I'm looking for ideas on ways to add some strength to our ramp door. We primarily use our toy hauler for our Jeep, and it puts a pretty good strain on the ramp door when we load it. I am currently using old timber planks to spread the load, but it's cumbersome and just something I'd like to do away with. My thoughts would be some sort of flip down jacks or supports that mount in the center span of the door, and can be adjusted for uneven terrain when the ramp is deployed for loading. I don't want to put anything on the top/inside of the ramp, as that would become a tripping hazard when we have it setup as the elevated patio... Anyhow, just looking for ideas or input from anyone that has done something similar? Thanks in advance!

It will be interesting to see what advice you get. Having seen how little structure there is to these doors, I'm surprised you haven't broken it yet. I think most only have a 1000 or 2000lb weight limit.

I would use two 4X6 blocks to support mid span on the sides plus an assortment of 2X4s to make them work/support near the mid point.

Saw a TH on the road not too long ago where they had bolted steel channels to to the door on the outside. If you picture the door in the up position, the channels ran up and down. Thought it was kind of odd when I first saw it but then realized that's probably what they were doing, reinforcing the door.

Do the trailer floor while you are at it.

FrankoToo wrote:Saw a TH on the road not too long ago where they had bolted steel channels to to the door on the outside. If you picture the door in the up position, the channels ran up and down. Thought it was kind of odd when I first saw it but then realized that's probably what they were doing, reinforcing the door.Rather than channel, box tube would be stronger. Maybe 1-1/2" square. But you have to drill access holes for installing the nuts to bolt them to the ramp. Use grade 5 or 8 bolts for a smaller size bolt and nut, but fender washers on the bolt head. I'd use two in the area of each tire path. You can also use temp blocks in the center of the ramp.

Ramp Door Reinforcement | Good Sam Community

Bob_E_
Explorer
Jan 11, 2018
It will be interesting to see what advice you get. Having seen how little structure there is to these doors, I'm surprised you haven't broken it yet. I think most only have a 1000 or 2000lb weight limit.
Ivylog
Explorer III
Jan 11, 2018
I would use two 4X6 blocks to support mid span on the sides plus an assortment of 2X4s to make them work/support near the mid point.
FrankoToo
Explorer II
Jan 11, 2018
Saw a TH on the road not too long ago where they had bolted steel channels to to the door on the outside. If you picture the door in the up position, the channels ran up and down. Thought it was kind of odd when I first saw it but then realized that's probably what they were doing, reinforcing the door.
discovery4us
Explorer
Jan 11, 2018
Do the trailer floor while you are at it.
Dayle1
Explorer II
Jan 12, 2018
FrankoToo wrote:
Saw a TH on the road not too long ago where they had bolted steel channels to to the door on the outside. If you picture the door in the up position, the channels ran up and down. Thought it was kind of odd when I first saw it but then realized that's probably what they were doing, reinforcing the door.

Rather than channel, box tube would be stronger. Maybe 1-1/2" square. But you have to drill access holes for installing the nuts to bolt them to the ramp. Use grade 5 or 8 bolts for a smaller size bolt and nut, but fender washers on the bolt head. I'd use two in the area of each tire path. You can also use temp blocks in the center of the ramp.
TWZMYJP
Explorer
Jan 12, 2018
I like the idea of some additional structural ribs on the outside of the ramp. Also gives a way to attach a bracket for a scissor jack or something in the middle of the span. Thanks for the input!
Dirtclods
Explorer
Jan 13, 2018
How about something like this to displace the weight

36 in. x 36 in. x 0.025 in. Diamond Tread Aluminum Sheet in Silver

https://www.homedepot.com/p/M-D-Building-Products-36-in-x-36-in-x-0-025-in-Diamond-Tread-Aluminum-Sheet-in-Silver-57307/203930831
nayther
Explorer
Jan 15, 2018
the ramp is going to get VERY heavy. Might be too much strain on the springs, hinges and latches.
Y-Guy
Moderator
Jan 15, 2018
I'm thinking if you were to place steel angle bar along the outside about where the wheels would go, it might take a few bars to help distribute the weight. Then use something like the Fulton Camper Jack or another heavy duty leg that could be attached before dropping the ramp down to take some of the load.
Wild_Card
Explorer
Jan 15, 2018
What does that jeep weigh vs what the mfg specs in the cargo area?. Not GCCC on the sticker. That is water,waste,cloths and toothbrush.

Never seen a toyhauler with more than 2500 to 3500lbs capacity in the cargo area.

I ask this because the ramp and the Jeep are the least of your prolems.

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