Looking for a decent set of car ramps in the 6000# range. Nothing fancy, just safe. I've looked at the plastic ones, and have been considering them. What do you guys think? What kinds do you guys use?
We use wood 8X8's with one end cut at an angle at our big truck shop, but really, I'd like something a bit better.

 

I have a pair of these, and they are OK:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/AUTO-RAMPS-STEEL-METAL-MADE-BY-PETERSEN-CAR-TRUCK-RAMPS-TIRE-RAMPS-VEHICLE-STAND/181186304085?_trksid=p2047675.m1985&_trkparms=aid%3D444000%26algo%3DSOI.CURRENT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D17115%26meid%3D340588543137672552%26pid%3D100012%26prg%3D8016%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D3%26sd%3D171080840208%26
I say "ok" because they are not long enough on approach. I have to use a 2x8 and some 1x to get our Lexus up high enough to use them, as the front air dam hits them before the tires do.

Also, they are steep enough to cause a real issue with a stick. And, with an automatic, you can end up pushing one or the other as they obviously are not going to "dig in" to concrete.

I would consider the plastic jobs, but look at the interior construction. And look at whatever they have for "non-slip" footing.

Things to look for:

--rated weight--buy a heavier rated ramp

--length and slope--longer and not so steep is "more better" imo

--width--your tires going to roll over these too easily?

--non-slip, if any

Good luck.

 

I have some heavy duty plastic ones, but wouldn't use them with my truck. I have used them with my Explorer and a Subaru GL, but the truck has so much weight on the front end I just don't trust these.
A lot of the metal ones at chain stores are really light duty thin metal.

 

I see what you're saying about getting your Lexus up there. I don't think that would be a problem for me with the 150 and my Ranger, but, the angle could still be an issue due to the Ranger being a manual trans. I sure wouldn't want to overshoot the stops!! LOL
The ratings are a bit confusing on the ones I've looked at. They don't seem to make sense to me. To myself, I'd think that, say, a 6000# capacity, would relate to 3000# on one ramp. I'm not seeing ratings like that. I've even seen somewhere that a 12000# set, each ramp was only good for 3000#? That's ridiculous, I think.
Good thoughts on what to look for. Thanks

 

Those have been my thoughts as well. How are yours rated?

 

I use jack stands mostly ( when working at home ) . I have 2 sets of ramps . I only use them on light vehicles , such as my KIA .

 

Yes, the ratings are confusing.

Mine are stamped "7000 lbs GVWR", and then the sticker says max load 4200lbs per pair. OK, I guess they figure a 7000 GVWR vehicle is going to have 4200 lbs on the front axle.

Since nothing I have weighs more than 4200lbs total, I don't worry too much.

Check your front axle actual weight if in doubt. I like a 1000 lb cushion in the rating if I'm going to wedge my fat **** under the vehicle.....

 

the only ramps i have ever seen i would even think about using were made out of 12X18X72 shoring timbers. 12 inches tall, top pad was 18X18, the other 4 1/2 foot was the drive up ramp.
they were very stable, but also VERY HEAVY.
i have seen way to many metal and plastic ramps twist and fall apart when trying to drive up on them tpo ever try using a set myself.

 

Jackstands are the only thing, other than a fulfledged hoist, I've ever used as well. Just thinking the ramps would be a little handier, but safety will NOT be compromised.

 

It just dawned on me, that I'll bet the lower rating, is the "safe working load limit", like a 10k strap tiedown, has a working load of 6600# IIRC. And the higher limit is the failure pointe?

 

Hory clap!! Those would be heavy! The pointe of the twisting and falling apart are the same concerns I have. What were those used for, big trucks?

 

An uneven surface, load off center or any damage would contribute to such failures, even if the ramps were properly designed and manufactured to begin with. Note the "IF". Whatever you go with, check the welds, check for dents or bends or anything that would compromise strength.

 

yup, we used them to get the trucks a little higher so we did not have to jack them up to do oil changes.

 

Good pointes to ponder. I'm almost thinking about not buying any, you guys got me a bit apprehensive. Likely a good thing.

 

Our mechs enjoy a pit to work in, man I hate driving over that thing, but they do use ramps when changing out a trans, clutch, etc.