Essential Tips for Loading Your Mower onto a Truck Bed
In the world of lawn maintenance, transporting your mower effectively and safely is paramount. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the critical aspects of choosing and using the right ramp for loading your mower onto your pickup, with an in-depth look into factors like ramp length, safety features, and grip, among others. Our curated tips will make the process more efficient and secure, letting you focus on what matters - mowing.
Keep reading to learn how you can properly load your mower into your pickup truck bed with ease.
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Ramp Length
One key factor when buying a ramp for your mower is its length. While seven-and-a-half-foot ramps are common, an eight-foot ramp provides a more manageable climb for your mower. The longer the ramp, the gentler the angle, minimizing the risk of your mower bottoming out and damaging vital components like the spindle or blades. Make sure to choose a ramp long enough to give your mower enough clearance when it reaches the top. Once positioned onto the tailgate, it should rest in such a way that a right triangle shape is created underneath with an acute angle of approximately 22 degrees where the ramp meets the ground, as shown here.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a priority when handling heavy equipment. Ramps should come equipped with secure attachments for the tailgate, a high load capacity, and safety straps for stability. Take, for instance, the ramp shown here, which can carry up to 1500 pounds, far exceeding any lawnmower's weight. This ramp also boasts a rubber pad and an L bracket that firmly secures it to the tailgate, ensuring the ramp stays put as you drive your mower up.
Ramp Grip
The ramp's grip or tread pattern plays a vital role in safety and ease of use. Opt for ramps that provide good traction, like the Big Boy Easy Riser's full solid floor with grip spikes. This design prevents slipping, allowing you to load and unload your mower with confidence. It's essential not just for when you're driving up, but also when descending the ramp.
Useful Tips
Additionally, one should follow these tips for a safe and efficient loading and transport process. Be sure your mower fits within the bed of your pickup truck. A pickup truck bed will typically be around 5.5 feet with about 49 to 50 inches between the wheel wells. The ramp should fold to fit either inside the truck bed once the mower is loaded or inside the cab of the truck. You will need the ramp again when unloading, so it's vital you be able to transport it safely as well.
Next, always load your mower slowly with the front end first. Secure it with straps, especially if you cannot close the tailgate once it is loaded. These precautions ensure any accidents are avoided during the loading process and that it stays in place during transit.
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Choosing the right ramp and following safe loading practices can make transporting your John Deere mower a hassle-free experience. With these tips, you'll be well-equipped to load your mower safely and effectively, wherever your lawn care needs take you.
If you have questions about any of the information above or are just more of a visual learner, head over to our YouTube channel and watch our video (also attached below)! Leave a comment or question and receive a personal reply from Brent, our resident John Deere expert. Be sure to subscribe and thanks for reading!