A tipping cab controller with a PTO switch and bracket contains all the necessary parts to create an assembly for controlling your truck’s tipper body.
Once built, the controller lets you manage the raising and lowering of the tipper body after engaging the power take-off switch.
Tipping cab controllers are not one-size-fits-all devices. They have specifications that determine their maximum pressure and port and inlet sizes. For complete compatibility, these need to be matched to your hydraulics.
An example specification
Our product linked above has these specs:
- Max Pressure: 10 Bar
- Min Pressure: 5 Bar
- PTO Port: 1/8″ BSP
- Air Inlet: 1/8″ BSP
- Tipping Port: 1/8″ BSP
- Lowering Port: 1/8″ BSP
These specifications make it suitable for medium-duty applications. The 10 Bar (approximately 145 PSI) pressure is capable of operating tippers in most commercial vehicles, save for the heaviest industrial ones.
Related: Making sense of truck hydraulics
The PTO you select must be able to handle the torque load and horsepower specifications of the system in which it will operate. Underpowered systems won’t perform adequately, and overpowered systems risk damaging other lifting equipment.
Using the controller
The assembly bolts onto the rig, and the unit is connected to a pneumatic system that provides power to the controller.
The controller has a lever/joystick for directional control of the tipper body and a switch to engage the mechanism with ON/OFF control.
The lever’s movement is relatively fine, allowing proportional control of distribution valves for raising and lowering tipper equipment.
Related: An expert guide to wet kits
Engaging the PTO requires stopping your vehicle, applying the parking brake, putting the gearbox in neutral, and decreasing engine revs.
Never tip if there’s any chance the truck may topple sideways or backward, and never drive with the PTO engaged or the dump body raised.
Durability and lifespan
Tipper controllers are rugged units. The only danger comes from external damage from impacts and heavy misuse. We’ve seen controllers and PTO switches outlast the tippers they power, sometimes over 20 years.
The tipping cab controller with PTO switch and bracket we stock is an industrial-grade product made from stainless steel and rubberised plastic. It’s built to withstand thousands of tipping cycles and heavy use.
Some upkeep is expected of the tipper equipment, but the controller and PTO switch are more of a sealed unit with little that can go wrong.
Find out more
With over 20 years of experience selling commercial vehicle parts, we can help you specify the best tipping cab controller and PTO. Call 01262 601600.
Further reading: A quick guide to control valves for truck hydraulics
