Individuals transporting low ground clearance automobiles frequently do not have car trailers designed for such vehicles. Most car-carrying trailers and flatbed trucks aren’t equipped to handle the special needs of a low ground clearance vehicle: The loading ramp angle of approach is too steep. Many are using wooden planks as improvised extension ramps to reduce the angle of approach. Often, the planks slip out of place as the automobile mounts them. This creates a situation where the ramps can “shoot out” from under the drive wheels: Potentially becoming lethal projectiles that can strike people and objects. Further, the vehicle can drop off the planks and become damaged as it strikes the trailer and ground.
“People are often using the wrong equipment to transport low ground clearance vehicles.” Explains Rich Heinz, President of Brute Industries, Incorporated. “Race cars, collector cars, and street rods are so low that when they encounter a trailer loading ramp that is too steep the front end frequently scrapes as the vehicle is pulled onto the ramp. Secondly, the rear can drag on the ground as the vehicle pivots upward. The third and final assault occurs when the vehicle reaches the top of the ramp and the underside “bottoms out” while passing over the fulcrum point between the ramp and trailer floor. Then, one must subject the vehicle to these same punishments in reverse order to get it off of the transport.” Heinz describes. “Owners of low ground clearance vehicles are known to get very creative when trying to remedy this situation. Most frequently, they seek a solution with lumber. They put their trust in long, narrow planks that function as improvised extension ramps, precariously bridging between the ground and the preexisting ramps to provide a reduced angle of approach. Unfortunately, this arrangement does not provide much stability. The traction between the planks and the ground is not often enough to keep the planks in place as the wheels move forward, causing the planks to shoot out like missiles. Woe to anyone, or anything, in their path. The lateral stability also is compromised, which can cause the planks to shift to the side. Whether the planks shoot backwards or move sideways, the result is the same: a car dropping and slamming onto the ground. The use of these makeshift lumber ramps can cause significant damage to the vehicle and, in the most unfortunate of cases, to the people nearby”. Heinz continues. “People familiar with our Race Ramps product line of automotive ramps came to us and asked if we could also manufacture a safer, easier alternative for getting low profile cars onto trailers. Using the same patented technology that has made our other ramp lines so successful—including lightweight, non-slip materials and 100% solid construction—we developed the Trailer Ramps product line. Trailer Ramps have a sturdy ledge on which a trailer door, the rear edge of a tilting flatbed truck, or the existing ramps of an open trailer can be placed. They raise-up the existing ramps or trailer door and stretch the angle of approach— reducing it to as little as 4°. They are held in place by the weight of the car as it starts to drive up and additionally have a textured coating, which prevents them from sliding on all surfaces. They also won’t scratch or otherwise damage driveways or painted floors. Trailer Ramps are available in different lengths and heights to suit different applications, and can also be made in custom sizes. They are extremely lightweight and have built-in handles so that they can be easily carried, positioned, or hung on a wall. As any sane person would agree, lumber is not a safe solution to the common trailer ramp/car-loading dilemma. We have found a safer way.” Heinz concludes.
To learn more about Brute Industries, Incorporated contact Rich Heinz at (866) 464-2788, or www.raceramps.com.
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Brute Industries, Inc. manufactures Race Ramps automotive ramps. The product line is produced with the company's patented ultra-lightweight 100% solid block construction. Race Ramps provide ramp solutions for low ground clearance vehicles. Off the shelf and custom solutions available.
