Introduction: Finding the Right Car Ramp – A Discovery Journey
I recently stumbled upon Project Farm’s YouTube channel and was captivated by their in-depth video comparing various car ramps. As someone who frequently works on cars, the idea of a ‘death trap’ ramp sent shivers down my spine. This comprehensive review breaks down Project Farm’s findings, highlighting key factors like stability, load capacity, and overall safety. Join me as we delve into the world of car ramps and discover how to choose the right one for your needs.
This detailed analysis will cover various brands, including Harbor Freight’s Pittsburgh plastic and steel ramps, MaxxHaul, RhinoRamp, Black Widow, BiSupply, Eastwood, M Auto, Petersen, Kiekumm, and Vowagh. We’ll analyze their performance with low-clearance vehicles, rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, and 4×4 vehicles. Additionally, we’ll examine ‘runaway’ force and ramp failure load, ensuring you make an informed decision when choosing your next set of car ramps.
Choosing the right car ramp is crucial for both safety and effective vehicle maintenance. This review will equip you with the knowledge to avoid potential ‘death traps’ and select a reliable ramp.
Detailed Step-by-Step Guide: Project Farm’s Testing Process
Step 1: Stability Testing
The initial test focused on ramp stability, particularly on smooth surfaces. Project Farm tested each ramp’s ability to stay in place when a vehicle drives up, considering factors like rubber stops and surface traction. Surprisingly, many ramps slipped, emphasizing the importance of this initial assessment. Using damp cloths under the ramps significantly improved traction in some cases, highlighting a practical tip for enhanced stability.
Step 2: Maximum Load Testing
This crucial safety test determined the maximum load each ramp could withstand before failure. While all ramps exceeded their rated capacity, the results revealed significant differences in performance. Some ramps cracked or collapsed under pressure, underscoring the necessity of choosing a ramp with a suitable load rating and robust construction.
Step 3: ‘Runaway’ Force Testing
Project Farm simulated a scenario where a vehicle is left out of gear and without the parking brake engaged. This test measured the force required for the vehicle to roll off the ramps, revealing variations in the effectiveness of the ramps’ tire stops. This test highlighted the critical safety aspect of using the emergency brake and putting the vehicle in gear when using car ramps.
Step 4: Fair Load Testing using a Hydraulic Press
To determine the ultimate strength of each ramp, Project Farm used a hydraulic press to apply increasing force until failure. This test provided valuable insights into the structural integrity of each ramp, showing how they deform and ultimately collapse under extreme pressure. The results showcased vast differences in strength and durability.
Key Takeaways
- Price isn’t always indicative of quality. Some less expensive ramps performed surprisingly well, while some pricier options showed weaknesses.
- Stability on smooth surfaces is crucial. Look for ramps with effective rubber stops or consider using damp cloths to enhance traction.
- Always use the emergency brake and put the vehicle in gear when using car ramps, regardless of how secure they seem.
- Consider the maximum load capacity of the ramp, ensuring it exceeds the weight of your vehicle and any potential loads.
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Personal Analysis and Insights
Project Farm’s testing methodology is incredibly detailed and informative. The various tests provide a comprehensive overview of each ramp’s performance, allowing viewers to make informed decisions. I particularly appreciated the ‘runaway’ force test, which highlighted a crucial safety aspect often overlooked. The video also emphasizes that even highly rated ramps can fail, reinforcing the importance of always prioritizing safety precautions.
List of Parts Used
- BiSupply
- Liekumm
- M Auto
- Black Widow
- Vowagh
- RhinoRamp
- Eastwood
- Petersen
- MaxxHaul
- Pittsburgh Plastic and Steel (Available at Harbor Freight)
Conclusion: Choosing Wisely for Your Safety
This in-depth look at car ramp safety, inspired by Project Farm’s video, underscores the importance of making informed choices. A proper car ramp is an investment in both your vehicle’s maintenance and safety. Remember to consider the key takeaways and prioritize stability, load capacity, and runaway prevention when making your selection. What are your thoughts on car ramp safety? Have you encountered any issues with car ramps? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
Attribution
This blog post is based on Project Farm’s YouTube video, ‘Is Your Car Ramp a Death Trap? Let’s Find Out!‘. Check out their channel for more insightful product comparisons and reviews. Published: 2024-09-29
