crane/hoist

[chromeOkie]

I am wondering if anyone has used a pickup bed crane/hoist to help lift an Equalizer hitch off the ground and hold in position to attach to receiver? Recent back surgery is forcing me to make adjustments like this. The tall 1,000 lb cranes might be more than I need, I am leaning towards the low profile bottle jack types. Any opinions or suggestions?

[grhodes50]

Can't really help you out. Just wanted to let you know I can relate. I've had minor (?) back surgery myself and I feel every ounce of the equal-i-zer hitch when I pick it up.
I can't really think of any safe way to do it. Hopefully others can help you.

[chromeOkie]

when I get the lift I'll update this post on if it helped or not. I have a few other ideas on easing the strains from RV living mechanics.

[MtnGuy]

Can you use a floor jack ??

[flyrotor]

I seem to remember there are lifts available to load those personal mobility vehicles, (like the Rascals) maybe you could check in on those, the other option is that once it is in place you could secure it with a locking pin and then leave it in place, it may not be your preference but you wouldn't have to be lifting it each time you want to use it.

[chromeOkie]

appreciate the input, I considered floor jacks but ruled it out for a couple of reasons; 1st I would still have to physically lift the equalizer onto the jack, this action would strain the back, 2nd the floor jack is somewhat akward to move around on gravel, dirt or grass, the kinds of ground I would be hitching up over. I think that with a little modification I can use a 2wheel dolly to move the equalizer into position under the tailgate then winch it up into position.

[flyrotor]

Northern tool sells this...
Northern Industrial Pickup Truck Crane — 1000-Lb. Capacity | Truck Cranes | Northern Tool + Equipment

[The_Stuff]

you can get electric versions aswell. very very handy!!

[chromeOkie]

I decided on the low profile Rand that sits next to bed wall. Once it's set up I'll post pics of how it works. As for when I unhook at CG, I still haven't decided what to do with equalizer.

[frankm]

Originally Posted by chromeOkie

As for when I unhook at CG, I still haven't decided what to do with equalizer.

Get a good hitch lock (Hitch Accessories - Reese) and leave it on (the hitch head that is, bars of course come off). We do and other than the occasional knee bump all is well.

[chromeOkie]

I wasn't sure I could take the bars off, good to know.

[Rugged Brown]

I just get my neighbour to help me.