Sliding Cylinders

Slide cylinders – horizontal movement of the platform at the rear portal

Slide cylinders move the platform of a retractable tail lift horizontally under the vehicle body or back out of it. They translate the hydraulic pressure into a straight longitudinal movement along the guide rails at the rear portal. At SULEJ Ladebordwand you will find slide cylinders in different stroke lengths and connection patterns, matched to the installed component and available in various sizes and connection variants – a specific element for the translation movement of the platform.

Translation movement along the guide rail – the concept behind it

Unlike lift or folding cylinders, the slide cylinder does not generate vertical movement but shifts the platform with its running gear along a horizontal rail guide. Long stroke lengths are typical, the working pressure is often kept more moderate compared to lift cylinders. Double-acting designs allow controlled extension and retraction, while single-acting versions combine a spring package or a pull cable for the return path. Rod guide, bushings and end-of-stroke damping are designed so that the platform comes to a quiet stop at the rail end.

Rail guide in focus – service points during replacement

When replacing a slide cylinder, the rail guide also belongs on the inspection bench: worn rollers, expanded mounts or bent rails increase friction and overload the new cylinder. Pay attention to the correct stroke length, the matching connection pattern and a clean alignment of the cylinder tube with the rail. After installation the end-of-stroke damping is checked in a slow test run – the platform must not hit the rail stop hard.

Benefits at a glance

• Controlled horizontal movement of the platform along the guide rail
• Long stroke lengths for complete retraction and extension of the platform
• Robust rod guide and end-of-stroke damping for quiet operation
• Compatible with common rail guides and high-pressure lines

A precisely working slide cylinder is the prerequisite for an orderly retraction and extension of the platform under the body and therefore for a compact, driving-ready state of the vehicle.