On a mechanical dock leveler, a lifting arm is a structural component of the dock leveler used to raise the deck upon pull-chain activation.
Mechanical dock levelers receive power from main springs that counter the weight of the deck, making it possible to raise onto a truck or trailer.
These main springs are attached to a pull bar, which is threaded through the lifting arm, allowing the deck to raise when the hold-down is released.
Upon activation, the main springs pull back on the lifting arm via the pull bar, causing the deck to rise (see above image).
Lifting arms are designed for the dock leveler in question and are manufacture-specific. Consult the Owner's Manual when identifying replacement components on a dock leveler.
