Handy New Loading Fork For Pickups

Handy New Loading Fork For Pickups PICKUPS Accessories 8-1-2 "It's not just another bale retriever," says Don Wolf, Pawnee Rock, Kan. about the 3-pt. utility fork that he built for his pickup. "I use it to load and transport bale feeders, stock tanks, tractor tires, railroad ties, pallets, and of course round bales. It also works well for pulling posts," Wolf explains. "Some farmers use the fork as a portable jack to change tractor tires or duals, to hang bearings on disks, or to pick center pivot flat tires up out of the mud." The fork hinges off a framework that lays on the truck bed and extends out far enough so the fork doesn't hit the bumper. Brackets bolted to the bed tie downs, just in front of the rear axle, hold the frame in place. It adjusts for different sized trucks and is pulled to its upright position by a 12 volt electric winch mounted in the front of the pickup truck bed. To remove the fork, you back it under something heavy, such as a round bale, pull two pins that hold the framework to the crossbar with the winch, unhook the winch and drive away. All that's left on the truck is the 3 1/2 ft. long cross bar which leaves enough room to hook up your fifth wheel trailer, or to haul cargo in the back of the truck. Wolf notes that he, along with his brother, have started manufacturing the forks which fit heavy 1/2 to 1 ton 4-wd pickups. The fork, minus the winch, sells for $375. Wolf also sells do-it-yourself plans for $25. For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Don Wolf, R.R. 1, Pawnee Rock, Kan. 67567 (ph 0 316 982-4512, or 4452); Or, Wolf's Induction Coil and Furnace Repair, Rt. 1, Box 333N, Troy, Tex. 76579 (ph 817 938-2870).

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