Flatbed ramp ideas

[john miles]

Just bought a 2007 Kodiak C4500. I am going to convert to a flatbed to haul a side by side. (full size Polaris) I am looking for some ideas for ramps that this old man can load and unload.

The pic on right is my goal.

Thanks.

 

[treegump]

Welcome to the group.

What are your funds like? Have you considered doing a rollback type setup where you can load on the ground, and than load the entire bed on in one move?

 

[treegump]

Also - I've always loved the idea of dual-purpose or utility uses - might you consider making your side rails into ramps?

 

[Will L.]

Welcome.
I used to build flatbeds (owned truck equipment shop) if you can space the bed up off the frame, you could fit slide out ramps like are used on uhaul/ penske moving trucks.
Either do one on either side of the frame, Make sure to plan out wheel clearance. Or stack 2 together and stow them over center of frame.
We used to do extension ladder stowage there for construction trucks.

I agree with Forest, if you can afford a rollback set up they become quite versatile.

 

[john miles]

Also - I've always loved the idea of dual-purpose or utility uses - might you consider making your side rails into ramps?

Thanks for input. I like using the side rails.

 

[john miles]

Welcome.
I used to build flatbeds (owned truck equipment shop) if you can space the bed up off the frame, you could fit slide out ramps like are used on uhaul/ penske moving trucks.
Either do one on either side of the frame, Make sure to plan out wheel clearance. Or stack 2 together and stow them over center of frame.
We used to do extension ladder stowage there for construction trucks.

I agree with Forest, if you can afford a rollback set up they become quite versatile.

That looks good. thanks for input

 

[john miles]

Welcome to the group.

What are your funds like? Have you considered doing a rollback type setup where you can load on the ground, and than load the entire bed on in one move?

That was my original thought. I priced one installed for 31 thou. Little more than I wanted to spend.

You have any recommendations for any brand?

 

[john miles]

That was my original thought. I priced one installed for 31 thou. Little more than I wanted to spend.

You have any recommendations for any brand?

Im around 15 thou.

 

[john miles]

Im around 15 thou.

Thanks for input.

 

[Will L.]

You aren't going to be using it as a professional tow truck loading 7 cars a day... I would look at used ones. Find a truck equipment shop near you that has a good reputation.

 

[treegump]

Or for the amount of weight that you are looking at - what about looking at a round baler option, and modifying it to your use?

Or - my buddy purchased an old chevy pickup truck that has a winch that pulls a flat bed on and off the rear frame - think trucks that load the dumpsters on rails and secure it to the frame.

2 other options that might work just as well for less?

 

[MrMarty51]

Welcome to thetruckstop John Miles. Just wondering, are You related to the long since deceased General Nelson Miles, the man that My home town is named after. LOL Miles City, Montana.
What engine is in Your Kodiak ? I used to work on a lot of those trucks, all with air brakes and the 8.3 Detroit diesel.

 

[john miles]

Thanks. Not related to the General
It has the Duramax with air brakes.

 

[RolandDunn]

Even though your post is from a few years back, your flatbed ramp project is still a topic of interest! Converting a Kodiak C4500 for hauling a side by side is a cool endeavor. When it comes to practicality, considering ramp ideas that are easy to manage is a smart move.
On another note, taking care of your equipment's maintenance is crucial. Have you ever thought about Lift Truck repairs? Keeping your machinery in good condition ensures smooth operations. They might still offer insights into maintaining your machinery. Your project goal looks fantastic, and it's always inspiring to see community members working on practical solutions.