DOCK LEVELERS

What is Stump-out?
“Stump-out” is an industry term associated with some models of docklevelers.  Stump-out occurs when the mechanical safety legs or stops on the dock leveler engage and restrict the leveler’s movement during loading/unloading.  The leveler lip assumes a steep angle to reach the trailer bed which results in a potentially unsafe condition.  With over 6o% of all new vehicles on the road today equipped with air-ride suspensions, dock leveler Stump-out has become an ever-increasing issue on the dock. Kelley offers docklevelers equipped with anti Stump-out systems, which use a patented roller design that rides along a reinforced cam surface, providing unrestricted movement while also providing a measure of free-fall protection in the event of premature vehicle separation.

Selecting between hydraulic, air or mechanical docklevelers?
All pit style docklevelers are designed to bridge the gap between the warehouse and trailer and are available in a variety of size and capacities.  When selecting any dock leveler you should consider some important points:

1. Your application needs
2. Safety and ease of operation
3. Life-time cost of ownership
4. Capabilities of the manufacturer and local representative

Hydraulic docklevelers provide the most operational convenience with extremely low cost of ownership.  Your local Kelley distributor can survey your specific application and determine the best alternative for your company.

Are all docklevelers structurally alike?
Absolutely not. Even docklevelers with the same capacity rating vary greatly in design. The structural integrity of a dock leveler, like that of a bridge, is determined by the top surface and by the type of reinforcement underneath. The deck supports in general use today range from formed shapes to structural I beams. Depending on application, capacity and activation type, Kelley docklevelers are designed with a range of structural supports for maximum strength and dependability.

How much lip length or purchase is recommended in the truck or vehicle at all times?
Standards state that the bed of the vehicle support a minimum of 4". Extended lip lengths are available for vehicles with lift gates, steps or refrigerated flooring.

VEHICLE RESTRAINTS

What is a Vehicle Restraint?
Vehicle/Trailer Restraints are devices that secure trailers to keep them from departing or separating from the dock during loading/unloading.  Restraints can also include an internal and external light communication package to enhance safety for the dock attendant and truck drivers.

DOCK SEALS & SHELTERS

Selecting a Dock Seal or Dock Shelter?
Selecting the proper dock seal or shelter can improve the safety and efficiency of your operation.  Dock seals consist of fabric covered foam pads that provide the tightest seal once compressed by backing trailers.  Dock Shelters consist of fabric attached to side/head frames and provide a perimeter seal for the side and top of a trailer.  Shelters also provide superior trailer access.
When selecting a dock seal or dock shelter you should consider the following key points:

1. Your specific application. Including:
• Size of door opening
• Approach slope
• Building wall construction
• Exterior obstructions or space constraints
2. Determine proper trailer access required for your situation
3. Determine the degree of environmental control necessary
4. Product durability and cost of ownership
5. Capabilities of the manufacturer and local representative

SUPPORT

Is there someone to call for customer service or technical support if needed?
Kelley has an extensive network of exclusive distributors that are all factory-trained sales and service professionals who can provide you with: Sales, Service, Installation and Technical Support.