Any tips for getting ramp up on lorry single handed

ann-jen

ann-jen

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I've just got a wagon and sometimes I can get the ramp up on my own and sometimes not. I have no option other than to travel to shows on my own and am sometimes leaving the yard a long time before any other liveries arrive so I really need to be able to get it up on my own.
Other people seem to be able to flick it up no bother and I've been told its a really light ramp (so maybe I'm just a weakling).
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I managed to get the ramp up on my own today but now my back is really sore and I think its from that as opposed from riding.
So does anyone have any good tips how to lift the ramp safely without putting my back out?
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Thanks, AJ
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Mine is the same, you can have them adjusted, but in the mean time I always try and park facing downhill, tis a peice of cake to put up then! Then there is usually someone to help when you are out at a show.
 
Lift with a straight back using your legs. Throw it slightly over your head, then walk it up. Park facing slightly down hill to help.
 
Thanks - I have noticed when I get the lorry out at the yard it depends where I park it as to whether I can get the ramp up so I must have it on a slight slope when I do manage. Unfortunately someone else had parked there this morning (prob for the same reason
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) Its just other people seem to be able to get the ramp up easier than me and a few have commented on how light it is that makes me think it might be technique as much as anything.
 
Yes - don't think I was too good on the straight back thing today which is why I'm suffering now I think. Will have to keep practising.
 
Also watch out on windy days as when I have had a strong wind blowing from the front quarter, it took several attempts to get it to close. It has become easier since I hammerited the lorry as the locking hooks run much more smoothly through the eyes.
 
I think the springs must be under the lorry as they certainly aren't visible. I will stick my head under and have a look. I will try oiling them and see if it makes a difference. I have been asking for help at shows and everyone I ask exclaims what a light ramp it is which makes me think I am just wimpy!
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Whilst I haven't seen it done but have thought about fitting a hand winch like that on a boat trailer fitted under the floor line on the nearside so the handle doesn't stick out and wind the ramp up. can anyone see any problem with this idea.
 
How tall are you? I'm only 5'5" and its really annoying that people a few inches taller than me can get a ramp up so much easier because they can get their hands a little bit higher up. I think the danger with adjusting the ramps is that if its old at all, the weldings can give way if the springs are over done!
Also interesting about the standing to one side thing... with my bad back my "back person" always says never do it from the side because you have to twist. Still, don't fancy the ramp on my head.
 
Yes I'm only about 5'6" so I think that has a lot to do with it too - I'm sure if I could reach higher up the ramp I could get it closed a lot easier. I did consider standing on a step but thought it might be too dangerous because of ramp falling on head situation.
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Yes its irritating isnt it. Trouble is, where to put the step too. In the end I gave up on our old lorry, and had a ramp assister fitted, but it was only (!) half the cost of a hydraulic one, don't really know what it did, but it used the spare air tank to give it an extra nudge when you throw it up. South wales somewhere....
 
I am 5 foot nothing and struggled with my ramp for years (had mechanics adjust it and everything), until one of them mentioned the oil. I was a bit sceptical, but tried it and it has worked a treat ever since. You will need to clamber a bit under the lorry to get to the springs, but it might work for you as well (I have to re-do it about twice a year). Really apply liberally and use a sponge to try to get as much on there as possible - hope it works for you as well!
 
You could do what I used to do and just find a sexy bloke to give you a hand (who will prob be gay...what a waste). I always had to get strangers to help out in return for a brew or choccy - great way of getting to know people at shows! Otherwise, I'd do what everyone else has suggested on here. he he...
 
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