Retractable Vs. Fixed Sled Decks

[94fordguy]

Ok, I know the retractable sled decks are the coolest new thing to have, but just how tough are they over the long haul? I am considering picking up a used deck next year for the times that I don't need to haul the 4 place, but I want to know if I should consider a retractable deck or not.

What I want to know is pretty simple... Just how TOUGH are the retractable decks? I like the ramps and other features I have seen on the Marathon decks, but it sounds as though they don't even offer a 'fixed' sled deck and for the few times that I foresee even using a deck, I want it STRONG... I don't want the thing to break and drop my sled on the ground if I hit a pot hole in the snow driving up the logging roads in the spring...

Comments?

 

[Surly1]

I put an expandable side Silver Lake deck on my truck this year. Got prob around 8000 miles hauling two sleds (08 RMK700 and 09 Assualt) all winter. No probs with the deck, its very sturdy and strong. Def like the expandable sides for when not hauling sleds, drunk friends don't run their heads into the corners anymore, and when hauling an enclosed you don't have to worry about turning too sharp and dinging your trailer. Expandable sides well worth the money.

 

[ridgeclimber]

sled deck

I had a fixed deck in the past. This year I bought a Full-Lotus deck. It has the expandable sides, 11 ft telescoping ramp, tubular side rails and a headache rack. It is the most heavy duty deck that I have seen. I am sure happy with it so far. I have used it for sleds as well as quads all year and no problems. Everyone that comes out with me and loads up onto the deck comments on how good it is.