Dump truck tarp arms L bend

[AlanB]

When looking at Dump truck tarp systems, a lot of them (most that I see) have the arm on the side in the shape of an L instead of just straight.

I am sure there is an advantage to this design, I just do not see what it would be. I was thinking it would be a height thing but that does not seem right.

Thanks for the insights.

 

[kennyd]

Alan,
I think it has to do with the hydraulic cylinder that pushes and pulls the cover open/closed. With the "L" design, the cylinder can be shorter and have more leverage to unroll the tarp against the spring tension.
If you draw the two (straight and "L) designs on paper in the open and closed positions I think you will see what I am talking about.

 

[tractorbob]

Actually the L bend positions the arm down below the side of the truck so it won't be damaged when loading from the side. I have loaded trucks both ways and it is much easier to load the L bent ones.