Crane Spreader (M108A2)

[Recovry4x4]

In a previous thread someone (DH) asked a question about a spreader used to lift a bed. Rather than further hijack the OP's thread I figured I would post it here. The first pic is what piqued DH interest. Well, what it was originally is some type of home made tow sling device that was on the back of my M108 when I bought it. It was pretty sturdy but the legs were not and the bumperettes were hacked badly. I put the truck back to stock and have been using this as a spreader. Not huge but works good.

 

[doghead]

I have been dargging my heels on building or purchasing a few spreaders to accomodate some lifting situations.

 

[Recovry4x4]

An 8' piece of I beam and chain slots in numerous locations would be great. You could weld a chunk of 3/4 or better flat plat on the top with a hole to lift it. I'm always cramped for height and the spreader can help that alot. Eric, remind me to share my towbar idea with you at the GA Rally. I think it would be a hit with the wrecker guys.

 

[doghead]

Thanks.

One item I find myself needing to lift a few times a year, are boats, 18-28' long.

A big old H that could be assembled on location, has been my plan.

 

[Recovry4x4]

Next time they do yacht lifts here I'll try to grab some pics and post them. They have some pretty clever ways of slinging them.

 

[John S-B]

Beds aren't particularly heavy, so a homemade spreader should be able to perform that duty without too much problem. Just make sure all the individual componets are well within the capacity for what you are lifting.

 

[markmontana]

Awesome wrecker and pics!

 

[ODdave]

Whats the deal in pic #4?

 

[maddawg308]

Isn't that what a whiffle tree is for?

 

[Recovry4x4]

Pic 4, another view. Whiffle tree is to attatch to lift shackles. This truck was modified to tow school busses before I bought it.

 

[doghead]

Isn't that what a whiffle tree is for?

No, the whiffle tree is for lifting the front of a truck, for towing(from the shackle mounts).

 

[ODdave]

Are there any detailed pics on here of that attachment you have?

 

[gimpyrobb]

Its a standard bumper tow bracket, seen on most 70s & 80s tow trucks.

 

[ODdave]

Its a standard bumper tow bracket, seen on most 70s & 80s tow trucks.

Really? How is it held with the front axles over the tandams? Like in pic 4.

 

[ODdave]

Oh god...... Pretty shure I found the worst thing ever while seaching "whiffletree" in google images.......

 

[gimpyrobb]

Oh god...... Pretty shure I found the worst thing ever while seaching "whiffletree" in google images.......

Doghead found that pic 2secs before you posted that! Pretty sure thats Maddawg...

 

[gimpyrobb]

Really? How is it held with the front axles over the tandams? Like in pic 4.

Huh? Not sure what your asking.

 

[gimpyrobb]

Are you asking about the wrecker on the tractor in pic #3? Different bracket. Maybe Ferro will post a pic.

 

[ODdave]

Yup, imma dumbass....... Pic 3.

That google pic is f-ed up.........

 

[Recovry4x4]

It's a fabricated piggyback device.