Ground Rollers

Ground rollers for the tail gate – Components for controlled ground contact

Ground rollers perform a key technical function on a tail gate system. They form the first point of contact with the ground and stabilise the platform during lowering by preventing the lift frame and adjacent components from touching the surface directly. At the same time, they guide the platform into its end position and maintain a controlled movement path. At the lower contact points of a lift gate, ground rollers provide support and guidance throughout the lower motion range. In this category, you will find ground rollers engineered for the structural requirements of modern tail gate systems. SULEJ Ladebordwand relies on verified components that ensure stable platform guidance and reliable ground-contact regulation.

Function and design – Ground rollers as support and guiding elements

Ground rollers guide the platform smoothly onto the ground during lowering while compensating for minor uneven surfaces. They prevent the lift frame or adjacent structures from touching the ground and stabilise the motion in its end position. The rolling behaviour reduces point-loads on lifting arms, brackets and cylinder mountings, protecting the mechanical structure. During retraction, ground rollers ensure controlled guidance along the designated movement path and support a defined lowering and retraction sequence. At the lower sections of a lift gate, they provide essential support and guiding behaviour, especially under dynamic conditions.

Materials and designs – Technical variants for tail gate applications

Ground rollers are manufactured in various plastic designs adapted to load capacity, ground characteristics and the structural requirements of a lift gate. Polyurethane (PU) rollers offer high load capacity, smooth rolling behaviour and low noise levels. Polyamide rollers provide exceptional wear resistance and chemical stability, making them ideal for demanding applications. In some cases, rollers with rubber-coated surfaces are used to further reduce noise or protect sensitive ground surfaces.

Depending on the system layout, rollers can be supplied as complete units with an integrated axle or as single roller bodies mounted to existing brackets. Diameter, width and bearing type vary depending on the tail gate model and determine load capacity, rolling behaviour and surface interaction. At the lower contact areas of a tail lift, the same structural requirements apply. The correct selection depends on dimensional compatibility and the design specifications of the associated system.

Functional inspection and wear assessment – Evaluating rolling contact points

Regular visual inspections of ground rollers help detect wear at an early stage. Indications of material degradation include changes in rolling behaviour, flat spots, cracks or breakouts on the running surfaces. It should also be checked whether the rollers rotate freely and are not obstructed by dirt or foreign particles. At the lower contact areas of a lift gate, the same inspection is required to identify functional deviations in time. Replacing worn components prevents load peaks at adjacent bearing points and ensures consistent operational capability.

Component precision and load capacity – Requirements for rollers and contact surfaces

Ground rollers must meet high standards for dimensional accuracy, material quality and bearing design. Precisely manufactured rolling surfaces ensure even ground contact, prevent point-loading and distribute forces uniformly across the platform structure. Robust bearings provide defined rotational behaviour and minimise resistance during movement. At the lower contact points of a tail lift, changing loads require adequately dimensioned rollers with stable bearings. The components offered are selected based on material characteristics, load profiles and compatibility criteria to ensure reliable support and guiding performance. SULEJ Ladebordwand adheres to the technical specifications of each platform design.

Advantages at a glance – Ground-roller technology for stable platform guidance

• Support function protecting the lower platform structure
• Consistent guidance during lowering and retraction
• Reduced stress on lift arms, brackets and cylinder mountings
• Stable rolling behaviour thanks to optimised materials and precise bearing technology

The ground rollers offered here are suitable for common tail gates and lift gates. They ensure controlled movement and a reliable support function at the ground-contact area.

Frequently asked questions about ground rollers for tail gates and lift gates (FAQ)

When should ground rollers be replaced?

Replacement is necessary when rollers show flat spots, cracks, material breakouts or when the rotation is impaired.

How do I find the correct ground roller?

Diameter, width, axle mount and the installed bearing type are essential. Dimensional data, technical drawings or the lift gate serial number help identify the correct model.

Can a ground roller be replaced by the user?

Replacement is possible if sufficient technical understanding is available and safe access to the mounting points is ensured. The tail gate must be safely secured during the procedure. If access is limited or unclear, replacement should be performed by a professional workshop.

What differentiates the roller materials?

Polyurethane and polyamide are the most common options. Polyurethane offers excellent load capacity and gentle rolling behaviour, while polyamide provides outstanding wear resistance and reduced noise. Rubber-coated variants are used where additional noise reduction is required.

Why do ground rollers generate noise?

Noise can be caused by dirt, damaged bearings or advanced material wear. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, the roller should be replaced.