When it comes to companies that make truly useful loading equipment for snowmobilers, you wouldn't first think of Petersburg, West Virginia and Grant Manufacturing. But, this company makes the niftiest sled loading device we've ever seen - or used. It is versatile, simple to operate, and made of incredibly durable materials such as laser-cut stainless steel. But if you're looking for inexpensive, go to the lumberyard and get a 4x8 sheet of plywood and some 2x4s. The TK Loader is a premium product and commands a premium price. (You should call for specific pricing applications.)
Our test unit was designed to fit into an 8-foot pickup box, but we mounted it in the back of a Silverado shortbox pickup and simply left the tailgate down. Grant Manufacturing does offer a shortbed version, but to accommodate a modern snowmobile you really do want the extra length of the longbox model.
The unit has a one-ton capacity, way more than you'll ever need for even the heftiest of sleds. Once installed properly in your pickup, the only lifting you'll be doing will be to pick up the remote control unit and push buttons to move the TK Loader in and out of position.
The manufacturer states that the unit will readily fit into either a box with or without a bed liner. On a truck with a low bed rail and a bed liner, you might need to consult the manufacturer for optional support arms to secure the loader. Regardless, you will not have to drill holes or alter the pickup box. Heck, to install the loader, all you need is a helper to assist you in getting the 340-pound device into position for the install and a 9/16 and 3/4 inch wrench! It'll take two adept people about 10-15 minutes to secure the unit.
Once you've followed the manufacturer's incredibly easy directions, you just connect the power cord to your vehicle's cigarette lighter or powerpoint connection. Then you are ready to operate the Superwinch-equipped TK Loader. The loading platform rolls out and tilts down. You drive your sled up to the loading platform, secure another winch to your sled. Push a button, watch your sled become secured to the loading platform. Push the loading platform winch control and watch as the TK Loader lifts your sled into your pickup and slides it to the front of the box. It is truly that simple… as our photos indicate.
The TK Loader's automatic winch raises and lowers the item being loaded allowing the operator to be safely out of the way. There's no lifting required so it eliminates possible back injuries incurred from manually lifting.
Of note for snowmobilers, with off-season interests, you can use the TK Loader to haul your golf cart, ATV, motorcycle, PWC, power equipment and more. Heck, there are options to turn the loader into a dump box.
The TK Loader specs:
• Construction: Precision laser cut stainless steel and polyethylene plastic;
• Power: Your vehicle's 12 volt electrical system and/or operates off of internally mounted battery;
• Weight: Approximately 340 lbs;
• Versatile: Fits either long bed or short bed pickups, plus can be used with utility beds, flatbeds and trailers; Can be easily transferred from one truck to another; Works with camper top-equipped pickups.
• Operation: totally automatic with all functions controlled by push buttons on the hand-held remote control.
For more info contact Grant Manufacturing at 304/257-5430 •
www.tkloader.com