MCIL Ramps -- TRANSITION FROM RAMP TO GROUND: Option B

TRANSITION FROM RAMP TO GROUND

Option B: Working over concrete, blacktop, or frozen ground, four 114 l/2" joists are cut to a taper that matches the ground level. An endpiece is attached to these four joists, and this is bolted into place in the same manner as the module (this replaces Modules #5 and #6). An outrigger is placed underneath this section where the junction of Modules #5 and #6 would be. The 4x4 post is braced using this outrigger.

[sketch of end of ramp trimmed to ground with aluminum plate]

Aluminum diamond plate is skid resistant and provides a smooth transition from end of ramp to a hard surface. Attach the last piece of decking with four 1 1/4" flat head screws. Masonary screws can be used to attach plate to concrete.

To construct outrigger, cut a l l/2" x 3 1/2" notch in each outside joist where the junction of Modules #5 and #6 would be. Place a 26" long 2x4 through this notch and attach to inside joist. Stand 4x4 in place and cut a 15" long brace with a 45-degree angle cut on each end using 4x4's. Attach this brace with screws to the upright 4x4 and the horizontal 2x4.
Upper guardrail will be angled to the end of ramp and toenailed in place. Lower guardrail will be toenailed into upper guard rail.

CUTTING TAPERED JOIST NEEDED FOR OPTION B

Assemble one end piece of a module, NAILING HANGERS TO THE END PIECE ONLY. Place this end piece on top of ramp module as shown above and set a joist into each hanger making sure all 4 are parallel. The opposite end of the joist will rest on the ground. If the surface under the joist is uneven, try to level as much as possible. Place the 2x6 marking guide beside each joist and draw a pencil line from A to B. Remove each joist and cut along the pencil line. Bolt the end piece to the upper ramp module. Place tapered joist back in the hangers and install hanger nails into the two middle joists. You will be cutting a notch in the outside joists for the outrigger, so do not attach them to joist hangers until the outriggers are completed. Proceed as described above (page 33A).

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