VW mods - Wheel ramps
Some of my best ideas actually belong to others, and this is no exception. Someone
on the ev_update
list described making a set of ramps from a single 2 x 12 plank, some nonslip
material, and a few screws. The materials cost about $20, but you can cut that in
half if you forego the nonslip material.
The beauty of this design is it is simple yet versatile. There are only two
pieces - one for each wheel - yet between them you have sixteen combinations for
perfectly leveling the van (four levels on each ramp from ground to high point).
They fit together for easy storage in the rear compartment, with plenty of room
for other stuff (see photo). Sure, you can spend $60 for equivalent functionality
from Camping World, but why?
Constructing the ramps
Get a single 2 x 12 plank and cut into six pieces: two 10", two 20", and two 30".
I then cut a 45 degree angle on one end of each piece to make it easier for the tire
to climb the ramp, but I'm not sure this was necessary. In fact, one might argue
the tire gets better traction on a 90 degree cut than on a 45 degree cut. For what
it's worth, I haven't had any slippage issues.
Screw the 20" piece to the 30" piece; then screw the 10" piece to the 20"/30" assembly.
Repeat for the other ramp. The nonslip material I used had adhesive on the bottom,
so I simply removed the backing and stuck it on. I used a staple gun to better secure
the nonslip material in several places.
The wheel ramps are pretty heavy, so I drilled several large holes in the bottom
to reduce weight. I was careful to avoid hitting screws and to not drill so much
material as to dangerously weaken it.
Close up view of the front wheel on the ramp.
Close up view of the rear wheel on the ramp.
Turning the ramp upside down reveals the weight-lightening holes drilled in the
bottom.
Side view of one of the ramps.
The ramps fit together compactly for storage.
The ramps fit neatly in the rear storage area, with plenty of room for other stuff