Ramps and Safety

Ramps make working under a car easier.

Car ramps are simple devices that allow a person to get under a car to complete maintenance and repairs. While ramps are easy to use, improper use can cause serious injury and death.

Use Proper Ramps

Before driving a vehicle onto a ramp, the driver needs to make certain that the ramps are rated for the load that will be placed on them. Also, the vehicle's tires should fit properly onto the ramp. Tires that bulge over the side may make the ramps unstable.

Test for Stability

Once the vehicle is on the ramps, gently rock the car to each side to make certain the ramps are stable. If an end or side of the ramp lifts off the ground while the car is being rocked, the weight of the vehicle is not properly placed on the ramps.

Chock the Wheels

Wheel chocks are wedge-shaped devices that prevent the car from rolling off the ramps. Place the chocks behind the wheels that are not on the ramp. Drivers should also make certain that the wheel chocks are rated for the weight that they are being used to hold.

References

• Jalopnik: And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Parts; Using Car Ramps
• Auto Media: Ramping up to Under-Car Fun