Description
Maximum Controls MAX SUPER ARM 1300 Heavy-Duty Linear Swing Gate Actuator
The Maximum Controls MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is a heavy-duty residential linear swing gate actuator engineered for dependable operation, powerful gate movement, and long-term durability. Featuring a high-power 24V DC motor, direct-drive gearbox, stainless steel output shaft, and patented overload clutch protection, the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is designed to automate swing gates weighing up to 1,300 lbs, depending on gate length and installation conditions.
Designed for residential driveways, private estates, ranch entrances, gated communities, and compatible commercial access applications, the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 combines robust mechanical construction with the advanced capabilities of Maximum Controls' DSP-based gate automation systems.
A distinguishing feature of the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is its patented overload clutch mechanism, designed to release when subjected to an impact force exceeding approximately two tons. This protective mechanism automatically resets after release, helping reduce the risk of expensive mechanical damage during certain vehicle impacts or excessive external loads.
The actuator incorporates a 1-1/4-inch stainless steel output shaft and a heavy-duty direct-drive gearbox utilizing metal and bronze gearing. By eliminating internal drive chains, belts, and pulleys, the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 reduces mechanical wear points while delivering efficient power transmission.
Its continuous-duty design supports frequent gate operation, while compatibility with Maximum Controls' intelligent DSP control systems enables smooth acceleration, controlled deceleration, electronic obstruction detection, programmable gate movement, and integrated access control functions.
When paired with a compatible Maximum Controls AC or solar control box, the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 can support battery backup, advanced safety inputs, single- or dual-gate operation, and optional MAX Cloud connectivity.
For property owners and gate automation professionals seeking a durable replacement actuator or a reliable solution for a new swing gate installation, the Maximum Controls MAX SUPER ARM 1300 delivers heavy-duty performance, impact protection, and dependable residential gate automation.
Key Features & Benefits
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1,300 lb Maximum Gate Capacity: Supports properly constructed swing gates weighing up to 1,300 lbs at an 8-foot gate length.
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Heavy-Duty 24V DC Motor: Provides efficient power for demanding residential swing gate applications.
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Continuous-Duty Operation: Designed for frequent gate cycling without excessive motor overheating.
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Patented Overload Clutch Protection: Releases when subjected to impact forces exceeding approximately two tons and automatically resets.
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1-1/4-Inch Stainless Steel Output Shaft: Durable, corrosion-resistant shaft engineered for demanding gate movement.
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Heavy-Duty Direct-Drive Gearbox: Metal and bronze gearing eliminates internal belts, pulleys, and secondary drive chains.
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19.4-Inch Maximum Stroke: Provides linear travel for compatible swing gate mounting configurations.
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Built-In Mechanical Gate Release: Supports authorized manual gate movement when the actuator is properly released.
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Electrical Release Compatibility: Supports compatible control-system release functions.
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Intelligent Acceleration & Deceleration: DSP controller compatibility enables smooth gate starts and stops.
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Adjustable Gate Movement: Compatible controls provide multiple programmable motor speed settings.
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Single & Dual Gate Compatibility: Supports appropriately configured single-leaf and dual-leaf installations.
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Push-to-Open / Pull-to-Open Installation: Accommodates supported gate opening configurations with correct mounting geometry.
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Integrated Safety System Compatibility: Supports monitored entrapment protection devices through an approved controller.
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Battery Backup Capability: Compatible control systems provide backup operation during electrical interruptions.
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Solar Power Compatibility: Supports approved Maximum Controls solar control systems.
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Extreme Temperature Operation: Published operating range of -4°F to 165°F.
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MAX Cloud Compatibility: Optional remote monitoring and control through compatible MAX Cell Hub equipment.
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2-Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty: Manufacturer-backed coverage subject to current warranty terms.
Swing Gate Weight & Length Capacity
Maximum Controls publishes the following capacity ratings for the MAX SUPER ARM 1300:
| Gate Leaf Length | Maximum Gate Weight |
|---|---|
| Up to 8 ft | 1,300 lbs |
| Up to 10 ft | 800 lbs |
| Up to 12 ft | 600 lbs |
Important: Gate weight capacity decreases as gate length increases. The 1,300 lb rating applies to an 8-foot gate leaf and should not be interpreted as the maximum allowable weight for a 12-foot gate.
Gate construction, hinge condition, wind exposure, mounting geometry, and mechanical resistance must also be evaluated before selecting an actuator.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Maximum Controls |
| Model | MAX SUPER ARM 1300 |
| Product Type | Heavy-Duty Linear Swing Gate Actuator |
| Primary Application | Residential / Compatible Commercial |
| Motor | High-Power 24V DC |
| Maximum Gate Weight | 1,300 lbs at 8 ft |
| Maximum Gate Length | 12 ft at 600 lbs |
| Duty Cycle | Continuous |
| Maximum Linear Speed | Approximately 0.7 in/sec |
| Maximum Stroke Length | 19.4 in (495 mm) |
| Retracted Length | 37.5 in (955 mm) |
| Extended Length | 57 in (1,450 mm) |
| Maximum Traction / Pressure Force | 2,500 N per Leaf |
| Rated Force | 830 N per Leaf |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 260 W per Gate |
| Motor Power Supply | 24V DC |
| Drive System | Direct Gear Drive |
| Gearbox | Heavy-Duty Metal & Bronze Gearing |
| Output Shaft | 1-1/4-Inch Stainless Steel |
| Impact Protection | Patented Automatic-Reset Overload Clutch |
| Release Mechanism | Mechanical & Electrical |
| Installation Configurations | Push-to-Open / Pull-to-Open |
| Operating Temperature | -4°F to 165°F (-20°C to 74°C) |
| Actuator Shipping Weight | 25 lbs |
| Compatible Controller | Maximum Controls DSP Arm Controller |
| AC System Input | Selectable 115V / 230V AC |
| Recommended AC Breaker | 15A |
| Battery Backup | Through Compatible Control Box |
| Solar Compatibility | Through Compatible Solar Control Box |
| UL 325 Usage Classes | I, II, III, IV with Approved System |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2-Year Limited Warranty |
Patented Overload Clutch & Impact Protection
One of the MAX SUPER ARM 1300's most distinctive features is its patented overload clutch protection system.
This mechanism is designed to help protect the actuator when the gate experiences an excessive external load, such as a vehicle striking the gate while it is moving.
Maximum Controls specifies that when the force exceeds approximately two tons, the clutch releases and then automatically resets.
This design can help reduce mechanical damage to the actuator and associated drive components under certain impact conditions.
Unlike conventional linear gate actuators that may transmit excessive impact forces directly through the internal drive mechanism, the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 incorporates this protective release as part of its mechanical design.
Important: The overload clutch is a mechanical equipment-protection feature. It does not replace required entrapment protection devices, and it does not guarantee that a gate or actuator will remain undamaged after an impact.
Heavy-Duty 24V DC Motor & Direct-Drive Gearbox
The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 incorporates a high-power 24V DC electric motor engineered for dependable residential gate operation.
The motor is paired with a precision direct-drive gearbox that uses durable metal and bronze gearing.
Unlike systems incorporating internal chains, belts, or pulleys, the direct-drive configuration reduces the number of mechanical wear components while supporting consistent torque transmission.
This design provides several advantages:
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Efficient power delivery to the actuator shaft
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Reduced internal mechanical complexity
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Consistent gate movement
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Smooth acceleration and deceleration with compatible controls
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Dependable performance for frequent residential gate cycles
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Reduced maintenance associated with belt- and chain-driven internal mechanisms
The actuator's continuous-duty rating allows it to serve demanding residential entrances where frequent opening and closing are required.
Stainless Steel Output Shaft & Heavy-Duty Construction
The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 features a 1-1/4-inch stainless steel output shaft engineered for durability and resistance to corrosion.
The actuator's mechanical assembly is designed to withstand the forces associated with moving heavy residential swing gates.
Its maximum published stroke length of 19.4 inches provides linear movement for approved gate mounting configurations.
The actuator's dimensions and travel must be matched to the gate's hinge placement, mounting bracket geometry, and desired opening angle.
Proper installation geometry is essential for efficient operation and avoiding excessive mechanical loading.
Intelligent DSP Motor Control
When connected to the compatible Maximum Controls DSP Arm Controller, the MAX SUPER ARM 1300 supports advanced motor control and programmable operating functions.
The DSP controller uses adaptive motor management to provide controlled gate movement and installation-specific adjustments.
Depending on the connected controller and configuration, supported features include:
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Intelligent acceleration and deceleration
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Adjustable gate speed settings
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Electronic reversing detection
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Automatic closing timer
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Single- and dual-gate operation
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Programmable gate opening sequences
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Gate status monitoring
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Tamper detection and alarm outputs
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Vehicle loop detector integration
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Compatible access control inputs
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Diagnostic event logging
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Emergency access input integration
These functions are provided by the compatible control box and should not be confused with features built into the standalone actuator.
Battery Backup & Solar Power Compatibility
The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 can be integrated with compatible Maximum Controls AC and solar control systems.
The manufacturer's AC control box supports selectable 115V or 230V AC input, while supplying the low-voltage power required for actuator operation.
Maximum Controls advertises a minimum of 500 backup cycles for the associated battery backup system under specified conditions.
Actual battery backup performance depends on gate weight, gate length, number of actuators, battery condition, operating temperature, and installation geometry.
The actuator is also compatible with approved Maximum Controls solar control systems for installations where conventional AC power is unavailable or impractical.
Important: AC input selection, battery charging, backup batteries, and solar power management are functions of the external control system. They are not built into the standalone MAX SUPER ARM 1300 actuator.
Mechanical Release & Emergency Access
The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 incorporates a mechanical release mechanism designed to allow authorized manual gate movement during maintenance or certain emergency conditions.
When properly released, the actuator can be disengaged according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Compatible control systems also provide electrical release and emergency access functions.
For gated residential properties, the ability to manually release the gate can be important during electrical interruptions, service operations, and emergency access procedures.
Emergency access arrangements should be designed according to the installation requirements and applicable local regulations.
Single & Dual Swing Gate Applications
The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is suitable for compatible single-leaf and dual-leaf swing gate systems.
For a single-gate installation, one actuator operates the gate leaf through an approved Maximum Controls controller.
For a dual-gate installation, two compatible actuators can be connected to a properly configured controller to coordinate gate movement.
The controller provides programmable sequencing and movement adjustments for installations where both leaves must operate together.
The actuator supports approved push-to-open and pull-to-open mounting configurations, provided the correct brackets and installation geometry are used.
UL 325 Safety & Entrapment Protection
The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is intended for use in properly configured vehicular swing gate systems designed for UL 325 Class I, II, III, and IV applications.
When paired with an approved Maximum Controls controller, the system supports electronic reversing detection and compatible monitored external safety devices.
A compliant installation may require:
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Monitored photoelectric sensors
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Monitored safety edges
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Properly located entrapment protection devices
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Gate warning signs
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Correctly adjusted obstruction detection
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Approved gate stops and mounting hardware
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Proper emergency access equipment
Important: The actuator's patented overload clutch is not a substitute for monitored entrapment protection. Required external safety devices must be installed according to Maximum Controls' instructions and applicable safety standards.
Ideal Applications
The Maximum Controls MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is well suited for:
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Residential driveway swing gates
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Private estates and ranch entrances
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Heavy ornamental iron swing gates
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Residential security gates
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Gated community entrances
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Private roads and controlled-access properties
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Compatible light commercial swing gate installations
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Single- and dual-leaf swing gate systems
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Replacement of existing MAX SUPER ARM 1300 actuators
Product Configuration & Optional Equipment
MAX SUPER ARM 1300 Actuator Features:
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Maximum Controls MAX SUPER ARM 1300 linear actuator
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Integrated 24V DC motor
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Heavy-duty direct-drive gearbox
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1-1/4-inch stainless steel output shaft
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Patented overload clutch mechanism
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Mechanical release mechanism
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Integrated gate travel limit components
Compatible Equipment Available Separately:
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Maximum Controls MAX AC Control Box
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Compatible MAX Solar Control Box
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Second MAX SUPER ARM 1300 for dual-gate applications
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Compatible actuator extension cables
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Installation-specific mounting brackets and hardware
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Monitored photoelectric safety sensors
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Monitored safety edge systems
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Vehicle loop detectors
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Keypads, card readers, and remote controls
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MAX Cell Hub for supported MAX Cloud connectivity
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Solar panels, batteries, and charging accessories
Important Ordering Note: The MAX SUPER ARM 1300 is available in manufacturer packages that include a control box, as well as actuator configurations intended for replacement or system assembly. Confirm the exact SKU and included components before ordering.
A standalone actuator is not a complete gate automation system and requires a compatible controller, properly selected mounting hardware, and required safety equipment.
Installation: Professional installation is recommended. Gate weight, gate length, hinge condition, mounting geometry, electrical requirements, and monitored entrapment protection must be evaluated before installation.
Warranty: Maximum Controls provides a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty. Refer to the manufacturer's current warranty documentation for complete coverage terms and exclusions.

