Crane Attaches To Front Of Pickup Bed

Crane Attaches To Front Of Pickup Bed PICKUPS Accessories 26-1-34 I built a a small-scale crane that attaches to the front of a pickup bed and is powered off the vehicle's electrical system. It allows me to load a motorized scooter or 4-wheeler into a pickup without the need for ramps. The lifting is done by a remote-control electric winch, using a hook connected to a lift bracket on the scooter or 4-wheeler. A hydraulic pump is used to move the lift arm in an arc for loading and unloading. The arm can be easily moved to a position that won't interfere with the driver's vision. The crane is supported by two concentric steel tubes that bolt onto the pickup's frame at one corner of the bed. The outer tube is stationary while the inner tube rotates on bearings. The crane is a lot easier to use than ramps, and it increases the mobility and independence of disabled or elderly farmers. It can also be used to load chemicals, tires, and other cargo when forklifts or skid loaders aren't available. I spent a total of about $1,200 for the electric winch, hydraulic pump, and controls. Everything else was made using conventional steel and discarded parts from older equipment, including a Model T Ford planetary steering gear. (Einar Oftedal, 3541 265th Ave., Cottonwood, Minn. 56229 ph 507 423-6481)

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