PATHWAY® HD Code Compliant Modular Access System Assembly Manual Image shown with multiple ramp and platform rail options. 3-YEAR WARRANTY. Please register at www.ezaccess.com/warranty-satisfaction. © EZ-ACCESS®, a division of Homecare Products, Inc. All rights reserved. All text and images contained in this document are proprietary and may not be shared, modified, distributed, reproduced, or reused without the express written permission of EZ-ACCESS.
PATHWAY® HD Code Compliant Modular Access System Assembly Manual ATTENTION INSTALLER and END USER Rated Load: 100 lbs. psf live load, 300 lbs. concentrated. DO NOT EXCEED RATED LOAD. Read this manual in its entirety, ensuring you understand all instructions and warnings prior to ramp assembly and use. Ensure this ASSEMBLY MANUAL is left with the end user. Please read and become familiar with the ‘MAINTENANCE’ section of this manual. Fill out online warranty registration.
WARNINGS Do not play on or near ramp. Do not use handrails or ramp to support planters, decorations, etc. RAMP SURFACE MAY BECOME SLIPPERY WHEN WET, USE EXTRA CAUTION WHEN THE RAMP SURFACE IS WET. Use ramp only with a qualified helper. Always use your mobility device’s lap belt. It is important that you refer to your mobility equipment’s Owner Guide for the proper degree of incline/decline and chair direction before attempting ramp use. Never exceed its recommendations.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1: BASIC SYSTEM COMPONENTS BASIC SYSTEM COMPONENTS ......................................................................................................................... 5-9 SECTION 2: PLATFORMS INSTALL PLATFORMS ......................................................................................................................................... 10 INSTALL SUPPORT TUBES AND FEET AND ADJUST PLATFORM HEIGHT ......................................................
1. BASIC SYSTEM COMPONENTS Because each ramp configuration will differ from one another, your system may or may not contain all of these basic system components. Identify your system components before you begin.
KEY RAMP COMPONENTS PHDRHRLU – HANDRAIL END LOOP UPPER END OF TUBE BENDS TOWARD OTHER END OF TUBE PHDRHBPR – RAMP HANDRAIL END BRACKET (PAIR) PHDRHRLL – HANDRAIL END LOOP LOWER END OF TUBE BENDS AWAY FROM OTHER END OF TUBE PHDRRC – CONNECTOR RAMP TO RAMP INCLUDES COMPONENTS TO CONNECT RAMPS AND RAMP HANDRAILS PHDRST – RAMP SUPPORT PHDRHP – RAMP HANGER PAIR USED WHEN LEGS SUPPORT UPPER OR LOWER END OF RAMP ONLY PHDTP48 & PHDTP54 – RAMP TRANSITION PLATE PHDHREP - HANDRAIL END PLUG Page 6 of 77
PLATFORMS AND PLATFORM HANDRAIL OPTIONS PLATFORM WITH TWO-LINE RAIL (STRAIGHT CONFIGURATION)* PLATFORM WITH TWO-LINE RAIL (TURN CONFIGURATION)* PLATFORM WITH PICKETED GUARDS (STRAIGHT CONFIGURATION)* PLATFORM WITH PICKETED GUARDS (TURN CONFIGURATION)* *FEET & LEGS SHOWN FOR CONTINUITY, NOT INCLUDED KEY PLATFORM COMPONENTS PHDCPCPR – CORNER POCKET COVER PAIR PHDPPC – CONNECTOR PLATFORM TO PLATFORM Page 7 of 77
CLOSURE OPTIONS PHDCTCTL5, PHDCTCTL6, PHDCTL7 TWO-LINE RAIL CLOSURE PHDCG5, PHDCG6, PHDCG7, PHDCTCG654, PHDCG754 PICKETED GUARD CLOSURE PHDTBCTL5, PHDTBCTL6 TURN BACK CLOSURE TWO-LINE RAIL PHDTBCG5, PHDTBCG6, PHDTBCG554, PHDTBCG654 TURN BACK CLOSURE PICKETED GUARD PHDCTCTL5, PHDCTCTL6 CORNER TURN CLOSURE TWO-LINE RAIL PHDCTCG5, PHDCTCG6, PHDCTCG554, PHDCTCG654 CORNER TURN CLOSURE PICKETED GUARD Page 8 of 77
ADDITIONAL COMPONENTS FOR RAMPS & PLATFORMS PHDSLxxPH RAMP & PLATFORM SUPPORT LEGS WITH FEET (PAIR) PHDXB36 & PHD736 – CROSS BRACE XX DENOTES USABLE LENGTH (LENGTHS AVAILABLE 10” THROUGH 112") PHDXB36 USED ON 5’ & 6’ PLATFORM SIDES & RAMPS PHD736 USED ON 7’ PLATFORM SIDE Page 9 of 77
2. PLATFORMS 2.1. INSTALL PLATFORMS If your system does not include a platform, skip to ‘CONNECT RAMP SECTIONS’. Platform handrails are shown (FIGs. 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3) for clarity of how to orient platforms in various configurations. It is strongly suggested that all platforms and ramps be installed before installing handrails (see ‘HANDRAILS’ section). 2.1.1. There are three basic platform arrangements (one or more of these platform arrangements may be used in an installation).
2.2. INSTALL SUPPORT LEGS AND FEET, THEN ADJUST PLATFORM HEIGHT 2.2.1. Support legs, plugs, and feet come in pairs. Support legs will come in lengths sufficient for the heights at specific locations. 2.2.2. Loosen all set screws in the platform corner pockets. 2.2.2.1 Set screws on the outside of the platform are for the platform support legs. 2.2.2.2. Set screws on the inside of the platform are for the handrail posts. 2.2.3.
2.2.6. 2.2.7. 2.2.8. 2.2.9. 2.2.10. 2.2.11. 2.2.12. 2.2.13. Lift each corner of the platform and install a foot on each support leg, oriented so that the foot extends under the platform (FIG. 2.4). The feet can be oriented in other directions if necessary due to site conditions but may present a tripping hazard if not oriented under the platform.
FIG. 2.5 FIG. 2.
2.4. INSTALL CROSS BRACE For added stability, platforms with walking surfaces over 36″ high require bracing. The PHDXB36 CROSS BRACE is used for 5’ and 6’ platform sides and ramps. The PHD736 CROSS BRACE is used for 7’ platform sides. 2.4.1. Use four braces per platform or six braces when two platforms are connected. 2.4.2. Separate ends of brace bands until they fit around the 1-1/2” support leg. 2.4.2.1.
2.5. CREATING DECKS FROM PLATFORMS Decks can be created by combining platforms using PHDPPC (CONNECTORS – PLATFORM TO PLATFORM). Refer to SECTION 2.3, ‘CONNECT TWO PLATFORMS TOGETHER’. NEVER use two leg stubs at a platform connector; there must always be at least one leg with a foot reaching the ground in the connector. Regardless of the location of the platforms and the platform connectors in the deck, use a minimum of two legs per platform. 2.5.1.
3. RAMPS 3.1. CONNECT RAMP SECTIONS 3.1.1. Place the walking surface side of the ramp sections face down, onto cardboard or lawn so that the ramp is not scratched, dented, or damaged. 3.1.2. Butt the two sections together, end-to-end, ensuring there is no gap, then position the two center saddle brackets, included in the PHDRRC (CONNECTOR – RAMP TO RAMP), over the threaded inserts at the end of each ramp section (FIG. 3.1). 3.1.3.
3.2. INSTALL RAMPS ON PLATFORMS 3.2.1. The following will address attaching a ramp or ramp run to a platform. If the ramp needs to be angled with respect to the platform or is going to be attached to an existing porch, skip to ‘ANGLE RAMPS WITH RESPECT TO PLATFORMS, PORCHES, OR DECKS’ in this section. 3.2.2. Ramps are most commonly located toward either the left or right side of the platform. However, they can also be centered.
3.3. ATTACH SUPPORT LEGS TO RAMPS 3.3.1. Install the support leg bracket, included in the PHDRRC (CONNECTOR – RAMP TO RAMP), on the center studs of the center saddle bracket with the round hole on the upper stud and the curved slot over the lower stud (FIG. 3.5). 3.3.2. Install the provided 5/16” flat washers and 5/16”-18 nylon insert locknuts onto the studs but do not tighten fully until the bracket has been leveled (FIG. 3.5). 3.3.3.
3.3.4. Locate the appropriate PHDSLxxPH SUPPORT LEG PAIR (where “xx” denotes the leg length) for the location. Place a foot under the support leg bracket with the foot extending under the ramp, then insert a 1-1/2” support leg through the support leg bracket into the foot. Loosen the 3/8”-16 headless socket setscrews and the foot’s thumb screw if needed to fully engage the support leg in the foot (FIG. 3.7). If installing on soft soil it may be necessary to set the foot on a concrete pad. 3.3.5.
3.3.7. Use hole in the foot as a template to drill an 11/32” or 3/8” hole through each support leg (FIG 3.8). 3.3.8. Install a 5/16”-18 x 3” long hex bolt through the support leg and foot, then secure with the 5/16”-18 nylon insert locknut. FIG. 3.8 3.3.9. Adjust the ramp support legs one at a time. Building codes and ADA guidelines call for a maximum slope of 1:12 (approximately 5°) and this is the required slope for the PATHWAY HD. 3.3.9.1.
3.4. INSTALL CROSS BRACE - RAMPS If the ramp walking surface is over 36″ high, a PHDXB36 (CROSS BRACE) must be installed under the ramp (FIG. 3.10). 3.4.1. Separate ends of brace bands until they go around the support legs. 3.4.1.1. Install two bands on each leg with the part containing bolt holes extending under the ramp and aligned with the brace bands on the opposite side (FIG. 3.10). 3.4.2.
3.5. INSTALL A SINGLE RAMP OR RAMP RUN TO AN EXISTING STRUCTURE If installing a ramp run to an existing landing other than a PATHWAY HD platform, such as a porch, deck, stairs, etc., follow these steps: Installing a ramp or ramp run to an existing structure requires a PHDRST (RAMP SUPPORT TOP) and a PHDTP48 or PHDTP54 (TRANSITION PLATE 48” or 54”), depending on the ramp width.
3.7. ANGLE RAMPS WITH RESPECT TO PLATFORMS, PORCHES, OR DECKS There are situations where it is necessary to angle ramps with respect to a platform, porch, or deck. The components required are not normally included with a typical system unless it is a ramp or ramp run without a platform. If a ramp must be angled when attaching to a platform, a PHDTP48 or PHDTP54 (TRANSITION PLATE 48” or 54”) with a PHDRST (RAMP SUPPORT TOP) must be used instead of the PHDRHP (RAMP HANGER PAIR).
4. HANDRAILS 4.1. FRAMES 4.1.1. Two-line rails, picketed guards, and handrails are specific to the ramp length and provided in pairs when ordered with the ramp. The procedure for frame attachment is the same for the two-line rails and picketed guards. The procedure for installing handrails is explained in a later step. Two-line rails can also be field-converted to picketed guards if needed. 4.1.2. One frame is required on each ramp side (frames are interchangeable side-to-side). 4.1.3.
FIG. 4.1 FIG. 4.
4.2. STARTER FRAME 4.2.1. The starter ramp (identifiable by its tapered section for transition to the ground) includes starter frames which are specific to the starter ramp, lower post supports, and 6’ handrails. The procedure for attaching starter frames is the same for both two-line rails and picketed guards. 4.2.2. One starter frame is required on each side of the ramp but are interchangeable side-toside. The shorter starter frame post is the lower post. 4.2.3.
LOWER FRAME POST SUPPORT (RIGHT HAND SHOWN; LEFT HAND OPPOSITE) FIG. 4.3 FIG. 4.
4.4. RAMP HANDRAILS 4.4.1. Ramp handrails are specific to the ramp length and provided in pairs when ordered with the ramp. The procedure for attaching ramp handrails is the same for the two-line rails and picketed guards. 4.4.2. One ramp handrail is required on each side of the ramp (handrails of the same length are interchangeable side-to-side). 4.4.3. In a multiple ramp run configuration, handrail connectors (included in the PHDRRC – CONNECTOR RAMP TO RAMP) are used to join handrails together. 4.4.4.
4.4.4.4. 4.4.4.5. 4.4.4.6. 4.4.4.7. 4.4.4.8. 4.4.4.9. Slide the handrail connector into one end of the 1-1/2” diameter ramp handrail (FIG. 4.6). If handrail connector does not fit in the tube, use pliers to lightly compress handrail connector while sliding into 1-1/2” diameter top rail. Slide the next ramp handrail over the handrail connector until fully engaged and align the adjustable handrail bracket tops. Compress the handrail connector and/or use a rubber mallet as needed (FIG. 4.6).
4.5. FIELD CONVERT RAMP TWO-LINE RAIL TO A PICKETED GUARD 4.5.1. Remove the two-line rail frame from the ramp (if installed), then remove the midrail from the two-line rail frame (FIG. 4.8). 4.5.2. Install the ramp picketed guard into the two uppermost and lowermost holes in the frame using the provided 5/16”-18 x 2-1/4” hex bolts and 5/16” flat washers.
4.6. ASSEMBLE PLATFORM TWO-LINE RAILS AND PICKETED GUARDS 4.6.1. Two-line rails and picketed guards are provided in pairs when ordered with the PATHWAY HD platform. Two-line rails can also be converted to picketed guards in the field, see SECTION 4.7. 4.6.2. Regardless of style, it is strongly recommended the bolts be assembled loosely (not fully tightened) until all have been installed and the handrail has been installed in the platform. 4.6.3.
4.6.5. For platform picketed guards, pre-assemble the top rail by inserting 5/16”-18 x 1” long hex bolts through a 5/16” flat washers, the uppermost hole in the angle posts, and into the 5/16”-18 round threaded inserts in the top rail. 4.6.6.
4.7. INSTALL PLATFORM TWO-LINE RAILS AND PICKETED GUARDS 4.7.1. Platform two-line rails and picketed guards are installed in the same manner. Depending on the configuration, refer to FIGs. 4.11 and 4.12 as needed. 4.7.2. Pre-assemble the platform two-line rail or picketed guard for both sides of a straight configuration and the “first″ handrail of a turn configuration as described in SECTION 4.
4.7.6. Install 5/16”-18 x 1” long hex bolts through a 5/16” flat washer for the top rail, midrail, and angle post (do not use a flat washer on the lowermost holes). Tighten all fasteners securely (FIG. 4.12). 4.8. CONVERT TWO-LINE PLATFORM RAILS TO PICKETED GUARDS 4.8.1. To convert a two-line rail to a picketed guard in the field, leave the top rail in place but loosen the attachment bolts on both sides and remove the barrier and midrail. 4.8.2.
5. CLOSURES Closures fill the space between ramp posts and platform posts. Like the ramp and platform handrails, they are available in two-line rails and picketed guards. The closures come with components which require the ramp to be mounted to one side or the other of a platform but the ramp can be centered or mounted in any location on a platform side using the two-line rail closure (refer to SECTION 5.3).
FIG. 5.2 FIG. 5.
5.3.4. Attach the barrier attachment plate to the barrier using a 5/16”-18 x 1” long hex bolt and 5/16” flat washer. Make sure the leg of the attachment plate with the two smaller holes is captured under the upper hook and in contact with the ramp side rail. Move the ramp or platform slightly if needed and clamp the attachment plate to the side rail, if possible, before drilling (FIG. 5.4). 5.3.5.
5.3.8. Referencing FIG. 5.6, locate a closure bracket. Remove the 5/16″-18 x 2-1/4″ hex bolt and 5/16” flat washer attaching the midrail of the Frame, then reinstall the bolt and washer through the slot in the short leg of the bracket, the Frame post, and back into the threaded insert in the midrail. Orient the bracket so the long leg is on the same side as, and parallel to, the 2” x 2” angle post, then tighten lightly (enough to hold the bracket against the post but still allow it to rotate). 5.3.9.
5.3.12. Insert 5/16”-18 square threaded inserts into both ends of the midrail. Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to fully seat the threaded inserts as needed (FIG. 5.8). 5.3.13. Install 5/16″-18 x 1″ hex bolts through a 5/16” flat washers, the long leg of the closure bracket, and the 2” x 2” angle post into the 5/16”-18 square threaded inserts installed in the midrail. Use the hole approximately in the middle of the 2” x 2” angle post as shown (FIG. 5.8). 5.3.14. Tighten all fasteners securely. FIG. 5.
5.4. TWO-LINE RAIL TOP RAIL 5.4.1. Insert a 2-15/16” ring joiner in the Frame top rail and install an adjustable elbow with another 2-15/16” ring joiner as shown (FIGs. 5.9 and 5.10). 5.4.2. Assemble an adjustable elbow with threaded insert to the uppermost hole in the 2” x 2” angle post where the closure will connect using a 5/16”-18 x 1” long hex bolt and 5/16” flat washer. 5.4.2.1. For a 5’ platform side use the hole shown (FIG. 5.9). For larger platforms use the hole (FIG. 5.10.). 5.4.3.
5.4.5. Loosen the elbow assembly screws and align the round faces of the adjustable elbows, then tighten the elbow assembly screws and joiner set screws enough to hold them in position (FIG. 5.11). 5.4.6. Measure the gap between the faces of the opposing rings of the 2-15/16” ring joiners (FIG. 5.11). 5.4.7. Cut the 1-1/2″ diameter round tube to the length measured. 5.4.8. Using a metal file, smooth any sharp edges from cutting. 5.4.9.
5.5. PICKETED GUARD CLOSURE 5.5.1. Picketed Guard Closures are specific to the platform size (5’, 6’, or 7’) and require the ramp to be mounted to one side or the other of a platform. If the ramp is to be placed anywhere other than the side of a platform, custom components will be needed. Consult your sales representative for the required components. 5.5.2. Attach the Picketed Guard Closure to the 2” X 2” angle post. 5.5.2.1.
5.5.3. Locate the appropriate barrier attachment plate. If the upper end of the ramp or ramp run terminates at a platform, use the “up sloping” version of the plate. If the lower end of a ramp or ramp run starts at a platform, use the “down sloping” version. Note the orientation of the larger 3/8” diameter hole with respect to the 1-1/2” x 2” section of the plate as shown (refer back to FIG. 5.3) to identify which barrier attachment plate is needed. 5.5.4.
5.5.7. Locate a closure bracket and attach the short leg of the bracket to the Frame post with a 5/16″-18 x 2-1/4″ hex bolt, 5/16” flat washers, and 5/16″-18 nylon insert locknut oriented as shown (FIG. 5.15). Use the uppermost hole available or field drill at a higher location on the post if desired. 5.5.8.
5.5.12. Measure the gap between the 1-1/2” square x 42-5/8” long closure post and the 2” x 2” angle post (FIG. 5.16). 5.5.13. Locate the 1-1/2” diameter round tube and cut to the length measured in the previous step. Using a metal file, remove any sharp edges left from cutting. 5.5.14. Place 5/16”-18 round threaded inserts into both ends of the 1-1/2” diameter round tube. Use a rubber mallet to fully seat the threaded inserts as needed (FIG. 5.16). 5.5.15.
5.6. CLOSURE HANDRAILS Closure handrails are installed in the same manner for the Two-Line Rail and the Picketed Guard Closure. The images in this section show the installation using a Two-Line Rail closure. 5.6.1. Insert a 2-15/16” ring joiner in the Ramp Handrail and install a 1-1/2” diameter tube bend onto the other end of the joiner. Orient the joiner set screw toward the underside of the handrail (FIG. 5.17).
FIG. 5.18 FIG. 5.
5.7. TWO-LINE RAIL TURN BACK CLOSURE There are four special closures available for filling the space between two ramps in a turn back configuration: Two-Line Rail for a 5’ platform side; Picketed Guard for a 5’ platform side; TwoLine Rail for a 6’ platform side; Picketed Guard for a 6’ platform side. Turn back closures for a 7’ platform side are uncommon and are ordered as a custom closure. 5.7.1.
FIG. 5.21 5.7.3. The barrier is provided in the length needed for the platform side and should not need to be trimmed. Insert 1-1/2” square threaded inserts into both ends of the 1-1/2” x 2” barrier. Use a rubber mallet to fully seat the insert if needed (FIG. 5.21). 5.7.4. Assemble barrier attachment plates to barrier using a 5/16”-18 x 1” long hex bolts and 5/16” flat washers. Note which side of the barrier the plates are attached to and match the direction of ramp slope.
FIG. 5.22 FIG. 5.23 5.7.7. Place the assembly into the space between the ramp side rails. Make sure the legs of the barrier attachment plates with the two smaller holes are captured under the upper hooks and in contact with the ramp side rails. Move the ramps slightly if needed. Level the barrier with respect to the platform and clamp the attachment plates to the side rails if possible before drilling (FIG. 5.22). 5.7.8.
5.7.10. For the midrail, first measure the distance between the Frame posts at the turn back, then cut the 1-1/2” x 2” midrail to the measured length, less 5/8” to account for the threaded inserts and attachment plates, which will be installed in the following steps. 5.7.11. Using a metal file, smooth all sharp edges from cutting the midrail. 5.7.12. Insert 1-1/2” square threaded inserts into both ends of the 1-1/2” x 2” midrail. Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to fully seat the insert if needed (FIG.
5.7.15. Connect the Ramp Handrails at the turn back by first inserting 2-15/16” ring joiners in the open ends of the Ramp Handrails and adjustable elbows on the opposite end of the ring joiner. Then, install another 2-15/16” ring joiner into the other ends of the elbows. Orient joiner set screw toward the underside of ramp handrail (FIG. 5.26). 5.7.16. Referencing FIG. 5.
5.7.17. Measure the gap between the faces of the opposing rings of the 2-15/16” ring joiners (FIG. 5.27). 5.7.18. Cut the 1-1/2″ diameter tube to the length measured. Using a metal file, smooth any sharp edges from cutting. 5.7.19. Install the cut 1-1/2″ diameter round tube between the 2-15/16” ring joiners. Remove and reinstall the adjustable elbows, if needed (FIG. 5.27). 5.7.20. Securely tighten the adjustable elbow assembly screws and all 2-15/16” ring joiner set screws. FIG. 5.
5.8. PICKETED GUARD TURN BACK CLOSURE There are four special closures available for filling the space between two ramps in a turn back configuration: Two-Line Rail for a 5’ platform side; Picketed Guard for a 5’ platform side; TwoLine Rail for a 6’ platform side; Picketed Guard for a 6’ platform side. Turn back closures for a 7’ platform side are uncommon and are ordered as a custom closure. 5.8.1.
5.8.3. The 1-1/2” square x 42-5/8” long closure posts, barrier attachment plates, picketed guard closure spacer, and closure brackets are all installed at a guarded turn back in the same manner shown in the ‘PICKETED GUARD CLOSURE’ section (refer to 5.5.3 through 5.5.10 for assembling these components). FIG. 5.30 shows the components installed. FIG. 5.
5.8.4. For the turn back top rail, first measure the distance between the 1-1/2” square x 42-5/8” long closure posts at the turn back, then cut the 1-1/2” diameter tube to the measured length, less 1/8” to account for the threaded inserts, which will be installed in the following steps. 5.8.5. Using a metal file, smooth all sharp edges from cutting the 1-1/2” diameter tube. 5.8.6. Insert 1-1/2” round threaded inserts into both ends of the 1-1/2” diameter tube.
5.8.8. Connect the Ramp Handrails at the turn back by first inserting 2-15/16” ring joiners in the open ends of the Ramp Handrails. Install a 1-1/2” diameter tube bend on the opposite end of the joiner. Orient the joiner set screws toward the underside of the ramp handrails (FIG. 5.33). FIG. 5.
FIG. 5.34 5.8.9. Locate the special turn back handrail and the 1-1/2” diameter x 9-5/8” long tube with two welded brackets. 5.8.10. Insert 2-15/16” ring joiners into both ends. Orient the joiner set screw toward the brackets on the underside and tighten the joiner set screws securely (FIG. 5.34). 5.8.11. Loosen the tube bend assembly screws and align the long leg of the 1-1/2” diameter tube bends, then tighten the elbow assembly screws and joiner set screws enough to hold the components in position.
5.8.17. Attach the turn back handrail to both 2” X 2” turn back angle posts using 5/16”-18 x 1” long button head socket cap screws, 5/16”-18 nylon insert locknuts, and 5/16” flat washers (FIG. 5.35). 5.8.18. Tighten all ring joiner set screws fasteners securely. FIG. 5.
5.9. TWO-LINE RAIL CORNER TURN There are four special closures available for filling the space between two ramps in a corner turn configuration: Two-Line Rail for a 5’ x 5’ platform; Picketed Guard for a 5’ x 5’ platform; Two-Line Rail for a 6’ x 6’ platform; and Picketed Guard for a 6’ x 6’ platform. Corner turn closures for a 5’ x 7’ and 5’ x 6’ platforms are uncommon so must be ordered as customs for the specific arrangement. 5.9.1.
5.9.3. Connect the Frame top rails at the corner turn by inserting 2-15/16” ring joiners in the open ends of the Frame top rails and adjustable elbows on the opposite end of the ring joiners. Install 2-15/16” ring joiners into the other ends of the elbows. Orient the joiner set screw toward the underside and the legs of the adjustable elbows, toward the 2” x 2” angle post in the corner, then tighten the joiner set screws and the adjustable elbow assembly screws enough to hold in place (FIG. 5.37). 5.9.4.
5.9.7. Adjust the Top Rail Standoff to contact the underside of the elbow, then use the holes in the standoff as a template to drill 5/16” or 11/32” holes through the 2” x 2” angle posts (FIG. 5.39). 5.9.8. Attach the Top Rail Standoff to the 2” X 2” angle posts using 5/16”-18 x 1” long button head socket cap screws, 5/16”-18 nylon insert locknuts, and 5/16” flat washers (FIG. 5.39). 5.9.9.
5.9.11. Connect the Ramp Handrails at the corner turn by first trimming one leg of two 1-1/2” diameter, 90° elbows. Trim the elbow leg which will be installed on the lower Ramp Handrail such that the leg pointing toward the 2” x 2” angle post in the corner is 2-1/2” (approximately) from the angle post. Trim the elbow leg which will be installed on the upper Ramp Handrail such that the leg pointing toward the 2” x 2” angle post in the corner is 2” (approximately) from the angle post (FIG. 5.41).
FIG. 5.41 FIG. 5.
FIG. 5.
5.10. PICKETED GUARD CORNER TURN There are four special closures available for filling the space between two ramps in a corner turn configuration: Two-Line Rail for a 5’ x 5’ platform; Picketed Guard for a 5’ x 5’ platform; Two-Line Rail for a 6’ x 6’ platform; and Picketed Guard for a 6’ x 6’ platform. Corner turn closures for 5’ x 6’ and 5’ x 7’ platforms are uncommon and must be ordered as customs for the specific arrangement. 5.10.1.
6. FINAL PLATFORM/RAMP STEPS AND CHECKS 6.1. SECURE RAMPS TO PLATFORMS 6.1.1. Once positioning of all ramps and platforms, and installation of all handrails, connectors, and end loops are complete, you will need to secure ramps to platforms with Ramp End Clips (included in PRHP - RAMP HANGER PAIR). Use two Ramp End Clips at all locations where ramps meet platforms. 6.1.2. Position each Ramp End Clip with the hole pointing up and oriented as shown (FIG. 6.
6.2. ATTACH FRAME POST TO PLATFORM POST 6.2.1. At all locations where a Frame post is not connected to a rail, picketed guard or closure component, it must be connected to a platform 2” x 2” angle post using a closure bracket (FIG. 6.4). 6.2.2. If installing the closure bracket on a ramp with a two-line rail, first remove the 5/16”-18 x 2-1/4” long hex bolt and 5/16” flat washer from the midrail, then reinstall through the short leg of the bracket, the frame post, and back into the threaded insert.
6.3. INSTALL RAMP HANDRAIL END LOOPS 6.3.1. The PATHWAY HD system may include both upper and lower end loops (FIG. 6.5). Install a Handrail End Loop in all locations where the handrail does not terminate in some other manner (for example, a return to a building or guard), including both Starter Ramp handrails. Upper and lower end loops are installed in the same manner. If the end loop being installed does not fit correctly, you are most likely trying to install it on the wrong end of the ramp or ramp run.
6.3.1.3. Install a 5/16”-18 x 2-1/2” long hex bolt through a flat washer, the frame post and into the threaded insert in the lower leg (FIG. 6.8). 6.3.1.4. Tighten all fasteners securely including the joiner set screw. FIG. 6.8 6.4. INSTALL RAMP HANDRAIL END LOOPS WITH LOWER (CHILD) HANDRAIL 6.4.1. Upper and lower end loops are also used when lower (child) handrails are present (FIG. 6.9).
6.4.1.3. Mark the lower leg of the end loop at the ring of the ring joiner in the lower handrail and trim the lower leg at the marked location. Remove the end loop to achieve a square cut (FIG. 6.10). 6.4.1.4. File or sand the cut end to remove any sharp edges. 6.4.1.5. Reinstall the end loop over both the joiners in the upper and lower handrails then tighten all joiner set screws securely. FIG. 6.10 6.5. INSTALL PLATFORM LEG INSERTS 6.5.1.
6.6. INSTALL FRAME TOP RAIL END PLUGS AND RAMP CORNER PROTECTORS 6.6.1. Use 1-1/2” plastic end plugs on all open ends of the frame top rails (FIG. 6.12). Push them in by hand or use a rubber mallet. If necessary, use construction adhesive to bond the plug into the rail. 6.6.2. Install protective caps over side rail corners by placing one cap on each side at both the top and bottom of the ramp or ramp run (FIG. 6.13). If necessary, use construction adhesive to bond the cap to the ramp side rail. 6.7.
6.8. FINAL CHECKS 6.8.1. Ensure that all fasteners are in place and secure. 6.8.2. Walk on the assembled system checking for any undue movement. 6.8.3. Remove any debris and metal chips. 6.8.4. Ensure that the level and slope has not shifted during installation. 6.8.5. Check that all handrail ends are terminated with loops or returned to a guard or building. 6.8.6. Check that all Frame Top Rails are covered with end plugs and ramp side rails have corner protectors installed. 6.8.7.
7. OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT 7.1. RAMP SUPPORT 7.1.1. The PHDRST (RAMP SUPPORT) provides supplemental support at the upper or lower end of a ramp. When used, the PHDRST (RAMP SUPPORT) replaces the PHDRHBPR (RAMP HANDRAIL END BRACKET PAIR). 7.1.1.1. Attach the ramp supports with two each 5/16"-18 x 1-1/2" hex bolts and 5/16" flat washers (FIG. 7.1).
7.2. RAMP TRANSITION PLATE 7.2.1. The PHDTP48 or PHDTP54 - RAMP TRANSITION PLATE, in combination with a PHDRST RAMP SUPPORT, is commonly used to span wider gaps or accommodate angular misalignment but can be used (with the PHDRST) instead of the PHDRHP (RAMP HANGER PAIR). It can also be used when transitioning from a PATHWAY HD ramp to an existing porch or deck, or when transitioning to the ground instead of the starter ramp in some situations.
8. MAINTENANCE 8.1. PERIODIC MAINTENANCE 8.1.1. Caution should be used at all times. Proper maintenance and upkeep to the ramp system is vital. 8.1.2. Periodically check the ramp for damage and tighten any loose fasteners to ensure safety. 8.1.3. At all times, keep the system clear of dirt, leaves, and other debris that may accumulate on the surface.
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