How to Make Aluminum Folding Ramps
Ramps have many purposes but are most useful for people with disabilities when they are entering a building or getting into and out of a vehicle. If you need to add a ramp for use with your vehicle or a building you can make it out of aluminum. This is a lightweight metal that is easy to fabricate into many types of objects.
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Instructions
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Determine the width and length of the ramp by measuring for the dimensions with the tape measure.
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Transfer the measurements to a piece of sheet metal. Cut the piece of aluminum to the required size by using tin snips or an angle grinder with a metal cutting blade.
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Measure the length of the cut piece of aluminum and make a mark at the center. Draw a line across the center using a felt tip marker and a straight edge. Cut the piece of aluminum into two pieces.
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Remove rough edges on the cut sides of the aluminum by using an abrasive disc with the angle grinder.
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Set the two pieces side by side on the floor. Place hinges where the two pieces meet and mark the holes.
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Drill pilot holes for the hinges into the aluminum with the power drill. Align the mounting holes for the hinges with the holes in the aluminum. Insert a screw into each hole and tighten with the power drill.
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Drill two to three holes along the top end of the ramp. Attach the ramp to the side of a van or a building by sliding the holes over a set of eye hooks.
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References
- Carsdirect: How to Make Your Own Wheelchair Van Ramp
- "Welding Design & Fabrication;" Volume 5; 1978
