Hey Guys -
First, the (3) "hatches" are just very shallow storage bins for straps/binders/etc. I wasn't sure myself until I got on top of the one on the truck. Thought one or more of them might have been access panels for some mystery container or what-not. But no, nothing that mysterious!
Second, I havn't dug real deap into the power supply end of the electrical system yet. From what I have read, I believe that it may have a 24 to 12 volt converter. It has quite a big heat sink and control assembly mounted next to the driver's side engine cover. I'll have to let you know what I find out. Thanks for thinking of it.
Third, Ah Yes - the PLS Trailer. That one is going to be another story in itself! I guess from what I have read, you are supposed to load a rack on the truck, then hitch up the trailer, then offload the rack from the truck onto the trailer, then unhitch the trailer, then load another rack onto the truck, and then hitch back up the trailer. Sounds like a lot of work! There would be no choice if I was loading full racks, but I am just loading empty ones (about 4,000 lbs) so I will probably cheat and just lift it onto the trailer with the crane and call it a day! The crane maxes out at either 4500 or 5300 lbs - either way it can only do them basically empty.
Fourth, FAKED PICTURES !! I didn't think that ever happened ! Just kidding. I would love to make it to Oscoda, but I think my schedule with the construction season underway and the TACOM show on my heels is going to keep me pretty local for a bit.
Fifth, Yup - falling behind on my house cleaning of my PM account. Thanks, I'll get right on it.
All I do know is - You stand up on that bed and you are WAY up there! Higher than you might think. The surface of the Rack is only maybe 2-1/2 or 3 feet below the height of the roof of the cab of the PLS!
Dave