Re: Simko\'s pimped Manitex 22101S
Also note the dunnage rack, I've found 12" LVL, or microlam, to be best. I can stair step them up as needed, many of them are much more versatile then a few big blocks, plus I get them for free on job sites.
This picture shows the advantage of a rider (and of a rear mount) getting the crane closer to the work. The Manitex has a 360 degree load chart and continuous rotation. A few days later I set the trusses piled on the left, starting by swinging to the right, as I worked down the building midway I started swinging the other way, can't do that without continuous rotation and a 360 chart. Note the water cooler mounted on back of seat. Still to come a 1500 watt inverter for powering small hand tools and of course the electric coffee pot, mounted in the bed toolbox. Also a pressurized water system (45 gallons) for cleaning up me and the truck, also for cooling off the dog.
Another rear or rider advantage over a behind the cab: its quieter, your further from the engine. An advantage of the rider over the rear or behind cab model is the operator seat height, my eyeballs are over 10' off the ground, making it way better for seeing whats going on Plus....its a SEAT, you can SIT DOWN! Standing up all day on my 3470 was like standing up in a phone booth (small structures containing telephones, no longer found, for you younger guys)it got real uncomfortable after a long day. I've found the higher seat height also usefull for a general feeling of superiority, the king chair syndrome, a buddy of mine who runs a county road grader knows just what I mean. Its hard not to smirk when I climb up there and sit down, I try and make it look like work, but damn its hard as the seat is really quite comfortable ergonomicwise, it has armrests and room for your coffee cup and everything.
