I know you posted a long time ago, but in case you get updates, I wanted to thank you for your video. I became disabled and though I made my own ramp too, I have struggled with its weight and storage in the car next to my mobility scooter (I cannot lift or bend over much). Because of this, I rarely leave the house alone...which means I rarely leave the house period. Separating the ramp into pieces solves the weight problem, and I also love the use of the ratchet straps to attach to the car for stability. I'm looking forward to constructing this ramp soon and getting a bit more freedom. My heart goes out to you and your wife for all you have been through. Please know your thoughtfulness and support of your wife touched me deeply and your ingenuity and willingness to share what you made will also help many others who can't afford what the market has to offer.
This is a great video. No long cheap introduction, to the point, no music and an idea that is awesome. This is what a DIY RUclips video should be. I will see if i can make a ramp just like this for my mom (Parkinson's). Thanks!
thank you so much for sharing this idea. I recently got a motorized wheelchair, and couldn't afford a ramp. my husband saw your video,and said he can make it. thank you!
Still the best wheel chair ramp build on youtube. I am 76yo female and 80yo hubby is in a wheelchair. I think I can build this with the help of Home Depot sawyers.
I'm so grateful for your video! Thank you so much for taking the time in making this video. My mother has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She has a power wheel chair but I had no way of transporting it. One of our Grandchildren had an sports event coming up at a large arena out of town. She really wanted to go. I started searching online and stumbled apon your video. My husband and I made this a couples project! We had fun, had mistakes, and learned alot, as we aren't even close to being carpenters. ;) We completed the ramp just in time for our Granddaughter's event and the ramp worked perfectly. My husband was not able to go due to his work so I set up the ramp myself and maneuvered the wheelchair with no problems at all! And my Mother was tickled to death and so excited to be able to go to this event! Now future events will be a breeze and I'll have one happy Mama! Again, THANK YOU FRED❣️
Renee Veatch that is so wonderful to hear. I'm glad it worked out for you. I ended up sticking some grip tape on the plywood for better traction. Sometimes if it was drizzling or raining while loading the plywood got a bit slippery, that made a huge difference. All the best there and God Bless.
october 2016 mick roberts from lancing west sussex uk. i have just finished making the ramp tp you designs. Thank you for your excellent demo.i am 82 and made it easily.thanks to you.
Thank you so much Fred. I was put on perm disability last year and my condition is deteriorating so now will need a mobility chair and a way to transport. Since losing my income of course cost is essential in everything I do. It was so kind of you to think of others while dealing with your own families devastating diagnosis. God bless you and your wife.
Fred Dueck, you are a kind and thoughtful man for sharing your ingenious and affordable solution. For some, you solved an insurmountable problem. Without the mobility your solution gives, too many suffer too much. I had the good fortune to buy a steel carrier from the lower 48 states and trailer hitch from my local U-Haul. The freight to Alaska was $170. I wish I had seen your solution earlier. It might have saved me $400.
I’m having some health issues with my joints, but we had a family trip planned for New York City. This ruclips.net/user/postUgkxuxJwamLFanm476LC5WPeTouyyU1GXomC was perfect! It’s lightweight enough that my friend could carry it up or down stairs when we needed to. (I can walk very short distances) It was comfortable for me to sit in, I would say if you’re super tall it might be a little cramped. I’m 5’1” and the foot rests were the perfect height. This may not be the best one for long term use, you get what you pay for, but for something that fits our budget that gives me accessibility while we deal with my health this was amazing.
I can't thank you enough for this video! I've been looking everywhere for summering to help me get my wheelchair in and out of my car and my home. I believe this will work for both!! Thank you so so much!!! ❤️❤️❤️
What a nice ramp you made, wonderful! Simple and effective, and very low cost. Fred, you are a very handy person. I would never have thought of leaving the two wood sections unattached so they are more portable. Very clever folding solution. Thanks for showing us all the details like the lag bolts and the hinges used. This was such a pleasant video to watch, and you are a great teacher. Many thanks!!! Greetings from California!
Thank you. My husband is disabled and we purchased our supplies yesterday. We plan to put it together today. God bless you. We were looking at the prices of mobility lifts and you saved us a ton of money😊😊😊😊
I wanted to think you for taking the time to make this video! I have MS and because we were unable afford a lift or ramp for my scooter I don't take it. My husband takes me to the Dr. with a small wheelchair that he pushes me in. While Medicare will pay for the scooter, I guess they don't think it is necessary for you to leave your home with it. I believe I am a very lucky woman to have the husband I do and I think your wife is very lucky in her pick of husbands. For Bless you and your wife and thank you for opening another door for us.
Thank you. I have recently had to use an electric wheelchair to get around, but we didn't have a way to load it into the van. We went to Home Depot and had them cut the wood pieces to size...my husband assembled this ramp at home and with the addition of braces under the hinges of the 2X4 braces (My chair is much heaVier than your wife's) off we go. Your design has given me so much more freedom. Thank you. We could never have afforded the other commercial options. ThAnk you
Hiya Fred. I watched this ages ago and think it's fab,,,although i still havent had one made yet as no one to help me. A man has just asked about getting a hoist for his wifes chair on facebook and i told him to come and watch this. Hopefully he watches it and it helps them out. I also wrote about it on a mobility site so you may get more veiws now. I hope so Fred. Hope your wife is doing well.
That is awesome. I don't have the money to purchase a ramp, so this is a perfect solution. Because of my back and knee issues, I have some friends that will be happy to build it for me. Thank you very much for providing this video.
Hi Simon! Do you mind sharing a picture with us? I’m doing a story on the rising cost of products needed by wheelchair and disabled persons and have a section for each one on how to do it on a budget. I’d love to use photos of yours and them in the article! Please reply to this comment ASAP and then we can exchange contact information afterwards!
Just saw your video. Thank you so much! My wife is disabled and I've been searching for inexpensive ramps to load her electric wheelchair. I made a trip to Home Depot today for supplies to build this ramp over the weekend. God bless you!
Thanks my wife is a stroke survivor and you idea was great, I now no longer have to push her in a standard chair. I have been doing this for 7 years and now she can have more mobility when we go places, especially on vacations. Blessings and prayers to you and your wife.
Thank you, and God bless you for your generosity and thoughtfulness, Fred! I plan to build your clever solution for my elderly mom's foldable power chair. By the way, I'm a tech writer and trainer by trade, and your instructions and presentation are both first-class. Thank you, again, for sharing your invention. You and your wife will be in my prayers. Pax Christi.
Hi there,I'm uk based single mum diagnosed with dercums disease. I invested in an expensive lightweight folding power wheelchair but still couldn't lift in into my car without severe pain. You have made my day with this video,thank you so much,I'm diy minded so won't find this too difficult to make.Your wife is blessed with such a thoughtful husband,thank you for looking after her and her needsLove to you both
Fred, thank you for this video. My husband also has ALS and we built this ramp per your guidance so that now he can go with me everywhere ~ there will come a time when we need to purchase another vehicle, but your video pushed that into the future. We did make a modification because the weight of the power chair was opening up the hinges. We got a 12" steel sleeve at a metal shop and bolted it to the end of one of the 2X4s ~ now I can just insert the other 2X4 and the weight of the chair is on the solid metal sleeve. Thanks again for sharing
Wow. Wished I had seen this very helpful video before purchasing a very expensive ramp outfit that came with the mobility scooter. You could have bought a newish car with the money spent on the outfit. My husband will be very upset when he sees your video, as he is good with woodworking. Anyhow, thanks Fred you are a Star for making this video, which will help so many folk with what, as you say, with respect to impaired mobility, can be a very expensive business. God Bless you.
You know I am not an outgoing person, I used to stutter like crazy but some how I felt led to make a video of this and post it, I'm very happy that this is helpful I feel so blessed, I get lots of good replies, to God be the Glory!
I ran across your video looking for a way to add a ramp to my SUV for hauling landscaping rock since the rock place wanted such an incredible amount of money to deliver and place it. I got a rock dolly for $170 and will make this ramp myself and get all the rocks I want! It's nowhere near as important as what you're using it for, but I wanted you to know that you've been helpful to me. I wish you and your wife every happiness.
Incredible any person would consider themselves lucky to have you in their life!! How thoughtful - creative and smart of you the come up with suck a great impressive solution to the problem! You are a real “MAN” and I’m impressed! And that’s not something I say often!
Fred; your solution is my salvation. I thought about your method but your way of joining the parts is pure genius. I have a large mobility scooter and this will be perfect for it. Bless you.
I watched your video two years ago to keep in the back of my mind when necessity came into play. Now, an affordable/ portable/ inexpensive ramp is needed immediately at our daughter's home. The difference is a heavier application - me in my complex power wheelchair @ approx. 615 lb. Fred, you're a Saint for sharing your amazing and affordable idea. Thank You!
Have struggled through several types of devices trying to transport my mobility scooter. I stumbled across this video and within days had it made and started using it. Works wonderful and now I can go anywhere and be able to get my scooter in and out by myself. Thank You...Thank You....Thank You.
This is amazing! We need more thinkers like this gentleman to make disability accommodations more affordable for people who suddenly find themselves in need of so many adaptive devices-and all with high pricetags! Thanks very much, sir, for sharing. I have MS and it can be so difficult to keep any sense of freedom without breaking an already strained bank. thanks again!
My husband is making this for me next weekend for my mobility scooter due to MS. It looks light enough for me to do myself. Thank you so much for this idea and "how to" video. I see freedom in my future thanks to you!!
Thank you, Mr. Fred Dueck. Best wishes to your dear wife and to yourself. I really enjoyed your excellent instructional video. It was very clear to understand and it will really help me. I hope to use it with any rental car that I use to travel in the future. I can not thank you enough for the time and effort that you volunteered to this for me and everyone else. Sincerely Ray.
I hope your wife is doing ok. Thank you for this, it is really simple but brilliant and your video is so clearly presented in construction method and details and how it works. I had a car accident in 2005 which resulted in permanent nerve damage in my left arm/shoulder. I live on my own 40 km from a city. I need to bring in my lawn mower and snowblower every couple of years for maintenance and I also need to load heavy things into my Prius V. Purchased ramps are costly. I am going to build one of these. Again thanks.
You're a wonderful husband. Smart and caring. Thank you so much for sharing this information with others. Wishing only good things for you and your wife.
What a great idea, I used your idea to build a ramp for my dog . I just added carpet so she could walk up without slipping and handles and latches for easier transport and carrying , it is fantastic, thank you for sharing your wonderful concept
Thank you Fred. A very clever and inexpensive design. My wife was diagnosed with ALS in May so I know what you're going through right now. I'd never thought much about disability devices before, and am now finding everything is so expensive, and a lot is not covered by insurance. I'm not to the van and wheelchair stage yet, but know it is only a matter of time. Thank you for sharing, keep your spirits up and I will keep you and your wife in my thoughts.
The first video I see, and, it is just what is needed! Sir, thanks from all of us who on a daily basis, give care to our loved ones who require a mobility device! This is what I needed for my wife's motorized chair to load in our van! More importantly, I hope that your dear wife is healthy, and, you all can share many more anniversaries!
Hi, thanks for the kind words, we are blessed, when my wife was diagnosed with ALS the doc said she has from 2 to 3 years! She has passed the 7 year mark now, and still driving her power chair. Nathaniel, just make sure you get strong hinges for that project. I got mine welded so that where the metal is rolled around the pin can not open up under pressure.
@@hhopowerboy , that is encouraging to hear!!!! Our best to you and Mrs. Dueck! We just purchased a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan, and, we discovered that the side doors are about 2" less in access for a very heavy portable ramp we used on our older 2005 and 2000 Chrysler Town and Country vans; your solution allows rear access, which will work much better! Thanks again, sir!!!!
I'm in the process of building one right now. I have home-made drawers in the back of my SUV, so I needed to get the ramps to attach to the drawer unit itself. I decided to use French Cleats. One half of the cleats I have attached to the drawer faces, and the other half to the 2x4s. Works great. Instead of running the side straps all along the length of the three pieces of ply, I just put the straps near each joint, including the middle. So three across for each joint. Thanks for a great tutorial!
Good job, Fred. After screwing around with a small utility trailer and a VERY used hydrauic lift platform that had issues, we finally just opted for pushing my mom's wheelchair (very similar to the one in this video) right into the back of the minivan. Soooo much easier! Should have just done that to begin with. For what its worth, rather than build a ramp, we repurposed a folding aluminum ATV ramp that our neighbor kindly donated. Depending on what's available, keep that option in mind too.
Fred, you're a man after my own heart! I"m half Scottish and half Mennonite - two of the most frugal and practical peoples in the world - and this video continues the grand tradition. I was really balking at having to pay 2 or 3 thousand dollars and you've given me the inspiration!
Thank you for this post!!! I have been transporting mine (same as your wife's Jet 3 Ultra) on the back of my vehicle in rain, snow, etc. This causes significant corrosion issues as well as control system problems, which as you know are very costly to repair. This post has shown me how to make a system and transport my chair in the protected environment inside of my vehicle that is similar to yours. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Thank you for your kind comments. ALS isn't a nice journey but by God's grace we are carried through the difficulties of life. It take a solid commitment to stay true to your marriage vows.
Thank you for this video. I play in a band and often have to load very heavy rack equipment into my Ford Escape by myself. I went to Home Depot and bought two 24" x 48" pre-cut 1/2" plywood pieces, then went to the plumbing section and bought four 48" (1/2") pipes that were threaded along with two connectors to screw them together. I tried the 2x4 method with the hinges but didn't have success...and felt like the pipes would be a stronger alternative. I can now easily load my equipment with no trouble.
Good job Fred. I'm over in Ontario and live alone so this won't work for me so I had to buy an old conversion van with a Braun lift. Now I need to buy a ramp with a stoop for my front door which has to be 8 or 9 inches off the ground and hopefully have hand rails just to be safe. You're a blessing to her. God Bless you both.
I’m always impressed with the intelligence of you Canadians, thank you for sharing this wonderful innovation with us and saving us money! Ivan only walk about ten feet with this I can take my scooter everywhere and increase my quality of life.God bless you Sir.
My husband is building this ramp as he has disabilities. Thank you for show ing us how to make it. Much appreciated because it is hard for me as the wife to life his scooter is pieces every time. I'm no young chick either. So, Thanks so much for you idea!!!!!
Hallo. I want to send me my sincere thanks for showing this. I had a crosser and a ramp so heavy, me and my vife vere not able to use it. I showed your videos to my carpenter. He made it after, and now we are able to get out again, thanks to you. Love from Jørgen, Denmark
thanks for the video I followed your directions and it cost a little more than $100 but that is still cheap. it works really good except I used the slick side of the plywood on top and I have little traction problem so I applied grip tape on either side and it works great. I also cut some lightning holes in the center of each plywood panel probably removed about 2 lb from each panel making it easier to load and unload for my wife.
Thank you so much from Ontario! I’ve been looking at getting a ramp for my car as I still have some mobility and just want to be able to get my manual chair in and out of the car so I can be more independent. I read a comment about how you added grip tape so I will try to add that as we have the same type of weather. Sending love to you and your family!
Thank you for sharing your excellent, simple design. My husband and I watched the video together. Both your wife and I have been blessed with wonderful men as caregivers. God bless you.
They say that "necessity is the mother of invention". I am very sorry that you and your wife have need of this sort of thing, but I really appreciate you sharing your ingenuity with others. One never knows when they might need a thrifty and incredibly effective solution like yours. Thank you very much for your video and all the best to you both.
Well done I had a Acadia and 6' folding ramp for my wife's scooter. Wish I had saw this video sooner. We have since traded in my Acadia for a Odyssey since it's lower and easier for her to enter and drive. Great Video
the 2x4 are a few inches shorter than 8 ft. to alow the plywood to feather out to nothing at the bottom. yes the Rachel strap holds the plywood nicely in place and the 2x4 never have moved on me inspite the fact that I often use it in winter fish hard packed snow or ice, I have thought of screwing a piece of sheet metal at the end of the 2x4s to alow it to bite into the snow pack for added security, but like I said the have never moved on me.
Thank you for posting this video. I was able to replicate your design using the materials you suggested and Home Depot. Total cost $80 and about an hour's work to have a great fully functional ramp. Thank You again!
Thank you for posting this solution. I’m fortunately needing a ramp for an entire different reason. But I think you’ve solved my problem with securing it to the boot/trunk with the ratchet strap hook. Brilliant idea!
Just wanted you to know that you are my hero!! Bless you for posting this! I am a single mom with two busy kiddos, and I have been perusing wheelchair ramps for days! I have a telescope ramp, but it is too heavy to use for just me. This will work out perfectly, and you explained it so well, even I can do it!! Bless you and yours, and thank you for this generous video!!
Thank you for your idea and taking the time to make this video. The video is clear and concise. My husband now uses a mobility chair. We built your ramp and it is wonderful. It was easy to make and it is easy to use. It has helped us a great deal. Thanks again for your contribution.
My good Canadian friend my wife is Canadian I’m an American I really enjoyed watching you make the ramp for the scooter I think it was a great way to do it and save some money thank you and God bless your friend Walter
Thanks for posting this idea. I'm lucky enough to already have a hoist fitted but your ramp design is a worthy alternative. One thing that you could mention is that your ramp and chair can unloaded in about 20 seconds - whereas even the most powerful hoist will take a couple of minutes. Best wishes from UK.
Thank you Mona, the doc told us 2 to 3 years max, it's now going on 7 years and still drivi g her electric wheelchairs. The commitment of marriage isn't always easy but is so rewarding to follow through with God's plan for us. Thanks for the kind comment.
Ingenious! I'm going to build one for my wife's power chair, as soon as she gets it. Much more practical and lighter weight than big metal ramps. Thanks so much for posting it!
You are a pretty amazing guy Don. I hope you hear that often - and not just from your wife. I'm looking for a solution for my own mobility scooter and although I know it's no longer an option for me to start a project at a hardware store and then start cutting and banging and drilling and screwing around - at least I have an understanding of what needs to get done now. I wish you and your wife all the luck and strength in the world.
Thank you so much for sharing your time and talent! Your wife's disease makes one wonder all the "why" questions. At least your response to helping her is helping so many others as well! I hope you know you have made a difference.
So glad I stumbled on your video today; this is just what I've been looking for and the price is right for my tight budget. I'm already thinking how I could adapt it to my vehicle, and maybe paint the business side with play sand in the paint for traction in wet weather. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. All the best to you and your family. Thank-you for sharing.
I am so sorry about your wife's and your struggle. This is FANTASTIC!!!! Thanks Fred!! I need to transport a tiny mini horse from NJ to Tennessee in my Honda CR-V
Great job Fred, I also live in manitoba and I have given up on those cheap hitch racks from grand forks and Fargo. We have just returned from the south where I purchased one of those expensive hitch racks. Even thou I can’t afford it I’m glad I did. It was the most confident drive home we have ever had. I wish I had to room for a ramp like yours it would also be perfect. Great job!
Mr. Dueck, Thank you so much for your video, it reminds me of my Dad, he would have figured out something like this for me. A friend of mine thinks he can make one for me. I will be sharing this video with him and all my wheelchair measurements and someday I will have have a "Fred Dueck Wheelchair Ramp" of my own. Thanks again!!!👩🦼
Thank you so much, I have a tool cart as a handyman and my back hurts really bad at the point of no walking good, I'm young and I shouldn't be like this, I saw many ramps but the prices are too high for what I really need, thank you for this build, it will help me to keep my back healthy
Doug.... Thanks so much for your video. I would like to bring my husband ( who had a stroke which affect his right side mobility ) on a folding tricycle so that he can be outdoor to see more places. I have problem of loading the foldable tricycle into the trunk of my van. Your ramp can solve my problem. It is not too expensive, it is well designed and it is easy to build ( with your instruction ). Thanks so much for sharing..
Thank you, it was very interesting. I am having a need for an electric scooter finally and started doing a You Tube search and your was exceptional. My older brother died from ALS a year ago so I am familiar with your family’s trials. This was very helpful - God Bless! Paul FitzPatrick
I built the ramp. Ran the scooter up on it and the hinges began to bend. Yes the hinges are the same size as what you show. I then put a brace on each hinge from the ground up. It works GREAT now. Thanks for the idea. Makes it a lot easier to load Mom's scooter.
Our Kia is 30 inches off the ground and only has 31 inches of clearance. We made our ramps 11 feet long and put supports of 13 inch blocks under the hinges. Works well. We used screen door hinges to connect the panels.
Thank you so much. I'm a kid on my own and trying to build my parents a handicap accessible van on a shoe string budget. I bought a grand caravan with a blown motor and just got done rebuilding it. I went to look at prices of wheelchair ramps and was devastated at the prices. This is going to help a lot. Thank you. I'm going to add some textured paint to the plywood for grip incase it's raining. Other than that top notch. Again thanks
Thank you. You're so very right...if I person doesn't know what ALS is they are very lucky. Thank you for this video my outside hitch ramp didnt work due to my Roadtrek's weak hitch system. I developed Guillain Barre Syndrome 2 years ago, another very expensive little known disease. Blessings to you both❤
This design is brilliant. Thank you! I have built two ramps for my mobility scooter that were hard to use. I used 24"X 5' plywood and hinged two pieces together side by side. It worked, but anything longer than 5' was hard to store in the van with the scooter. By tomorrow, I plan to have one of these.
I know you posted a long time ago, but in case you get updates, I wanted to thank you for your video. I became disabled and though I made my own ramp too, I have struggled with its weight and storage in the car next to my mobility scooter (I cannot lift or bend over much). Because of this, I rarely leave the house alone...which means I rarely leave the house period. Separating the ramp into pieces solves the weight problem, and I also love the use of the ratchet straps to attach to the car for stability. I'm looking forward to constructing this ramp soon and getting a bit more freedom. My heart goes out to you and your wife for all you have been through. Please know your thoughtfulness and support of your wife touched me deeply and your ingenuity and willingness to share what you made will also help many others who can't afford what the market has to offer.
This looks like it works very well.I have some design ideas I would like to share with anyone who is interested in loading systems for scooters.
Mr Frog. I would love to see what you have to show if you don't mind sharing. email me at freddydueck@gmail.com
me too, please share! gabie68413@aol.com
could you send me your email address?
Skitty Cat 💜 I Love this nice conversation,
This is a great video. No long cheap introduction, to the point, no music and an idea that is awesome. This is what a DIY RUclips video should be. I will see if i can make a ramp just like this for my mom (Parkinson's). Thanks!
Thanks for the video. Built same for $60. Home Depot made all the cuts, took me about 2 hours to bolt up and test. Good to go.
thank you so much for sharing this idea. I recently got a motorized wheelchair, and couldn't afford a ramp. my husband saw your video,and said he can make it. thank you!
Still the best wheel chair ramp build on youtube. I am 76yo female and 80yo hubby is in a wheelchair. I think I can build this with the help of Home Depot sawyers.
I'm so grateful for your video! Thank you so much for taking the time in making this video. My mother has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She has a power wheel chair but I had no way of transporting it. One of our Grandchildren had an sports event coming up at a large arena out of town. She really wanted to go. I started searching online and stumbled apon your video. My husband and I made this a couples project! We had fun, had mistakes, and learned alot, as we aren't even close to being carpenters. ;)
We completed the ramp just in time for our Granddaughter's event and the ramp worked perfectly. My husband was not able to go due to his work so I set up the ramp myself and maneuvered the wheelchair with no problems at all! And my Mother was tickled to death and so excited to be able to go to this event!
Now future events will be a breeze and I'll have one happy Mama!
Again,
THANK YOU FRED❣️
Renee Veatch that is so wonderful to hear. I'm glad it worked out for you. I ended up sticking some grip tape on the plywood for better traction. Sometimes if it was drizzling or raining while loading the plywood got a bit slippery, that made a huge difference. All the best there and God Bless.
Fred Dueck Yes, that's exactly what my husband did for better traction! It works great! Blessings to your family and Merry Christmas!
october 2016 mick roberts from lancing west sussex uk. i have just finished making the ramp tp you designs. Thank you for your excellent demo.i am 82 and made it easily.thanks to you.
Thank you so much Fred. I was put on perm disability last year and my condition is deteriorating so now will need a mobility chair and a way to transport. Since losing my income of course cost is essential in everything I do. It was so kind of you to think of others while dealing with your own families devastating diagnosis. God bless you and your wife.
Fred Dueck, you are a kind and thoughtful man for sharing your ingenious and affordable solution. For some, you solved an insurmountable problem. Without the mobility your solution gives, too many suffer too much. I had the good fortune to buy a steel carrier from the lower 48 states and trailer hitch from my local U-Haul. The freight to Alaska was $170. I wish I had seen your solution earlier. It might have saved me $400.
I’m having some health issues with my joints, but we had a family trip planned for New York City. This ruclips.net/user/postUgkxuxJwamLFanm476LC5WPeTouyyU1GXomC was perfect! It’s lightweight enough that my friend could carry it up or down stairs when we needed to. (I can walk very short distances) It was comfortable for me to sit in, I would say if you’re super tall it might be a little cramped. I’m 5’1” and the foot rests were the perfect height. This may not be the best one for long term use, you get what you pay for, but for something that fits our budget that gives me accessibility while we deal with my health this was amazing.
I can't thank you enough for this video! I've been looking everywhere for summering to help me get my wheelchair in and out of my car and my home. I believe this will work for both!! Thank you so so much!!! ❤️❤️❤️
What a good practical idea! I am moved by your resourcefulness and resiliency in coping with ALS...You are a gift to this world.
What a nice ramp you made, wonderful! Simple and effective, and very low cost.
Fred, you are a very handy person. I would never have thought of leaving the two wood sections unattached so they are more portable. Very clever folding solution.
Thanks for showing us all the details like the lag bolts and the hinges used. This was such a pleasant video to watch, and you are a great teacher. Many thanks!!! Greetings from California!
Thank you. My husband is disabled and we purchased our supplies yesterday. We plan to put it together today. God bless you. We were looking at the prices of mobility lifts and you saved us a ton of money😊😊😊😊
I wanted to think you for taking the time to make this video! I have MS and because we were unable afford a lift or ramp for my scooter I don't take it. My husband takes me to the Dr. with a small wheelchair that he pushes me in. While Medicare will pay for the scooter, I guess they don't think it is necessary for you to leave your home with it. I believe I am a very lucky woman to have the husband I do and I think your wife is very lucky in her pick of husbands. For Bless you and your wife and thank you for opening another door for us.
Just now seeing your video after spending $2500 on a USED lift for our van. This is an awesome design. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you. I have recently had to use an electric wheelchair to get around, but we didn't have a way to load it into the van. We went to Home Depot and had them cut the wood pieces to size...my husband assembled this ramp at home and with the addition of braces under the hinges of the 2X4 braces (My chair is much heaVier than your wife's) off we go. Your design has given me so much more freedom. Thank you. We could never have afforded the other commercial options. ThAnk you
Alison Windham I'm glad it helped you out. can you email me some pictures? freddydueck@gmail.com
Fred Dueck great video sir, your a great husband thanks for sharing..
Hiya Fred. I watched this ages ago and think it's fab,,,although i still havent had one made yet as no one to help me.
A man has just asked about getting a hoist for his wifes chair on facebook and i told him to come and watch this. Hopefully he watches it and it helps them out.
I also wrote about it on a mobility site so you may get more veiws now. I hope so Fred. Hope your wife is doing well.
That is awesome. I don't have the money to purchase a ramp, so this is a perfect solution. Because of my back and knee issues, I have some friends that will be happy to build it for me. Thank you very much for providing this video.
I made one using your design. It worked great. Thanks, Fred.
Hi Simon!
Do you mind sharing a picture with us?
I’m doing a story on the rising cost of products needed by wheelchair and disabled persons and have a section for each one on how to do it on a budget. I’d love to use photos of yours and them in the article!
Please reply to this comment ASAP and then we can exchange contact information afterwards!
@@slyfox8953 Sorry, the ramp and wheelchair are long gone.
Just saw your video. Thank you so much! My wife is disabled and I've been searching for inexpensive ramps to load her electric wheelchair. I made a trip to Home Depot today for supplies to build this ramp over the weekend. God bless you!
This was the best information for a ramp. You explain it so well too! Very detailed! Thank You so much for sharing!!
Suzy Q you are very welcome hope it helps you real well.
Fred Dueck It will help for sure! I have been looking for a better cheaper way for a while. I now see my freedom expanding. ☺
Thanks my wife is a stroke survivor and you idea was great, I now no longer have to push her in a standard chair. I have been doing this for 7 years and now she can have more mobility when we go places, especially on vacations. Blessings and prayers to you and your wife.
Thanks for sharing this. I just built one for Mom yesterday. Four years later, and it only cost $83.00
Thank you sir for that awesome video. going to surprise my parents with this ramp for my handicapped sister! Thanks Fred!
Thank you, and God bless you for your generosity and thoughtfulness, Fred! I plan to build your clever solution for my elderly mom's foldable power chair.
By the way, I'm a tech writer and trainer by trade, and your instructions and presentation are both first-class.
Thank you, again, for sharing your invention. You and your wife will be in my prayers. Pax Christi.
Laurie W--- Thanks for the kind words
Hi there,I'm uk based single mum diagnosed with dercums disease. I invested in an expensive lightweight folding power wheelchair but still couldn't lift in into my car without severe pain. You have made my day with this video,thank you so much,I'm diy minded so won't find this too difficult to make.Your wife is blessed with such a thoughtful husband,thank you for looking after her and her needsLove to you both
Teena Lancashire Thank you I'm delighted to know it helped you.
Fred, thank you for this video. My husband also has ALS and we built this ramp per your guidance so that now he can go with me everywhere ~ there will come a time when we need to purchase another vehicle, but your video pushed that into the future. We did make a modification because the weight of the power chair was opening up the hinges. We got a 12" steel sleeve at a metal shop and bolted it to the end of one of the 2X4s ~ now I can just insert the other 2X4 and the weight of the chair is on the solid metal sleeve. Thanks again for sharing
Thanks, Later on I had to weld my hinges so the knuckles did not bend open
Wow. Wished I had seen this very helpful video before purchasing a very expensive ramp outfit that came with the mobility scooter. You could have bought a newish car with the money spent on the outfit. My husband will be very upset when he sees your video, as he is good with woodworking. Anyhow, thanks Fred you are a Star for making this video, which will help so many folk with what, as you say, with respect to impaired mobility, can be a very expensive business. God Bless you.
You know I am not an outgoing person, I used to stutter like crazy but some how I felt led to make a video of this and post it, I'm very happy that this is helpful I feel so blessed, I get lots of good replies, to God be the Glory!
I ran across your video looking for a way to add a ramp to my SUV for hauling landscaping rock since the rock place wanted such an incredible amount of money to deliver and place it. I got a rock dolly for $170 and will make this ramp myself and get all the rocks I want! It's nowhere near as important as what you're using it for, but I wanted you to know that you've been helpful to me. I wish you and your wife every happiness.
Incredible any person would consider themselves lucky to have you in their life!! How thoughtful - creative and smart of you the come up with suck a great impressive solution to the problem! You are a real “MAN” and I’m impressed! And that’s not something I say often!
Thank you so much for those kind and encouraging words
11
the plywood pieces are 32" long (8' cut in thirds) the 2x4s are shorter so the plywood hits the ground at the bottom for a smooth approach.
Hey Fred can you please tell me what kind of hinges you used for the plywood and two-by-fours
Fred; your solution is my salvation. I thought about your method but your way of joining the parts is pure genius. I have a large mobility scooter and this will be perfect for it. Bless you.
ThumpDr I'm glad it helps. Thank you for your kind words God bless you too.
I watched your video two years ago to keep in the back of my mind when necessity came into play. Now, an affordable/ portable/ inexpensive ramp is needed immediately at our daughter's home. The difference is a heavier application - me in my complex power wheelchair @ approx. 615 lb. Fred, you're a Saint for sharing your amazing and affordable idea. Thank You!
Have struggled through several types of devices trying to transport my mobility scooter. I stumbled across this video and within days had it made and started using it. Works wonderful and now I can go anywhere and be able to get my scooter in and out by myself. Thank You...Thank You....Thank You.
Linda Hiner I'm glad it was helpful.
Thank you 🙏🏼 for putting this ramp out there I’ve been feeling beat up 🤕 in my life of disabilitie & for you to post help is heart warming
This is amazing! We need more thinkers like this gentleman to make disability accommodations more affordable for people who suddenly find themselves in need of so many adaptive devices-and all with high pricetags! Thanks very much, sir, for sharing. I have MS and it can be so difficult to keep any sense of freedom without breaking an already strained bank. thanks again!
Cheryl Law my pleasure thank you for the kind words
My husband is making this for me next weekend for my mobility scooter due to MS. It looks light enough for me to do myself. Thank you so much for this idea and "how to" video. I see freedom in my future thanks to you!!
I realize this is an older video now, but I wanted to thank you for posting it. It has been informative and is truly appreciated. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Fred Dueck. Best wishes to your dear wife and to yourself. I really enjoyed your excellent instructional video. It was very clear to understand and it will really help me. I hope to use it with any rental car that I use to travel in the future. I can not thank you enough for the time and effort that you volunteered to this for me and everyone else. Sincerely Ray.
Many thanks from the UK, Fred. Very helpful for my personal circumstances. I really appreciate you taking the time to make this.
Rhys Williams
I hope your wife is doing ok. Thank you for this, it is really simple but brilliant and your video is so clearly presented in construction method and details and how it works. I had a car accident in 2005 which resulted in permanent nerve damage in my left arm/shoulder. I live on my own 40 km from a city. I need to bring in my lawn mower and snowblower every couple of years for maintenance and I also need to load heavy things into my Prius V. Purchased ramps are costly. I am going to build one of these. Again thanks.
You're a wonderful husband. Smart and caring. Thank you so much for sharing this information with others. Wishing only good things for you and your wife.
Escape From NY thanks for the kind words, we are truly blessed.
What a great idea, I used your idea to build a ramp for my dog . I just added carpet so she could walk up without slipping and handles and latches for easier transport and carrying , it is fantastic, thank you for sharing your wonderful concept
Thank you Fred. A very clever and inexpensive design. My wife was diagnosed with ALS in May so I know what you're going through right now. I'd never thought much about disability devices before, and am now finding everything is so expensive, and a lot is not covered by insurance. I'm not to the van and wheelchair stage yet, but know it is only a matter of time. Thank you for sharing, keep your spirits up and I will keep you and your wife in my thoughts.
The first video I see, and, it is just what is needed! Sir, thanks from all of us who on a daily basis, give care to our loved ones who require a mobility device! This is what I needed for my wife's motorized chair to load in our van!
More importantly, I hope that your dear wife is healthy, and, you all can share many more anniversaries!
Hi, thanks for the kind words, we are blessed, when my wife was diagnosed with ALS the doc said she has from 2 to 3 years! She has passed the 7 year mark now, and still driving her power chair.
Nathaniel, just make sure you get strong hinges for that project. I got mine welded so that where the metal is rolled around the pin can not open up under pressure.
@@hhopowerboy , that is encouraging to hear!!!! Our best to you and Mrs. Dueck! We just purchased a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan, and, we discovered that the side doors are about 2" less in access for a very heavy portable ramp we used on our older 2005 and 2000 Chrysler Town and Country vans; your solution allows rear access, which will work much better! Thanks again, sir!!!!
Thank you for sharing so many years ago. Prayers for you as you dealt with your wife’s disease.
I'm in the process of building one right now. I have home-made drawers in the back of my SUV, so I needed to get the ramps to attach to the drawer unit itself. I decided to use French Cleats. One half of the cleats I have attached to the drawer faces, and the other half to the 2x4s. Works great. Instead of running the side straps all along the length of the three pieces of ply, I just put the straps near each joint, including the middle. So three across for each joint. Thanks for a great tutorial!
Good job, Fred. After screwing around with a small utility trailer and a VERY used hydrauic lift platform that had issues, we finally just opted for pushing my mom's wheelchair (very similar to the one in this video) right into the back of the minivan. Soooo much easier! Should have just done that to begin with. For what its worth, rather than build a ramp, we repurposed a folding aluminum ATV ramp that our neighbor kindly donated. Depending on what's available, keep that option in mind too.
Fred, you're a man after my own heart! I"m half Scottish and half Mennonite - two of the most frugal and practical peoples in the world - and this video continues the grand tradition. I was really balking at having to pay 2 or 3 thousand dollars and you've given me the inspiration!
Genius!!!! I cant believe I found this! Thank you! I am going to start making mine today!!! Thank you so much for doing leaving this up!!
Thank you for this post!!! I have been transporting mine (same as your wife's Jet 3 Ultra) on the back of my vehicle in rain, snow, etc. This causes significant corrosion issues as well as control system problems, which as you know are very costly to repair. This post has shown me how to make a system and transport my chair in the protected environment inside of my vehicle that is similar to yours. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Awesome! Thanks for sharing. Bless you for your caring for your Mrs. with ALS. I did that for 7 years for mine.
Thank you for your kind comments. ALS isn't a nice journey but by God's grace we are carried through the difficulties of life. It take a solid commitment to stay true to your marriage vows.
Thank you for this video.
I play in a band and often have to load very heavy rack equipment into my Ford Escape by myself. I went to Home Depot and bought two 24" x 48" pre-cut 1/2" plywood pieces, then went to the plumbing section and bought four 48" (1/2") pipes that were threaded along with two connectors to screw them together.
I tried the 2x4 method with the hinges but didn't have success...and felt like the pipes would be a stronger alternative.
I can now easily load my equipment with no trouble.
Good job Fred. I'm over in Ontario and live alone so this won't work for me so I had to buy an old conversion van with a Braun lift. Now I need to buy a ramp with a stoop for my front door which has to be 8 or 9 inches off the ground and hopefully have hand rails just to be safe. You're a blessing to her. God Bless you both.
Thanks, you make it look so easy to use and it sounds very easy to build. Great idea, love the extras like securing it to the scooter for transport.
what a great man. Stands by his wife and is doing everything he can to make her life easier.
Thank you, Fred! I will be making this today for my husband! Bless you and your wife.
I’m always impressed with the intelligence of you Canadians, thank you for sharing this wonderful innovation with us and saving us money! Ivan only walk about ten feet with this I can take my scooter everywhere and increase my quality of life.God bless you Sir.
My husband is building this ramp as he has disabilities. Thank you for show ing us how to make it. Much appreciated because it is hard for me as the wife to life his scooter is pieces every time. I'm no young chick either. So, Thanks so much for you idea!!!!!
Hallo. I want to send me my sincere thanks for showing this. I had a crosser and a ramp so heavy, me and my vife vere not able to use it. I showed your videos to my carpenter. He made it after, and now we are able to get out again, thanks to you.
Love from Jørgen,
Denmark
thanks for the video I followed your directions and it cost a little more than $100 but that is still cheap. it works really good except I used the slick side of the plywood on top and I have little traction problem so I applied grip tape on either side and it works great. I also cut some lightning holes in the center of each plywood panel probably removed about 2 lb from each panel making it easier to load and unload for my wife.
Lightening holes, smart!
Very clever, where there's a will there's a way. All of the components are readily available and easy to assemble, Thanks!
Thank you so much from Ontario! I’ve been looking at getting a ramp for my car as I still have some mobility and just want to be able to get my manual chair in and out of the car so I can be more independent. I read a comment about how you added grip tape so I will try to add that as we have the same type of weather. Sending love to you and your family!
Thank you for sharing your excellent, simple design. My husband and I watched the video together. Both your wife and I have been blessed with wonderful men as caregivers. God bless you.
Cynthia Wildberger Thanks for commenting, Thank God there is still people out there committed to their marriage partner.
Amen to that!
They say that "necessity is the mother of invention". I am very sorry that you and your wife have need of this sort of thing, but I really appreciate you sharing your ingenuity with others. One never knows when they might need a thrifty and incredibly effective solution like yours. Thank you very much for your video and all the best to you both.
Well done I had a Acadia and 6' folding ramp for my wife's scooter. Wish I had saw this video sooner. We have since traded in my Acadia for a Odyssey since it's lower and easier for her to enter and drive. Great Video
the 2x4 are a few inches shorter than 8 ft. to alow the plywood to feather out to nothing at the bottom. yes the Rachel strap holds the plywood nicely in place and the 2x4 never have moved on me inspite the fact that I often use it in winter fish hard packed snow or ice, I have thought of screwing a piece of sheet metal at the end of the 2x4s to alow it to bite into the snow pack for added security, but like I said the have never moved on me.
Fred Dueck q
Thank you so much
Thank you for posting this video. I was able to replicate your design using the materials you suggested and Home Depot. Total cost $80 and about an hour's work to have a great fully functional ramp. Thank You again!
So how do you apply the ratchet straps. Just screw it on? Do you tighten it?
@@furbabymom3159 He screwed them on all the way down the length of the plywood. Hope it works good for you.
Thank you for posting this solution. I’m fortunately needing a ramp for an entire different reason. But I think you’ve solved my problem with securing it to the boot/trunk with the ratchet strap hook. Brilliant idea!
YOU R SMART, KIND & BLESSED!!! THANK YOU FOR THIS MONEY SAVING SOLUTION .
Just wanted you to know that you are my hero!! Bless you for posting this! I am a single mom with two busy kiddos, and I have been perusing wheelchair ramps for days! I have a telescope ramp, but it is too heavy to use for just me. This will work out perfectly, and you explained it so well, even I can do it!! Bless you and yours, and thank you for this generous video!!
Thank you. I am glad it is helpful. If you need any additional info feel free to ask.
Thank you for your idea and taking the time to make this video. The video is clear and concise. My husband now uses a mobility chair. We built your ramp and it is wonderful. It was easy to make and it is easy to use. It has helped us a great deal. Thanks again for your contribution.
Good job of showing step by step how its done. An 88 year old thanks you.
My good Canadian friend my wife is Canadian I’m an American I really enjoyed watching you make the ramp for the scooter I think it was a great way to do it and save some money thank you and God bless your friend Walter
Thanks for posting this idea. I'm lucky enough to already have a hoist fitted but your ramp design is a worthy alternative. One thing that you could mention is that your ramp and chair can unloaded in about 20 seconds - whereas even the most powerful hoist will take a couple of minutes. Best wishes from UK.
Your wife is blessed to have you! Thank you for being a great example of for vows that include “in sickness and in health!!!!!! You are awesome!!🙏🏽
Thank you Mona, the doc told us 2 to 3 years max, it's now going on 7 years and still drivi g her electric wheelchairs. The commitment of marriage isn't always easy but is so rewarding to follow through with God's plan for us. Thanks for the kind comment.
Ingenious! I'm going to build one for my wife's power chair, as soon as she gets it. Much more practical and lighter weight than big metal ramps. Thanks so much for posting it!
You are a pretty amazing guy Don. I hope you hear that often - and not just from your wife.
I'm looking for a solution for my own mobility scooter and although I know it's no longer an option for me to start a project at a hardware store and then start cutting and banging and drilling and screwing around - at least I have an understanding of what needs to get done now.
I wish you and your wife all the luck and strength in the world.
You did a great job thank you for showing us, so sorry about your wife's ALS. God bless you and your family.
Thanks for the positive comments
Thank you so much for sharing your time and talent! Your wife's disease makes one wonder all the "why" questions. At least your response to helping her is helping so many others as well! I hope you know you have made a difference.
Beverly Moore thank you for the kind words, God bless
So glad I stumbled on your video today; this is just what I've been looking for and the price is right for my tight budget. I'm already thinking how I could adapt it to my vehicle, and maybe paint the business side with play sand in the paint for traction in wet weather. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. All the best to you and your family. Thank-you for sharing.
Same
Thanks Don. I'm blessed and want others to be blessed.
I am so sorry about your wife's and your struggle. This is FANTASTIC!!!! Thanks Fred!! I need to transport a tiny mini horse from NJ to Tennessee in my Honda CR-V
Great job Fred, I also live in manitoba and I have given up on those cheap hitch racks from grand forks and Fargo. We have just returned from the south where I purchased one of those expensive hitch racks. Even thou I can’t afford it I’m glad I did. It was the most confident drive home we have ever had.
I wish I had to room for a ramp like yours it would also be perfect. Great job!
Mr. Dueck, Thank you so much for your video, it reminds me of my Dad, he would have figured out something like this for me. A friend of mine thinks he can make one for me. I will be sharing this video with him and all my wheelchair measurements and someday I will have have a "Fred Dueck Wheelchair Ramp" of my own. Thanks again!!!👩🦼
Thank you so much, I have a tool cart as a handyman and my back hurts really bad at the point of no walking good, I'm young and I shouldn't be like this, I saw many ramps but the prices are too high for what I really need, thank you for this build, it will help me to keep my back healthy
Fantastic cost saving idea and extremely ingenious idea. Thanks for sharing your plans as I intend on making one for use with my mobility scooter.
Doug.... Thanks so much for your video. I would like to bring my husband ( who had a stroke which affect his right side mobility ) on a folding tricycle so that he can be outdoor to see more places. I have problem of loading the foldable tricycle into the trunk of my van. Your ramp can solve my problem. It is not too expensive, it is well designed and it is easy to build ( with your instruction ). Thanks so much for sharing..
Thank you, it was very interesting. I am having a need for an electric scooter finally and started doing a You Tube search and your was exceptional. My older brother died from ALS a year ago so I am familiar with your family’s trials. This was very helpful - God Bless! Paul FitzPatrick
I built the ramp. Ran the scooter up on it and the hinges began to bend. Yes the hinges are the same size as what you show. I then put a brace on each hinge from the ground up. It works GREAT now. Thanks for the idea. Makes it a lot easier to load Mom's scooter.
The chair in the video looks to be pretty light weight.
Thank you for sharing this with the rest of us. Wishing you and your wife the best from Connecticut
You don’t know how much this will help me and many others! Thank you so much!
Im sure your wife appreciates everything you do for her.
This ramp is wonderful. I hope you and your wife have a chance to go lots of places together.🌅
thank you for the kind words, yes we have traveled a fair bit and fond it even handy to go into friends houses with a couple steps.
That's great to know!
Our Kia is 30 inches off the ground and only has 31 inches of clearance. We made our ramps 11 feet long and put supports of 13 inch blocks under the hinges. Works well. We used screen door hinges to connect the panels.
Thank you so much. I'm a kid on my own and trying to build my parents a handicap accessible van on a shoe string budget. I bought a grand caravan with a blown motor and just got done rebuilding it. I went to look at prices of wheelchair ramps and was devastated at the prices. This is going to help a lot. Thank you. I'm going to add some textured paint to the plywood for grip incase it's raining. Other than that top notch. Again thanks
God bless you young man, I'm proud of you looking after your parents like that. Best wishes.
I didn't expect to actually like this video or think I'd take anything from it. You sir are helpful!! Thank you. God bless you
Thank you. You're so very right...if I person doesn't know what ALS is they are very lucky. Thank you for this video my outside hitch ramp didnt work due to my Roadtrek's weak hitch system. I developed Guillain Barre Syndrome 2 years ago, another very expensive little known disease. Blessings to you both❤
This design is brilliant. Thank you! I have built two ramps for my mobility scooter that were hard to use. I used 24"X 5' plywood and hinged two pieces together side by side. It worked, but anything longer than 5' was hard to store in the van with the scooter. By tomorrow, I plan to have one of these.
great job Fred I like the way you have build the ramp really cheap to save some money and the way it was explained it