Assembly Manual PATHWAY® 3G Modular Access System Image shown with multiple ramp and platform handrail options. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Please register at www.ezaccess.com/warranty-satisfaction. © EZ-ACCESS®, a division of Homecare Products, Inc. All rights reserved. All text and images contained in this document are proprietary and may not be shared, modified, distributed, reproduced, or reused without the express written permission of EZ-ACCESS.
INTRODUCTION Throughout this manual, the term “system” refers to the entire PATHWAY® 3G Modular Access System, including ramps, platforms, stairs, handrails, gates, transition plates, landing pads, and any/all hardware and components which are intended to be assembled on the PATHWAY 3G Modular Access System. SYMBOLS The WARNING symbol indicates a potentially hazardous condition/situation.
WARNINGS, CONT’D. Aluminum conducts electricity. Do not use the system during electrical storms or in proximity to damaged or exposed wiring. Properly support and restrain the system in transit or storage. For additional care, usage, or general safety information, please call 1-800-451-1903.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1: BASIC SYSTEM COMPONENTS IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS ......................................................................................................................... 5-11 SECTION 2: PLATFORMS INSTALL PLATFORMS ........................................................................................................................................ 12 INSTALL SUPPORT TUBES AND FEET, THEN ADJUST PLATFORM HEIGHT....................................................
1. BASIC SYSTEM COMPONENTS Because each ramp configuration will differ from one another, your system may or may not contain all these basic system components. Identify your system components before you begin. All ramp handrail frames, regardless of fill (two-line, vertical, or horizontal pickets) install identically.
KEY RAMP COMPONENTS PSLXXPR – SUPPORT LEG PAIRS PRGT & PRGT48 RAMP GROUND TRANSITION 18” X 36” and 18” X 48” XX DENOTES USABLE LENGTH (LENGTHS AVAILABLE 10” THROUGH 100” IN 6” INCREMENTS) SHOWN ASSEMBLED PRHBPR – RAMP HANDRAIL END BRACKET (PAIR) PRRUC – UNIVERSAL CONNECTOR – RAMP TO RAMP INCLUDES COMPONENTS TO CONNECT RAMPS AND RAMP HANDRAILS PRSUT – UNIVERSAL RAMP SUPPORT – TOP RAMP HANGER PAIR USED WHEN LEGS SUPPORT UPPER OR LOWER END OF RAMP ONLY 1 PATHWAY® 3G Modular Access System Assembly Man
KEY RAMP COMPONENTS, CONT’D.
PLATFORMS AND PLATFORM HANDRAIL OPTIONS PLATFORM (STRAIGHT CONFIGURATION) W/ TWO-LINE HANDRAILS PLATFORM (TURN CONFIGURATION) W/ TWO-LINE HANDRAILS PLATFORM W/ VERTICAL PICKET HANDRAILS PLATFORM W/ HORIZONTAL PICKET HANDRAILS PLATFORM (8’ X 5’ TURN BACK) W/ TWO-LINE HANDRAILS 1 PATHWAY® 3G Modular Access System Assembly Manual Page 8 of 77
PLATFORM AND PLATFORM HANDRAIL OPTIONS, CONT’D.
KEY PLATFORM COMPONENTS PPPC – CONNECTOR – PLATFORM TO PLATFORM PPTS – PLATFORM TIE STRAP PBP36, PBP48, PBP60 – BRIDGE PLATE PRLWALP – RAMP LEG WELDED ALUMINUM – LOW PROFILE PAIR PPLPGT06, PPLPGT08, PPLPGT10, PPLPGT12, PPLPBT48 LOW PROFILE GROUND TRANSITION OR BRIDGE TRANSITION 1 PATHWAY® 3G Modular Access System Assembly Manual Page 10 of 77
CLOSURE OPTIONS PPCVP4, PPCVP5, PPCVP6 VERTICAL PICKET CLOSURE HANDRAIL PPCTL – TWO-LINE CLOSURE HANDRAIL PPCHP – HORIZONTAL PICKET CLOSURE HANDRAIL ADDITIONAL OPTIONS PTDK – TIE DOWN KIT PUAB – UNIVERSAL ANGLE BRACE PUCB4, PUCB5 & PUCB8 – UNIVERSAL CROSS BRACE • • • PLP – LANDING PAD PUCB4 USED ON 4’ PLATFORM SIDE PUCB5 USED ON 5’ & 6’ PLATFORM SIDES PUCB8 USED ON 8’ PLATFORM SIDE PUG36 – UNIVERSAL GATE 36” 1 PATHWAY® 3G Modular Access System Assembly Manual Page 11 of 77
2. PLATFORMS 2.1. INSTALL PLATFORMS If your system does not include a platform, skip to ‘CONNECT RAMP SECTIONS’. Platform handrails are shown for clarity on how to orient platforms in various configurations. It is strongly suggested that all platforms and ramps be assembled before installing handrails (see ‘HANDRAILS’ section). 2.1.1. There are four basic platform arrangements (one or more of these arrangements may be used in an installation). All four require the same procedure for assembly except for FIG.
2.2. INSTALL SUPPORT TUBES AND FEET, THEN ADJUST PLATFORM HEIGHT 2.2.1. Support tubes, plugs, and feet come in pairs. Support tubes will come in lengths sufficient for the heights at specific locations. 2.2.2. Loosen all set screws in the platform corner pockets. 2.2.2.1. The set screws on the outside of the platform are for the platform support tubes. 2.2.2.2. The set screws on the inside of the platform (one above the deck and one below the deck) are for the handrail posts. 2.2.3.
2.2.6. Lift each corner of the platform and install a base foot on each support tube oriented so that the foot extends under the platform (FIG. 2.5). The feet can be oriented in other directions if necessary due to site conditions but may present a tripping hazard if not oriented under the platform. It is the installer’s responsibility to install the system in a manner that is safe for the people on and around the system and clearly mark any hazards created by the installation. 2.2.7.
FIG. 2.6 FIG. 2.
2.4. 45-DEGREE ANGLE PLATFORM This platform is used between two ramps to make a 45-degree turn and features a symmetrical design, making it usable in either direction. 2.4.1. There are two handrail options for 45-degree Angle Platforms: Two-Line and Vertical Pickets. The platform includes the handrail components needed for the option ordered. Platform handrails are shown for clarity on how to orient platforms in various configurations.
2.6. LOW PROFILE PLATFORM 2.6.1. Low profile platforms are 1-9/16” thick (tall) as compared to standard platforms which are approximately 3-1/2” thick (tall). 2.6.2. There are three types of low profile platforms (one or more of these platform arrangements may be used in an installation). FIG. 2.9 Low profile platform straight configuration FIG. 2.10 Low profile platform turn configuration FIG. 2.
2.6.5. INSTALL RAMPS ON LOW PROFILE PLATFORMS This section addresses the attachment of a ramp (or ramp run) to a platform. If the ramp needs to be angled with respect to the platform section, skip to ‘ANGLE RAMPS WITH RESPECT TO PLATFORMS, PORCHES, OR DECKS’ in SECTION 3. 2.6.5.1. Locate the PRHPLP (RAMP HANGER PAIR LOW PROFILE). Install two hangers onto the side of the platform where the ramp will be attached. 2.6.5.2.
2.6.5.3. Set the ramp on the hangers, ensuring that the hangers are positioned as close as possible to the ramp side rails (FIG. 2.14). The procedure is the same at both the top and bottom of ramp runs which end at a platform unless a low profile ground or bridge transition is used. Do not attempt to walk on system until installation is complete. 2.6.5.4. Proceed with the system installation.
2.6.6. INSTALL LOW PROFILE PLATFORM HANDRAILS 2.6.6.1. Handrail assembly for low profile platforms is the same as standard platforms. Refer to ‘HANDRAILS’ and assemble for desired configuration. The only installation difference between low profile platforms and standard platforms is where the handrail inserts into the platform corner pockets. On the low profile platform, both handrail set screws are above the platform walking surface (FIG. 2.
Bridge transitions must be level, extend onto the adjacent landing or platform a minimum of 1”, and have a 6” maximum gap between the low profile platform and the adjacent landing or platform. Bridge transitions must be secured to the adjacent landing or platform. It is the installer’s responsibility to choose the appropriate fastener based on the landing material and ensure the landing is structurally sufficient to support all applied loads. 2.6.7.2.
2.6.7.7. Continue holding the low profile ground or bridge transition in place while setting the low profile platform onto the ground (if being used as a ground transition) or back on its legs (if being used as a bridge transition) in the desired position, then allow the ground or bridge transition to rotate down onto the surface where it will rest. FIG. 2.17 FIG. 2.
2.6.7.8. The installed low profile ground or bridge transition is shown (FIG. 2.19). 2.6.7.9. If using as a bridge transition, check and adjust the height of the platform until the bridge transition is level. Attach the bridge transition to the platform or landing using fasteners appropriate for the surface (provided by the installer) through the two 1/4” holes in the corners. If using as a ground transition, anchoring is optional. FIG. 2.19 LOW PROFILE GROUND TRANSITION OR BRIDGE TRANSITION 2.7.
2.8. INSTALL UNIVERSAL CROSS BRACE 2.8.1. Install universal cross braces on all support tubes when the walking surface is 72” or higher above the ground. Cross braces are normally installed on all four sides unless two platforms are connected. 2.8.2. Use four braces per platform or six braces when two platforms are connected. 2.8.3. Separate ends of brace bands until they fit around the 1-1/2” support leg. 2.8.4.
3. RAMPS 3.1. CONNECT RAMP SECTIONS 3.1.1. Place the walking surface side of the ramp sections face down, onto cardboard or lawn so that the ramp is not damaged (scratched or dented). When installing a single ramp section, skip to ‘INSTALL A SINGLE RAMP RUN TO AN EXISTING STRUCTURE’. 3.1.2.
3.2. INSTALL RAMPS ON PLATFORMS This section addresses the attachment of a ramp or ramp run to a platform. If the ramp needs to be angled with respect to the platform or is going to be attached to an existing porch, skip to ‘ANGLE RAMPS WITH RESPECT TO PLATFORMS, PORCHES, OR DECKS’. 3.2.1. Ramps are typically located toward either the left or right side of the platform or centered but can be placed in any location on a platform side except when using a ‘VERTICAL PICKET CLOSURE’ (outlined in SECTION 5).
3.3. ATTACH SUPPORT LEG BRACKETS AND LEGS TO RAMPS 3.3.1. Install the Support Leg Bracket (included with PRRUC) on the center studs of the Center Saddle Bracket (ramp connector included with PRRUC) with the round hole on the upper stud and the curved slot over the lower stud (FIG. 3.5). 3.3.2. Attach the Support Leg Bracket using the provided 5/16” flat washers and 5/16”-18 nylon insert locknuts onto the studs but do not tighten fully until the bracket has been leveled. FIG. 3.5 FIG. 3.
3.3.3. Level the Support Leg Bracket using a bubble level or similar tool, then torque the 5/16”18 nylon insert locknuts to 20 ft.-lbs. 3.3.4. Locate the appropriate PRLxxPR (RAMP LEG PAIR where “xx” denotes the leg length) for the location. Place a foot under the Support Leg Bracket with the foot extending under the ramp, then insert a 1-1/2” square Support Leg through the Support Leg Bracket into the foot.
3.3.10. Adjust the ramp legs one at a time. 3.3.11. Raise the ramp sections (at the center saddle bracket) to take any sag out of the ramp run, then tighten the two locknuts in each leg. ADA guidelines call for a maximum slope of 1:12 (approximately 5 degrees) and this is the ideal slope for the system. However, the ramps can be installed from 1:14 to 1:8 (approximately 4 to 7 degrees. Do not attempt to install the ramps outside this range.
3.5. INSTALL RAMP GROUND TRANSITION 3.5.1. The PRGT (RAMP GROUND TRANSITION) consists of two sections that need to be installed into the ramp and connected together. The PRGT (RAMP GROUND TRANSITION) is only designed to transition from the lowest ramp in the run to the ground. Do NOT USE it in any other location. 3.5.2. Lift the lowest end of the ramp/ramp run and bring the upper section of the PRGT into the ramp end tread until the “hook” is engaged (FIG. 3.10). 3.5.3. Rotate into place (FIG. 3.
LOWER SECTION OF RAMP GROUND TRANSITION UPPER SECTION OF RAMP GROUND TRANSITION FIG. 3.12 FIG. 3.
3.6. INSTALL A SINGLE RAMP RUN TO AN EXISTING STRUCTURE If installing a ramp run to an existing landing other than a PATHWAY 3G Platform, such as a porch, deck, stairs, etc., follow these steps: 3.6.1. Turn the ramp section upside down on a flat surface. Do this on cardboard or a lawn so that the ramp is not damaged (scratched or dented). 3.6.2. Locate PRHBPR (RAMP HANDRAIL END BRACKET PAIR). Install four end brackets (will be used to attach handrails in a later step).
3.7. ANCHOR RAMP UPPER TRANSITION The PRUT (RAMP UPPER TRANSITION) must be anchored to a substantial surface. Use the pre-drilled holes at each corner of the PRUT (RAMP UPPER TRANSITION) as guides. 3.7.1. IF RESTING ON A WOOD SURFACE: 3.7.1.1. Secure PRUT (RAMP UPPER TRANSITION) by installing the 1/4” x 1” long self-drilling screw through each hole (FIG. 3.17). 3.7.2. IF RESTING ON A CONCRETE SURFACE: 3.7.2.1.
3.8. ANGLE RAMPS WITH RESPECT TO PLATFORMS, PORCHES, OR DECKS There are situations where it is necessary to angle ramps with respect to a platform, porch, or deck. If a ramp must be angled when attaching to a platform, a PRUT (RAMP UPPER TRANSITION) or PRLT (RAMP LOWER TRANSITION) with a PRST (RAMP SUPPORT TOP) must be used instead of a PRHP (RAMP HANGER PAIR). The same components can be used at the top and bottom of ramp or ramp runs depending on the angle required. 3.8.1.
4. HANDRAILS 4.1. RAMP WITHOUT HANDRAILS 4.1.1. Attach Starter Ramp Support to the 5/16”-18 threaded insert located on the underside of the first ramp run, using a 5/16”-18 x 1-1/2” hex bolt with 5/16” washer (FIG. 4.1). FIG. 4.1 5/16”-18 X 1-1/2” HEX BOLT 4.2. RAMP HANDRAILS 4.2.1. Ramp handrails are provided in pairs. Regardless of style, it is strongly recommended the bolts be assembled loosely and not fully tightened until all have been installed and the handrail has been installed on the ramp. 4.2.2.
4.2.3.4. Slide the next handrail section over the connector, ensuring the upper handrail tubes are pushed firmly towards each other. Compress the connector. Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to fully seat as needed. 4.2.3.5. Rotate the handrail until the holes in the handrail post align with the studs in the saddle brackets that are connected to the ramp. Attach with 5/16” flat washers and 5/16”-18 nuts but tighten only enough to hold the handrail in place. 4.2.3.6.
4.3.3. Using holes shown (FIG. 4.5) for Vertical Picket platform handrails, pre-assemble handrails by inserting a 5/16”-18 x 1” long hex bolt through a 5/16” flat washer, the angle post, and into a 5/16”-18 round threaded insert in the handrail or square threaded insert in the vertical pickets. FIG. 4.5 4.3.4.
4.4.3. For the “second” handrail in a turn configuration, only assemble one angle post as described above, paying attention to how it will connect to the “first” handrail so the angle post will be oriented correctly. 4.4.4. For straight platform configurations and the “first” handrail on a turn platform, drop platform handrails into the corner pockets (FIG. 4.8). The curb should rest on top of the corner pocket when installing the Two-Line handrails.
4.5. 8’ X 5’ TURN BACK PLATFORM HANDRAILS (OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT) 4.5.1. The 8’ x 5’ Turn Back Platform is used to create a turn back (or switchback) instead of connecting two 5’ x 4’ platforms. It includes two standard 5’ platform handrails and handrails for the 8’ side with a curb. 4.5.2. Refer to ‘INSTALL STANDARD PLATFORM HANDRAILS’ for 5’ platform handrails. 4.5.3.
FIG. 4.11 4.6. 45-DEGREE ANGLE PLATFORM HANDRAILS (OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT) 4.6.1. There are two options for 45-degree Angle Platform handrails: Two-Line and Vertical Pickets. The platform includes the handrail components needed for the option ordered. 4.6.2. Assembling either 45-degree Angle Platform Two-Line or Vertical Picket handrails should be completed after all ramps and platforms have been set and the ramp handrails have been installed.
4.6.4. Insert adjustable elbows into the ramp handrails and the Bolt-On Stub Rails (FIG. 4.14). 4.6.5. Loosen the elbow assembly screws and position the adjustable elbows so they are aligned with the adjustable elbows on the opposite side (but do not tighten), then measure the distance between the two larger round faces. Measure both upper and lower gaps because they could be different (FIG. 4.14). 4.6.5.1. Trim the tubes accordingly. 4.6.6.
4.6.8. Insert one half of the elbow into the ramp handrail and the other half into the leg of the handrail extension above the connector plate (FIG. 4.15). 4.6.9. Let the connector plate rest against the ramp handrail post and reassemble the adjustable elbow. 4.6.10. Secure the connector plate to the ramp handrail post using a 1/4”-20 x 1” self-drilling, selftapping hex washer head screw (FIG. 4.15). 4.6.11. Attach a Bolt-On Stub Rail to the ramp handrail post on the opposite side of the welded “H”.
4.6.12. Insert adjustable elbows into the open ramp handrail, the Bolt-On Stub Rail, and the open ends of the welded handrail extension (FIG. 4.17). 4.6.13. Align the adjustable elbows and measure and trim the 1-1/2” diameter handrail tubes connecting the ramp handrail and Bolt-On Stub Rail to the handrail extension. Measure both upper and lower gaps because they could be different and trim tubes accordingly.
FIG. 4.18 FIG. 4.
4.6.18. For the “long” side of the 45-degree Angle Platform, there are two welded Vertical Picket panels which are inserted into the corner pockets then bolted together. Left hand and right hand refer to looking at the “long” side from the “short” side. Insert both into their respective corner pockets and align the bottom of the posts with the bottom of the corner pockets. Bolt the two sections together using 5/16”-18 x 1” hex bolts, 5/16” flat washers, and 5/16”-18 nuts as shown (FIG. 4.20). 4.6.19.
FIG. 4.21 4.6.22. Install an adjustable elbow in the last open ramp handrail and align with the adjustable elbow at the split between the Vertical Picket panels. Measure the gap between the large round faces, trim a 1-1/2” diameter handrail tube to fit the gap, and install the handrail tube (FIG. 4.22). The procedure for installing the 1-1/2” diameter handrail tubes and adjustable elbows is the same as installing the closure top rail. 4.6.23.
1-1/2” DIAMETER TUBE TRIMMED TO FIT GAP FIG. 4.22 FIG. 4.
5. CLOSURES Closures fill the space between ramp handrails and platform posts. Like the ramp and platform handrails, they are available in Two-Line and Vertical Pickets. As a standard, the closures come with components that require the ramp to be mounted to one side or the other of a platform, but the ramp can also be centered or mounted in any location on a platform side except when using the Vertical Picket Closure (refer to SECTION 5.6).
5.4.3. 5.4.4. 5.4.5. 5.4.6. Trim the 1-1/2” diameter round tube to the length measured less 1/16” (FIG. 5.3). Using a metal file, smooth any sharp edges from the trimming. Disassemble the adjustable elbow by removing the screw and nut (FIG. 5.4). Install an elbow half into the end of the trimmed tube which will attach to the ramp handrail and a 5/16”-18 round threaded insert into the end which will attach to the post (FIG. 5.3). 5.4.7. Reassemble elbow with the screw and nut (FIG. 5.4).
5.4.8. Install a 5/16”-18 x 1” hex bolt through a 5/16” flat washer and the upper hole in the angle post into the 5/16”-18 round threaded insert (FIG. 5.5), then tighten all fasteners securely. 5.4.9. Drill 3/32” or 1/8” pilot holes through the 1-1/2” diameter tubes adjacent to the elbows. The holes should be in line with the assembly fasteners and approximately 1/4” from the elbow (FIG. 5.6). 5.4.10.
5.4.14. Measure the gap between the long leg of the bracket and the post, then trim the 1-1/2” x 2” curb to the measured length, less 1/8” to account for the threaded inserts which will be installed after trimming (FIG. 5.8). 5.4.15. Insert 5/16”-18 square threaded inserts into both ends of the curb. Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to fully seat the threaded inserts as needed (FIG. 5.8). 5.4.16.
5.5. TWO-LINE CLOSURE LOWER RAIL 5.5.1. Locate a platform closure bracket. Clamp the closure bracket to the ramp handrail post such that the short leg is centered on the lower Two-Line ramp handrail and aligned with the post. Orient the bracket so the long leg is on the same side as and parallel to the platform post (FIG. 5.10). 5.5.2. Measure the gap between the long leg of the closure bracket and platform post (FIG. 5.11). 5.5.3.
5.6. VERTICAL PICKET CLOSURE 5.6.1. Vertical Picket Closures are specific to the platform size (4’, 5’, and 6’) and come in two pieces which allow the ramp to be mounted to one side or be centered on a platform. If the ramp is to be centered on a platform, additional components are needed. The additional components will come with the closure if specified at the time of order, but the closure can be converted to allow the ramp to be centered in the field by ordering a second set of hardware. 5.6.2.
5.6.4. Attach the Vertical Picket Closure to the platform handrail post using 5/16”-18 x 3/4” long hex bolts, 5/16” flat washers, and 5/16”-18 nuts (FIG. 5.15). When centering the ramp, attach one section (unassembled) to the platform posts on both sides of the ramp and secure in the same manner. 5.6.5.
5.7. HORIZONTAL PICKET CLOSURE 5.7.1. The Horizontal Picket Closure includes a special bracket that is attached to the ramp handrail post. If the ramp handrail has Horizontal or Vertical Pickets, remove the 5/16”-18 x 2-1/4” hex bolt and 5/16” flat washer attaching the upper and lower rail then reinstall through the slots in the horizontal picket closure bracket as shown in FIG. 5.18.
FIG. 5.20 5.8. TWO-LINE AND VERTICAL PICKET TURN BACK CLOSURE 5.8.1. There are two special closures available for filling the space between two ramps in a turn back configuration. The Two-Line Turn Back Closure can be used with platforms of any size, but the 8’ x 5’ Vertical Picket Closure can only be used with the 8’ x 5’ platform.
1-1/2” DIAMETER TUBE TRIMMED TO FIT GAP FIG. 5.21 FIG. 5.22 5.8.12. Measure the gap between the long leg of the closure brackets and trim the 1-1/2” x 2” curb to the measured gap length less 1/8” to account for the threaded inserts which will be installed after trimming (FIG. 5.23). 5.8.13. Install 5/16”-18 square threaded inserts into both ends of the trimmed curb. Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to fully seat the threaded inserts (FIG. 5.23). 5.8.14.
FIG. 5.24 5.8.16. If installing a Two-Line Turn Back Closure, a second 1-1/2” diameter round tube is installed in the same manner as the curb at the bottom. Orient the brackets so the long leg is on the same side as and parallel to the bracket on the opposite side, the short leg is aligned with the ramp handrail post, and the tops of the brackets are 20-1/2” above the tops of the brackets attaching the curb. Clamp in place temporarily if needed (FIG. 5.25). 5.8.17.
FIG. 5.25 1-1/2” DIAMETER TUBE TRIMMED TO FIT WITH THREADED INSERTS INSTALLED 8’ X 5’ VERTICAL PICKET CLOSURE FIG. 5.
6. FINAL PLATFORM/RAMP STEPS AND CHECKS 6.1. SECURE RAMPS TO PLATFORMS 6.1.1. Once positioning of all ramps and platforms, and installation of all handrails, connectors, and end loops are complete, you will need to secure ramps to platforms with Ramp End Clips (included in PRHP – RAMP HANGER PAIR). Use two Ramp End Clips at all locations where ramps meet platforms. 6.1.2. Position each Ramp End Clip with the hole pointing up and oriented as shown in FIG. 6.
6.2. INSTALL RAMP HANDRAIL END LOOPS 6.2.1. The system may include end loops (FIG. 6.4). Upper and lower end loops are installed in the same manner. If the end loop being installed does not fit correctly (i.e., the attachment plate is angled in the wrong direction, the lower leg seems too long or short, etc.), you are most likely trying to install it on the wrong end of the ramp or ramp run. 6.2.1.1. Install the O-ring over the swaged portion of the end loop until it rests against the loop shoulder (FIG. 6.
FIG. 6.6 6.3. INSTALL RAMP HANDRAIL END CAPS 6.3.1. Use plastic end caps when there are any remaining open ends on the handrails (FIG. 6.7). Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to fully seat as needed. If necessary, use construction adhesive to bond the cap to the ramp handrail. 6.4. INSTALL RAMP CORNER PROTECTORS 6.4.1. Install protective caps over side rail corners by placing one cap on each side at both the top and bottom of the ramp or ramp run (FIG. 6.8).
7. OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT 7.1. RAMP SUPPORT TOP The PRST (RAMP SUPPORT TOP) provides supplemental support at the upper (or lower) end of the ramp. When used, the PRST (RAMP SUPPORT TOP) replaces the PRHBPR (RAMP HANDRAIL END BRACKET PAIR). 7.1.1. Attach top support brackets with two 5/16”-18 x 1-1/2” hex bolts and two 5/16” flat washers (FIG. 7.1).
7.2. RAMP LOWER TRANSITION 7.2.1. The lower transition, in combination with a PRST (RAMP SUPPORT TOP), is commonly used to span wider gaps or accommodate larger angular misalignment than can be achieved with an upper transition. It can also be used in place of the ground transition in some situations. Despite being called a lower transition, it can be used at either end of a ramp or ramp run. The lower transition is the larger of the two transitions. 7.2.2.
7.4. LANDING PAD 7.4.1. The PLP (LANDING PAD) is used at the bottom of a ramp or ramp run to assist mobility on soft ground. Contour the ground to remove any high or low areas which would prevent portions of the Landing Pad from contacting the ground. The underside of the Landing Pad must be fully supported by the ground. It should never be used in an elevated position like a ramp or a platform. 7.4.2. Slide the bottom plate into one of the three available slots (FIG. 7.5).
7.4.4. Lift the lower end of the ramp and install lower transition as described (see ‘RAMP LOWER TRANSITION’), then slide the pad underneath. Make sure the ramp is on the side marked for ramp attachment and ensure that the lower transition extends fully onto the pad. 7.4.5. Attach lower transition to the pad using two provided 1/4” self-drilling screws (FIG. 7.7). 7.5. PLATFORM TIE STRAPS 7.5.1.
7.6. LIGHTNING GROUND ROD Because aluminum can conduct electricity, the PLGRK (LIGHTNING GROUND ROD KIT) is available and provides the components needed to ground a ramp system. Prior to installing, ensure that any underground electrical conductors, natural gas lines, water/drain lines, and or other interferences are located and will not hinder the installation. 7.6.1.
7.7. TIE DOWN The Tie Down Kit (“tie down”) includes a pair of auger-style anchors for mounting the system in soil or through asphalt, plus wire rope and hardware needed to attach the ramp or platform to the anchor. The tie down is designed to anchor the system to resist seismic loading and hurricane-strength winds but is not rated for specific soil conditions or seismic zones.
7.7.12. If there are support tubes in the ramp run, the same method as described above for platforms can be used. Otherwise, drill a 5/16” hole below the tread surface (approximately 3/4” above the bottom of the side rail) and between the ribs underneath the treads in each of the side rails at the desired location. 7.7.13. Install one of the 5/16” eye bolts and secure to the ramp using one 5/16” flat washer and one 5/16” nut in each hole (FIG. 7.12). 7.7.14.
7.8. GATE 7.8.1. The Modular Gate 36” (“gate”) can be installed to swing in either direction. Determine which side the hinge should be on and the direction the gate should swing before starting the installation (FIG. 7.13). 7.8.2. Using a rubber mallet, tap the provided round tube plugs into the tubing ends (FIG. 7.14). FIG. 7.13 1-1/2” DIAMETER TUBE PLUG FIG. 7.14 7.8.3. Position the gate hinge against the vertical handrail post.
7.8.5. Remove gravity latch and finger catch from bag. 7.8.5.1. IMPORTANT! Discard the screws included in the same bag as the gravity latch and finger catch, as they will not be used. Instead, use the screws included in the separate hardware bag for the following steps. 7.8.6. Center the finger catch on the gate square tube opposite the hinge and mark center of holes with a pencil. Drill three 1/8” holes through one side of the vertical handrail tube (FIG. 7.17). 7.8.7.
7.9. CONNECT 45-DEGREE ANGLE PLATFORM WITH TWO-LINE RAILS TO STANDARD PLATFORM 7.9.1. The 45-degree Angle Platform can also be connected to a standard square or rectangular platform. Install support tubes in both platforms and set at the desired height. Refer to SECTION 2.2 for installing support tubes and feet in the standard platform and SECTION 2.4 for installing support tubes and feet in the 45-degree Angle Platform. The 45-degree Angle Platform can be connected to platform sides up to 6’.
7.9.8. The procedure for installing the 1-1/2” diameter upper and lower tubes is the same as described in SECTION 4.6 except the connection is between an adjustable elbow and a closure elbow instead of between two adjustable elbows. Align the opposing round faces, measure the upper and lower gaps separately, trim and install the upper and lower tubes, and reassemble the elbows as described in SECTION 4.6 (FIG. 7.23). FIG. 7.22 FIG. 7.
7.9.9. Locate the closure bracket and screw to the platform side rail using a 1/4” x 1” self-drilling, self-tapping pan head Phillips screw and a 1/4” flat washer. 7.9.10. Center the long leg of the closure bracket with respect to the 2” x 2” angle post and align the short leg (approximately) with the 45-degree Angle Platform corner pocket, then screw the short leg to the platform side rail using a 1/4” x 1” self-drilling, self-tapping pan head Phillips screw and 1/4” flat washer (FIG. 7.24). 7.9.11.
7.9.14. Attach two more closure elbows to the 2” x 2” angle post in the 45-degree Angle Platform and two to the angle post where the closure will connect with 5/16”-18 x 3/4” hex cap screws. Use the holes shown (the uppermost and the third from the top). Tighten enough to hold the elbows in place but still allow them to rotate (FIG. 7.25). 7.9.15. The procedure for installing the 1-1/2” diameter upper and lower tubes at the closure is the same as described in SECTION 4.
8. MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY 8.1. PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY 8.1.1. Always exercise caution when handling, assembling, and or using the system. Proper maintenance and upkeep of the ramp surface is vital. 8.1.2. If needed, use a qualified helper when using the system. 8.1.3. Always use a lap belt if using the system with mobility equipment. 8.1.4.
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