Marlon Recreational Products

Whether you're planning to explore deep powder, head to the trails for a weekend adventure, or just need to get your snowmobile from point A to point B, the right sled deck can make all the difference.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right sled deck for both your snowmobile and vehicle? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider ensuring you select the perfect sled deck for your needs.

Your pickup truck plays a huge role in determining the type of sled deck you'll need. Before selecting a sled deck, assess your vehicle's size, weight capacity, and bed type. Here's what to keep in mind:

Truck Bed Size: Pickup trucks come in different bed sizes, including short beds and long beds. Make sure the sled deck you choose is compatible with your truck’s bed length. Marlon sled decks, for example, offer 7’ decks, fitting truck boxes from 5.5' to 6.5' as well as 8’ decks, fitting truck boxes from 6.2' to 8'. However, for most adjustability, the Xplore Pro III allows you for a more custom fit compared to the Xplore Pro II, thanks to its new fully adjustable legs and foot pads.
Weight Capacity: Every truck has a maximum weight capacity for the cargo it can carry, including the weight of the sled deck itself. Check your truck’s manual to ensure it can safely support the sled deck plus the weight of your snowmobile (s). Marlon 7’ decks weight 411 lbs while the 8’ weights 469lbs. If your truck has a low payload capacity, consider a lighter option, such as a single loader.
Bed Type: It's essential to ensure that the sled deck you're considering is compatible with your vehicle's bed type. Additionally, make sure the deck fits perfectly within the bed, leaving ample space for tie-downs and other accessories. One standout feature of Marlon sled decks is their individual leg design - unlike other sled decks that have inter-connected legs, our design maximizes the available space in your truck bed. This means you have more room for extra gear or tools without sacrificing stability or security for your snowmobile.
Consider Your Snowmobile’s Weight

Different snowmobiles can vary widely in weight depending on the model, size, and intended use. A lightweight mountain sled might weigh 400 lbs, while a trail or touring sled can weigh over 600 lbs.

Center of Gravity: The weight of your snowmobile directly impacts the center of gravity of both your sled deck and your vehicle. To maintain stability during transport, it’s crucial to choose a deck with the right weight capacity. Improperly distributing the load can cause swaying or tipping, especially at high speeds or on rough terrain. With a Marlon sled deck, you get the added flexibility to carry up to two snowmobiles at once – depending on your vehicle gross weight-. Our decks feature extendable wings, allowing you to easily widen the deck for extra space.

A standout upgrade in the Xplore Pro III is the two-stop slide positions; this lets you quickly switch between a narrow width for mountain sleds or a full width for trail machines – our Marlon BRAAP Mode - for a perfect fit, no matter your sled type. This innovative design gives you superior load distribution and versatility, ensuring your snowmobiles stay secure and stable throughout the ride.

Deck Features to Look For

When it comes to sled decks, the features you choose can make a big difference in how easy and convenient you’re loading and unloading process is. Here are some key features to consider:

Adjustable Ramps: Loading and unloading your snowmobile can be challenging, especially in deep snow or slippery conditions. That's why it's essential to choose a sled deck with adjustable, heavy-duty ramps that can accommodate your truck's height and ensure smooth, safe loading. Marlon’s Xplore Pro sled decks features a10’ telescoping ramp equipped with SuperGlide tracks on both the sides and in the middle, providing enhanced grip for better traction, even in wet or snowy conditions. This feature ensures easy loading for wider ski stances and even 50" SXS’s.
Integrated Tie-Down Systems: Securing your snowmobile is essential to ensure it stays in place during transport. Look for sled decks with integrated tie-down points or systems designed for stability. While some decks offer basic side rails or a few tie-down points, Marlon takes it a step further. For maximum security, the Xplore Pro II features durable side rails that provide extra anchorage for your tie-downs, keeping your sled stable even on rough terrain. The Xplore Pro III goes above and beyond with side rails, a middle extrusion, and side deck hooks, offering a variety of tie-down options. These features not only ensure your snowmobile stays securely in place but also serve as mounting points for additional accessories like a winch, making the Xplore Pro III the ultimate sled deck for versatility, safety, and ease of use.

Many sled decks come with basic LED lights to enhance visibility during loading and unloading, but Marlon goes above and beyond to provide added safety and convenience. While most sled decks only offer headache rack LED lights, our sled decks feature a comprehensive lighting system that includes side bullet lights, in-box LED lights with a heavy-duty toggle switch box for easy control. We’ve also integrated LED lights in the rear loading bar, as well as brake, signal, and reverse lights for maximum visibility while driving.

Deck Construction: The choice between aluminum and steel largely comes down to your budget and priorities. If you value lightweight construction, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability, aluminum is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option and don’t mind the extra weight and maintenance, steel might be the right choice for you.
By considering all these factors, you’ll be able to choose a sled deck that works perfectly for your snowmobile adventures.
Ready to upgrade your setup? Check out lightweight aluminum Marlon’s sled decks, designed with durability, ease of use, and safety in mind.