I have a question for everyone who installed any kind of crane, large hydraulic down to a 1000 lb Harbor Freight model.
I see most everyone mounts it in the back of the bed. Why? Isn't that restricting (slightly or moderately) what you can load in there? There is a convenience factor. I can totally see that. Maybe that is the answer, and it's nothing more.
Now, I have been accused of marching to the beat of a different drum more than one time. So my question isn't meant to criticize, just curious about the mounting location.
If (when) I mount a crane, I will likely put it in the front of the bed, either centered and braced to the front of the bed, if it's a larger hydraulic type, or in the drivers corner if it's a smaller one. I figure, there, it is out of the way, and I can still pick up anything and load it, even if I have to drop the side. I can use the front of the bed or the corner of the bed as a brace. You can't find a stronger location in my mind than to butt it right up against the corner if it's a small crane or up against the center of the bed of its larger. Even if you have to set it off a few inches, you can weld or bolt a piece of square or angle to secure it.
To me, it seems more convenient, and more practical.
But, that's just me. Again, I do see the convenience factor of having it at the back. Just curious what made a lot of you put it in the rear instead of the front.