What size Auto-Crane did you get? Mine is an old 2400 but I've rebuilt it so now it will handle 3000lbs +/-. Make sure to brace up the pedastal good and hard with gussets and posibliy tie into the frame of the truck somehow. It will help immensley in the long run! And above all be careful! There are countless ways to get hurt under these things!
As far as DOT goes, I've been told that the weight limits are based off the capacity of the tires, not the truck itself!? Someone please correct me if I've been misinformed but this make total sense to me. My rig is weighing in at 14,700 something right now The GVWR on this truck is 11,500. I really don't know where I could drop 3200lbs and still operate the way I do! Between welder (1200lbs.), crane (500lbs.) and the compessor (400lbs.) thats over a ton right there, never mind tools, bottles, etc!!
Thanks all for the input.
GH Weidman