Instructions / Assembly

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PATHWAY
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3G Modular Access System Assembly Manual Page 68 of 77
7.7. TIE DOWN
The Tie Down Kit (“tie down”) includes a pair of auger-style anchors for mounting the system in soil or
through asphalt, plus wire rope and hardware needed to attach the ramp or platform to the anchor.
The tie down is designed to anchor the system to resist seismic loading and hurricane-strength winds
but is not rated for specific soil conditions or seismic zones. Compliance with local building codes
usually requires anchoring calculations for the specific location, ground condition, and system
stamped by a professional engineer. Consult your sales representative if site-specific stamped
calculations are required.
Prior to installing the auger anchors into the ground, ensure that any underground electrical
conductors, natural gas lines, water/drain lines, and or other interferences are located and
will not hinder the installation.
Inspect installation regularly for any loose wire ropes, fasteners, auger anchors, etc.
Do not use concrete anchors in asphalt. Asphalt is not usually considered a suitable
surface for anchoring. Create holes in the asphalt and anchor the system to the ground
using auger-style anchors.
7.7.1. The installer, based on field conditions, will determine the exact location of the tie downs.
Generally, they should be positioned opposite one another as shown (FIG. 7.10).
7.7.2. Install the PATHWAY 3G Modular Access System to establish layout and locations. It may
be necessary to temporarily reposition components to install the anchors.
FIG. 7.10
7.7.3. For platforms, install one tie down at each corner where a support tube is installed (FIG. 7.11).
7.7.4. Place a brace band around the support tube approximately 2” below the corner pocket of a
platform and secure using the 5/16” square neck carriage bolt, 5/16”-18 nut, and 3/8” washer.
7.7.5. Place one end of the wire rope between the legs of the brace band and around the square neck
carriage bolt, then secure the wire rope together using the supplied 3/16” wire rope clamp.
7.7.6. If using the auger-style tie downs (soil and asphalt), install the auger into the ground in line
with the brace band. Install as close to vertical as possible, 10-degree angle maximum. Use a
1/2” steel rod (or similar item) through the eye of the auger anchor to turn the auger anchor
into the ground. Keep turning the auger until only the eye is exposed.
7.7.7. For concrete anchors, install per manufacturer’s instructions and then install a 5/16” eye bolt.
7.7.8. Place the other end of the wire rope either through the eye of the auger anchor or through
the eye bolt in the concrete anchor and secure the wire rope together using the supplied
3/16” wire rope clamps.
Ensure that the wire rope has been pulled taut and all slack has been removed prior to
securing it with the wire rope clamps.
7.7.9. Trim the excess wire rope as required using a cable cutter or other appropriate tool. Wrap the
trimmed ends with vinyl tape (or equivalent) to keep the wire rope from fraying.
7.7.10. Repeat for all support tubes.
7.7.11. If used on a single ramp, install tie downs approx. in the center using eye bolts (FIG. 7.10).