ironhawk
07-19-2009, 07:45 PM
Background:
I have a pickup truck that I am installing a tilt over communications tower system on. This is for rapid deployment for emergency/disaster response, etc.
The tower is a 26 foot aluminum structure, that pivots off of a 'ladder rack' type of support. The tower will be un-guyed. For safety and stability, I would like to eliminate the movement of the rear suspension, and level the bed before the tower is raised into action. This will keep the tower pointed vertical, and prevent it from moving as people or equipment is moved in the cab or bed of the truck.
My Thoughts:
I was thinking either a set of leveling jacks, like those used on RVs, could be installed under the bed, attached to the frame.
Alternatively, maybe air bags for the rear suspension could be used. If these are filled to max pressure could this be enough to minimize motion of the bed.
I am not as concerned about stabilizing the front of the truck.
My question:
What are your thoughts on stabilizing my bed? This must be something that is rapidly deployable (allready in place, but maybe needs to be folded into position.) Does not reduce the ground clearance of the vehicle. and is relatively inexpensive.
I have a pickup truck that I am installing a tilt over communications tower system on. This is for rapid deployment for emergency/disaster response, etc.
The tower is a 26 foot aluminum structure, that pivots off of a 'ladder rack' type of support. The tower will be un-guyed. For safety and stability, I would like to eliminate the movement of the rear suspension, and level the bed before the tower is raised into action. This will keep the tower pointed vertical, and prevent it from moving as people or equipment is moved in the cab or bed of the truck.
My Thoughts:
I was thinking either a set of leveling jacks, like those used on RVs, could be installed under the bed, attached to the frame.
Alternatively, maybe air bags for the rear suspension could be used. If these are filled to max pressure could this be enough to minimize motion of the bed.
I am not as concerned about stabilizing the front of the truck.
My question:
What are your thoughts on stabilizing my bed? This must be something that is rapidly deployable (allready in place, but maybe needs to be folded into position.) Does not reduce the ground clearance of the vehicle. and is relatively inexpensive.