What model Loadhandler do I need for my truck?

It’s all about the width between the wheel arches. We think most of the UK pickup trucks will need the new mid-size LH2200M which is new to the UK. This model has a dragsheet width of 107cm (42”) and a maximum length when unrolled of 450cm (177”). This should fit the Toyota Hilux, the Mitsubishi L200, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Isuzu Rodeo, Mazda BT50, Volkswagen Caddy and Peugeot 504.

There are also two other models; the LH2200 (notice that the M is missing) and the LH3000. These are wider and in the case of the LH3000 of higher capacity incorporating heavier bearings. They are also manufactured in smaller quantities as we really don’t have the large 'US style' pickups over here that these are designed for. However with the addition of some modest customised brackets and a bit of ingenuity, these would be suitable for Transit style non-tipping flatbed trucks and also for all sorts of agricultural or plant trailers that have no tipping capability.

If you wanted the heavier duty LH3000 model for your regular truck, the dragsheet can simply be cut down in width with a sharp knife or fabric shears.

Here are the sizes: Loadhandler Model Comparison Table
 

We're particularly interested to learn about the new 'thicker' tailgates appearing now on some new trucks and can supply brackets to suit. The standard brackets supplied with your Loadhandler Unloader will encompass tailgates up to 75mm (3”) thick.
Call us if you are in doubt.

Is it as easy as it seems?

Yes it is. The Loadhandler kit fits direct on to your tailgate and is held in place with sturdy straps. There is no welding or drilling required (and when you've finished, it simply comes off again). Properly fitted with the padded brackets and sturdy fixing straps supplied, the Loadhandler Pickup Unloader will not damage your truck.

Now unfurl the dragsheet, load up, and when you're ready to unload, drop the tailgate into the horizontal position, insert the crank handle and unload, job done.

What should I watch out for?

Material building up behind the wheel arches. Clear this if it stops the load or if it's a recurring problem and you use the Loadhandler a lot, why not knock up a plywood shield to prevent filling behind the arches.
The Loadhandler relies on the low-friction 'dragsheet' sliding over the bed or floor of the truck therefore you want to minimise any additional resistance. If your floor is old and rusted, simply place a ribbed rubber mat over the bed, or a thin plywood sheet and this will ensure the load will slide smoothly and prevent damage or tearing to the drag sheet. (However in normal use, any small tears can be easily repaired using duct tape).

How do I deal with any soil, compost or stones left behind?

If you have any loose material left in after unloading, it can easily be raked out afterwards. Or if you have a moulded load liner, why not use the Loadhandler Bedliner Rake – a purpose designed tool that easily fits any standard broom handle or telescopic painters handles and will assist in removing topsoil, gravel, woodchips, bark, sand, snow etc – it even has 3 different sides of teeth moulded in that will clean the grooves of most truck bed liners.

Can I use the Loadhandler to unload my flat-bed Transit or trailer?

We know unloading non-tipping flatbed trucks or a conventional towing trailer has the same issues. Many of use trailers behind 4x4s e.g. Ifor Williams, Weeks, Batesons etc. and the suggestion is that with a little DIY in the farm or yard workshop, the new Heavy duty Loadhandler LH3000 could be adapted. Ring us for a chat and some more details.
 

  
Using your Loadhandler

Unfurl Dragsheet, cover the whole truck bed...

Load up the pickup truck as normal...

Drop the tailgate...

Use the handle to wind-off the load...