Custom Hoists 5000 Series Telescopic Hydraulic Cylinder

Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Custom Hoists, Inc.
Product Series: 5000 Series
Product Type: Single-acting telescopic hydraulic cylinder
Construction: Hybrid North American tube-size design with European-style proportions
Number of Stages: Three, four, or five, depending on model
Published Stroke Range: Approximately 120.38 to 279.88 inches
Largest Published Moving Stage: 6, 7, 8, or 9 inches, depending on model
Primary Applications: Dump trucks, dump trailers, transfer trailers, and specialized vocational equipment
Primary Function: Raises a dump body through an extended tipping range
Production Status: Current product family

Overview

The Custom Hoists 5000 Series is a family of single-acting telescopic hydraulic cylinders developed for dump trucks, dump trailers, and other mobile equipment requiring a long working stroke from a compact retracted package.

Custom Hoists describes the 5000 Series as a hybrid design that combines large North American tube sizes with a European-style cylinder profile. Published models use three, four, or five telescopic stages and cover a wide range of stroke lengths for different truck and trailer body configurations.

The cylinder extends when pressurized hydraulic oil enters the assembly. When the control valve is moved to the lowering position, the weight of the dump body retracts the stages and returns the oil to the reservoir.

Key Characteristics

Single-acting telescopic hydraulic design
Hybrid construction using large North American tube sizes
Compact European-style cylinder profile
Three-, four-, and five-stage models
Published strokes from approximately 120 to 280 inches
First moving stages from 6 to 9 inches, depending on model
Single high-performance U-cup sealing system
V-packing configurations available
Heavy-duty wiper design
Compact closed length relative to total extension
Designed for mobile hydraulic applications
Multiple models for different body lengths and mounting requirements

Major Components

Outer cylinder body
Nested telescopic stages
Final plunger stage
Base mounting assembly
Upper plunger mounting eye
Hydraulic inlet port
High-performance U-cup seals
Optional V-packing arrangement
Heavy-duty stage wipers
Stage bearings and guides
Head nuts
Retaining components
Bleeding provisions
Mounting pins and retainers

Product Type and Construction

The 5000 Series uses multiple tubular stages that nest inside the main cylinder body when retracted. This construction allows the cylinder to produce a working stroke several times longer than its closed length.

The series uses a hybrid design intended to combine the dimensional and service characteristics associated with North American mobile cylinders with the compact appearance of European-style front-end telescopic cylinders.

Custom Hoists identifies a single high-performance U-cup seal as standard construction, with V-packing available for applications requiring that sealing arrangement. Heavy-duty wipers help limit the entry of dirt, moisture, and abrasive material as the stages retract.

How the Telescopic Hydraulic Cylinder Works

When the operator engages the power take-off and selects the raise function, the hydraulic pump draws oil from the reservoir and delivers it through the control valve to the cylinder.

Hydraulic pressure acts against the internal area of the largest moving stage. That stage normally extends first. As it reaches the end of its travel, the next smaller stage begins extending. This process continues until the required body angle or full cylinder extension is reached.

Moving the control to lower opens the return path to the reservoir. The weight of the dump body forces the cylinder stages to retract in sequence. Because the standard cylinder is single-acting, hydraulic power raises the body while gravity supplies the primary retracting force.

Position and Function Within the Vehicle

The 5000 Series is normally installed between the truck or trailer structure and the forward portion of the dump body. The base attaches to an engineered lower mounting structure, while the upper end connects to the body.

As the cylinder extends, it raises the front of the body while the body rotates around its rear hinge. The cylinder mounting points must allow the assembly to follow the body’s changing angle without binding or creating damaging lateral forces.

The cylinder provides lifting force only. It is not a substitute for a mechanical body prop and must never be relied upon as the sole support for a raised dump body.

Common Specifications

Cylinder Type: Single-acting telescopic hydraulic cylinder
Available Stage Counts: Three, four, or five
Published Stroke Range: 120.38 to 279.88 inches
Published Closed-Length Range: 48.25 to 78.63 inches
Published Extended-Length Range: 173.38 to 358.50 inches
First Moving Stage: 6, 7, 8, or 9 inches, depending on model
Seal Design: High-performance U-cup with V-packing available
Wiper Design: Heavy-duty stage wipers
Retraction Method: Gravity-powered body lowering
Hydraulic Supply: Application-matched PTO, pump, reservoir, control valve, hoses, and filtration
Mounting: Model- and application-specific base and upper mounts

Stroke, Stage Count, and Operating Capacity

The 5000 Series includes models covering a substantial range of dump-body and trailer requirements. Current published configurations include:

Three-stage models with approximately 120.38- and 140.62-inch strokes
Four-stage models with approximately 134.69- to 166.06-inch strokes
Five-stage models with approximately 168.56- to 279.88-inch strokes
Six-inch first stages on published three-stage models
Seven-inch first stages on published four-stage models
Eight- and nine-inch first stages on published five-stage models

Stroke and stage count do not independently determine whether a cylinder can lift a particular body. Capacity depends on hydraulic pressure, moving-stage area, mounting position, body-hinge geometry, payload distribution, initial lift angle, and the changing mechanical relationship between the cylinder and body.

Hydraulic Pressure, Flow, and Cycle Speed

System pressure determines the force available from the cylinder. Hydraulic flow determines how quickly the cylinder fills and extends. Both must remain within the ratings established for the exact cylinder, pump, valve, hoses, fittings, reservoir, and body installation.

Excessive flow can produce overly rapid extension, harsh stage transitions, hydraulic heat, or poor operator control. Insufficient flow can make the lifting cycle unreasonably slow. Pump displacement and PTO speed must be selected for the required cylinder oil volume and intended cycle time.

The pressure-relief valve must be correctly selected and adjusted. Increasing relief pressure is not an acceptable solution for an overloaded body, poor mounting geometry, or an undersized cylinder.

Hydraulic Circuit and System Integration

A complete hydraulic system supporting the 5000 Series commonly includes:

Transmission-mounted power take-off
Hydraulic pump
Hydraulic reservoir
Raise, hold, and lower control valve
Pressure-relief protection
Hydraulic supply and return hoses
Properly rated fittings
Reservoir breather
Hydraulic filtration
In-cab or remote controls
Custom Hoists 5000 Series cylinder

Custom Hoists offers wet-kit components, including pumps, reservoirs, tipping valves, and pneumatic hoist controls. Each component must be matched to the selected cylinder and completed vehicle application.

Controls and Operating Functions

The cylinder normally operates through a three-position raise, hold, and lower control. Depending on the installation, the valve may be operated through a mechanical cable, pneumatic control, electric switch, or electronically managed body-control system.

The hold position interrupts normal oil flow and temporarily maintains the body position. It must not be treated as a safety lock. Internal leakage, external leakage, hose failure, valve movement, or component damage can allow the body to descend unexpectedly.

Mounting and Installation

The cylinder must be installed according to the geometry approved for the dump body, trailer, subframe, and chassis. The base and upper mounting points must remain aligned through the complete lifting cycle and allow the cylinder to pivot without binding.

The mounting structure must distribute cylinder forces into the body and frame without concentrating stress in unsupported areas. Pins, brackets, crossmembers, and reinforcements must match the loads produced by the selected cylinder.

Hydraulic hoses require enough movement for the body’s full range of travel. Routing must protect them from abrasion, heat, crushing, pinching, stretching, and contact with moving stages or body components.

Vehicle Frame and Body Compatibility

Compatibility depends on:

Truck or trailer frame construction
Subframe strength
Dump-body length and design
Rear-hinge location
Body and payload center of gravity
Available closed-cylinder space
Required stroke and dump angle
Base and upper mounting dimensions
Hydraulic pressure and flow
Reservoir capacity
Hose-routing clearance
Cab, exhaust, driveline, and equipment clearance
Vehicle axle and gross weight ratings

A cylinder should not be substituted solely because it has a similar stroke or stage count. Closed length, mounting centers, stage diameters, port arrangement, oil requirements, extended length, and hoist geometry must also be confirmed.

Common Applications

Construction dump trucks
Municipal dump trucks
Severe-service dump trucks
End-dump trailers
Transfer trailers
Aggregate-hauling equipment
Demolition and debris-hauling vehicles
Road-construction vehicles
Mining-support equipment
Specialized vocational trucks and trailers

Advantages

Long working stroke from a compact closed length
Three-, four-, and five-stage configurations
Wide selection of published stroke lengths
Large moving-stage options for different lifting requirements
Hybrid North American and European-style construction
High-performance U-cup sealing design
V-packing available for applicable configurations
Heavy-duty wipers help resist contamination
Compatible with properly engineered truck and trailer wet kits
Manufacturer technical and service resources are available

Limitations or Considerations

Requires application-specific cylinder and mounting selection
Cannot safely tolerate significant side loading
Requires clean hydraulic oil and effective contamination control
Depends on gravity and body weight for normal retraction
Long stages can be damaged by misalignment or body movement
Incorrect pressure or flow can damage the cylinder and structure
Model numbers with similar strokes may not be interchangeable
Cold hydraulic oil can slow cylinder operation
A raised body requires an approved mechanical support
Improper loading or unstable ground can create rollover risk

Driver and Operator Experience

A correctly installed 5000 Series cylinder should raise the body smoothly and predictably. The operator may notice changes in speed as different stages extend because each stage has a different effective hydraulic area.

Operators should stop the lifting cycle immediately if the body leans, the cylinder binds, the stages move violently, the vehicle becomes unstable, or the load fails to release evenly.

The vehicle should be positioned on firm, reasonably level ground with adequate overhead and rear clearance before the body is raised. Loads that are frozen, wet, or concentrated on one side require particular caution.

Operating Procedure

A general operating sequence includes the following steps. The instructions supplied with the vehicle, body, PTO, pump, valve, and cylinder take priority.

Park on firm and stable ground.
Apply the parking brake and follow the vehicle’s operating procedure.
Check overhead, side, and rear clearance.
Confirm that the load is evenly distributed and suitable for dumping.
Engage the power take-off according to its operating instructions.
Move the hydraulic control to raise while monitoring the body and vehicle.
Stop immediately if the body leans, binds, or moves abnormally.
Discharge the load without exceeding the approved body angle or cylinder travel.
Move the control to lower and allow the body to descend smoothly.
Confirm that the body is fully seated before disengaging the PTO.

Inspection and Wear Points

Telescopic stages for scoring, dents, corrosion, or contamination
U-cup seals or V-packing for leakage
Heavy-duty wipers for damage or displacement
Stage bearings and guides for excessive movement
Head nuts and retaining components
Cylinder body for impact damage or distortion
Base and upper mounting pins
Mounting brackets and crossmembers
Hydraulic port and fittings
Hydraulic hoses for cracking, abrasion, or blistering
Body hinge and subframe
Reservoir oil level and condition

Lubrication Requirements

Use hydraulic oil meeting the requirements established for the complete wet kit and expected operating temperature. The oil must be compatible with the cylinder seals, pump, valve, hoses, and filtration components.

Mounting pins, dump-body hinges, and other external grease points should be lubricated according to the equipment manufacturer’s schedule. Do not coat exposed stages with heavy grease unless specifically instructed because grease can retain abrasive contamination and interfere with stage wipers.

Maintenance and Ownership Notes

Routine maintenance includes inspecting the telescopic stages, checking for leakage, confirming secure mounting hardware, servicing the hydraulic fluid and filtration system, and examining the dump-body structure and hinges.

Custom Hoists notes that a light film of hydraulic oil can appear on a plunger during normal operation. A small accumulation after repeated cycles should be evaluated according to the manufacturer’s service guidance rather than automatically being treated as packing failure.

If internal damage requires complete disassembly, Custom Hoists recommends inspecting all components and installing the appropriate major repair kit. Major cylinder repair should be performed by Custom Hoists or a qualified service facility with suitable lifting and cylinder-handling equipment.

Common Hydraulic Cylinder Problems

Cylinder will not extend: A disengaged PTO, low reservoir level, failed pump, blocked hose, incorrect valve position, excessive load, or hydraulic failure may prevent operation.
Slow cylinder operation: Low pump flow, cold oil, restricted plumbing, low engine speed, air in the system, contamination, or internal wear may reduce cycle speed.
Cylinder will not retract: A restricted return circuit, valve problem, mechanical interference, bent stage, poor alignment, or insufficient body weight can prevent gravity retraction.
External oil leakage: Damaged seals, worn packing, scored stages, loose fittings, or damaged hoses may allow oil to escape.
Stages bind or extend unevenly: Misalignment, contamination, damaged bearings, bent stages, side loading, or structural movement may interfere with normal sequencing.
Body drifts downward: Internal cylinder bypass, valve leakage, hose failure, or an external leak may allow the body to descend.
Hydraulic system overheats: Excessive pump speed, prolonged relief-valve operation, restricted lines, insufficient reservoir capacity, or contaminated oil may generate excessive heat.
Mounting damage: Loose pins, cracked brackets, worn bushings, misalignment, overloading, or improper body geometry can damage the mounting structure.

Safety and Service Precautions

Never work beneath a raised body supported only by the hydraulic cylinder.
Install the approved body prop or blocking system before service.
Relieve stored hydraulic pressure before disconnecting components.
Keep personnel clear of the body, cylinder, hinges, tailgate, and pinch points.
Do not use bare hands to search for hydraulic leaks.
Treat hydraulic fluid-injection injuries as medical emergencies.
Do not exceed the pressure rating of any system component.
Do not operate a bent, scored, leaking, or misaligned cylinder.
Do not raise a loaded body on unstable or severely sloped ground.
Use suitable lifting equipment when removing or servicing the cylinder.
Follow lockout, tagout, and stored-energy procedures.

Identification Information

Custom Hoists places model and serial information on the cylinder body or an attached identification plate. Record:

Complete model or part number
Serial number
Number of stages
Stroke length
Closed length
Extended length
First moving-stage diameter
Base mounting dimensions
Upper mounting dimensions
Hydraulic-port size and location
Seal or packing configuration
Truck, trailer, and body information

Cylinders manufactured during different periods may carry identification in different locations. Older cylinders may have the model and serial number stamped directly into the outside diameter of the body, while later units may use a welded identification plate.

Buying Considerations

Confirm the complete model and serial number.
Verify the required stage count.
Match the stroke and closed length.
Confirm the extended length and intended body angle.
Match the first moving-stage diameter.
Verify base and upper mounting dimensions.
Confirm hydraulic-port size and orientation.
Determine the required seal or packing configuration.
Match the cylinder to the dump-body geometry.
Verify hydraulic pressure, pump flow, and reservoir capacity.
Inspect the frame, subframe, hinges, and mounting structure.
Confirm repair-kit and replacement-parts availability.
Use a qualified truck-equipment installer.

Variants and Configurations

Three-stage, six-inch first-stage models
Four-stage, seven-inch first-stage models
Five-stage, eight-inch first-stage models
Five-stage, nine-inch first-stage models
Stroke lengths from approximately 120 to 280 inches
Different closed and extended lengths
High-performance U-cup sealing
Available V-packing configurations
Application-specific mounting arrangements
Different hydraulic-port and installation requirements

Published models include 63-5402, 74-5401, 85-5402, and 95-5461 configurations. The complete model suffix identifies the specific stroke and dimensional arrangement.

Comparison to Similar Equipment

Compared with the Mailhot G3 Telescopic Hydraulic Cylinder, the Custom Hoists 5000 Series uses a different model structure, seal design, dimensional range, and mounting arrangement. Compatibility must be established using complete engineering specifications.

Compared with the Hyva Alpha Series Front-End Cylinder, the 5000 Series offers a Custom Hoists hybrid design with published three-, four-, and five-stage configurations. Neither cylinder should be substituted based only on nominal stroke or body length.

Compared with an underbody scissor hoist, the 5000 Series is a telescopic cylinder that normally lifts the forward portion of the body directly. An underbody hoist uses a cylinder and mechanical linkage mounted beneath the body.

Best Fit For

Vehicles originally engineered for a Custom Hoists 5000 Series cylinder
Dump trucks requiring long telescopic extension
End-dump trailers
Transfer trailers
Construction and aggregate-hauling equipment
Applications needing three-, four-, or five-stage configurations
Installations requiring a compact closed length
Fleets with access to qualified hydraulic service support

Related Vehicle and Trailer Types

Related Truck and Trailer Models

Related PTO and Hydraulic System Types

Related PTO and Hydraulic Products

Related Equipment Systems

Related Guides

Regulatory and Compliance Notes

Installing a 5000 Series cylinder does not increase the truck or trailer’s certified gross vehicle weight rating, axle ratings, frame rating, tire capacity, wheel capacity, or legal payload.

The completed installation must preserve required braking, lighting, conspicuity, stability, clearance, fuel-system, electrical, and exhaust-system performance. Frame and body modifications must follow approved engineering and final-stage manufacturing procedures.

Employers and operators must follow applicable workplace-safety requirements governing raised bodies, stored hydraulic energy, lockout procedures, and hydraulic fluid-injection hazards.

Real World Operating Notes

Dump-body stability depends on ground conditions, suspension movement, tire support, load distribution, and how freely the material exits the body. A powerful cylinder cannot compensate for unstable ground or a load concentrated on one side.

Cold hydraulic oil can slow the lifting cycle and increase system resistance. Operators should follow the approved warm-up procedure instead of increasing engine speed or pressure beyond system limits.

Stage scoring or repeated seal failure often points to contamination, poor alignment, or side loading rather than a seal problem alone. The complete body, hinge, mounting, and hydraulic system should be inspected before replacing seals repeatedly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Custom Hoists 5000 Series?

It is a family of single-acting telescopic hydraulic cylinders designed for dump trucks, dump trailers, and other mobile hydraulic applications.

Is it an underbody hoist?

No. The 5000 Series is a telescopic hydraulic cylinder. It is different from an underbody scissor or linkage-type hoist mounted beneath the dump body.

How many stages are available?

Current published models include three-, four-, and five-stage configurations.

What stroke lengths are available?

Published models range from approximately 120.38 to 279.88 inches of stroke. Exact availability should be confirmed using the current Custom Hoists model table.

Is the 5000 Series single-acting?

Yes. Hydraulic pressure extends the cylinder, and the weight of the dump body normally retracts it.

Does it use U-cup seals or V-packing?

Custom Hoists identifies a single high-performance U-cup seal as the primary design and states that V-packing is available.

Can one 5000 Series model replace another?

Not automatically. The stroke, closed length, extended length, stage count, moving-stage diameter, mounting dimensions, hydraulic port, and body geometry must all be compatible.

Why does the cylinder extend slowly?

Possible causes include low pump flow, cold oil, low engine or PTO speed, restricted plumbing, insufficient oil, air in the circuit, contamination, or internal wear.

Can the raised body be supported by the cylinder during service?

No. The approved mechanical body prop or blocking system must be installed before anyone works beneath a raised body.

How is the correct replacement cylinder identified?

Use the complete Custom Hoists model number, serial number, stage count, stroke, closed length, mounting dimensions, port information, and original vehicle or body build records.

Availability and Where to Find

Custom Hoists 5000 Series cylinders, replacement seals, packing, repair kits, and technical support may be available through Custom Hoists, authorized hydraulic distributors, truck-equipment dealers, trailer manufacturers, body builders, and qualified cylinder-repair facilities.

Availability depends on the model, stroke, stage count, mounting arrangement, and production status. Provide the complete model and serial number before ordering replacement components.

Current model specifications, distributor information, technical resources, and service guidance are available through the Custom Hoists 5000 Series product page.

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