configurations on our Hydraulic Scissor Hoist Kits category page. For help choosing the right model, contact Johnson Trailer Parts for fitment support.
Final Tips for Choosing a Dump Trailer Scissor Hoist
Choose by bed length and capacity: Start with your dump bed length, then compare the lifting capacity chart for your planned overhang and dump angle.
Factor in rear overhang: Rear overhang affects leverage and lifting capacity. A longer rear overhang can increase hoist lifting capacity in many applications, but it must still be compatible with your trailer design.
Check the dump angle: A 45° dump angle is common for loose loads like gravel, sand, and dry debris. A 50° dump angle can help with sticky material such as wet dirt or clay, but rated lifting capacity is typically lower at the steeper angle.
Know your trailer limits: Hoist capacity does not override trailer GVWR, axle ratings, tire ratings, frame strength, coupler rating, or tow vehicle limits. Always stay within the safe and legal ratings for your trailer.
Choosing the right hydraulic scissor hoist is only part of building or maintaining a safe dump trailer. Understanding your trailer’s weight limits, hydraulic system, bed design, and intended load type is essential for safe and efficient hauling.
At Johnson Trailer Parts, we supply hydraulic scissor hoist kits, trailer parts, and expert support for builders, repair shops, and trailer owners. Whether you are upgrading, repairing, or building from scratch, our team can help you choose the right dump trailer hoist kit for your application.
Need help choosing a scissor hoist? Call Johnson Trailer Parts at (602) 292-9690 for fitment support.
Ready to compare models? Shop all hydraulic scissor hoist kits from Johnson Trailer Parts.
