Side Ramp 300t

Common issues

• Hinge pin and bushing wear leading to ramp play or misalignment
• Hydraulic cylinder seal leakage causing ramp drift or slow operation
• Corrosion at hinge points and structural stiffeners from seawater exposure
• Locking pin/hook mechanism wear affecting secure stowage
• Hydraulic power unit contamination or pump wear reducing operating speed
• Deck plating wear or deformation from vehicle/cargo traffic

Inspection checklist

• Inspect hinge pins, bushings, and brackets for wear, cracking, and corrosion
• Check hydraulic cylinders for external leakage and rod scoring
• Function-test the full raise/lower cycle and confirm operating time against baseline
• Verify the locking/securing mechanism engages fully and cannot be defeated under load
• Inspect structural welds and stiffeners for cracking, particularly at hinge and lifting points
• Check hydraulic oil condition and filter differential pressure
• Confirm limit switches and interlocks, if fitted, operate correctly

Service intervals

Typical wear limits

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

• Hydraulic cylinder seal kits
• Hinge pins and bushings
• Locking pin/hook assembly components
• Hydraulic hoses rated for the system pressure
• Limit switches, if fitted

Safety

• A 300t-rated ramp represents a major crushing/fall hazard; never work beneath or alongside a raised ramp without mechanical props or the locking system engaged
• The hydraulic system holds the ramp under load - a hose or seal failure can cause sudden uncontrolled movement
• Confirm securing/locking devices are engaged before the vessel sails, not just that the hydraulic system is holding pressure
• Corroded or cracked hinge structure can fail suddenly under load - treat any cracking finding as urgent

Class survey

RoRo ramps rated to carry vehicle/cargo loads are class survey items - expect NDT of hinge structure and load testing per the class society's RoRo/ramp survey requirements, with load test certificates retained onboard.

Estimated lifetime: Life is governed by structural fatigue and corrosion condition rather than running hours; relies on periodic NDT and thickness measurement rather than a fixed hours figure.