HOW TO MAKE A MANUAL PAD
I didn't think that I needed to write a page on how to make a manual pad because they are so easy to make. So easy in fact, that I could make one in the time it took me to write this page.
But I've had so many people ask me how to make them that I decided to write a page and show you how I do it.
As with all structures here on DIYskate, you can build this manual pad any size you want. But for the material list to be accurate you will need to follow the plans as listed below.
WHERE TO GET SUPPLIES
The wood and hardware can be found at most home improvement stores. Sometimes you can find the steel there as well, I know my local Home Depot carries the coping and threshold material.
If not, you can search the internet for steel fabricators or salvage steel. Personally, I've begun buying my steel from MetalsDepot.com because of their very quick shipping and good prices. I'm not affiliated with them in any way, I just like them and their product.
If this ramp is going to stay outside, it needs to be protected from the elements. A good place to start is with pressure treated lumber, paint and a tarp. You may want to invest in a composite material for the surface too. Such as Skate Lite or Ramp Armor.
Be extra careful when working with treated lumber though, the chemicals used to treat the wood contain a poisonous pesticide.
Materials needed
- 1 - 4x8, 3/4" plywood
- 4 - 2x4's, 8' long
- 3 - 2x6's, 8' long
- 1 - box of 1 5/8" screws
- 1 - box of 2 1/2" screws
- 2 - 2x2, 1/4" angle iron
Tools needed
- Tape Measure & Pencil
- Circular saw
- Drill w/ philips bit
- 1/16" drill bit
Approximate Cost: $80
Easy | | | | | Difficult
BUILD IT
Gather all your materials. Start with the 2x4's. Cut 7 pieces at 7'-10 1/2 in length. Set them aside. Below is a cut list referencing what else you will need and it's size.
FRAMING THE OUTSIDE
Take the two 2x6's that you cut down to 3'-9 and attach them to the two 8'-0 long 2x6's as shown.
You should pre-drill the screw locations near the ends with a 1/16" drill bit to keep them from splitting.
FRAMING THE INSIDE
Now place the 2x4's inside the structure you just assembled at 10 1/2" on center. Flip the whole thing on its back and lay it on a flat surface to make it easier to attach these 2x4's.
PLACING THE PLYWOOD
Flip it over so that the 2x4's are at the top again and place your sheet of 3/4" plywood on top. Attach it to the framed portion with 1 5/8" screws.
ATTACHING THE COPING
If you want to add some angle iron to the edges and make it a manual pad / small grind ledge, do so by following the instructions on the ledge plans.
FINISHED
See, I told you that this was super simple. If you want to make the manual pad a little higher, use 2x8's or 2x10's instead of the 2x6's. Any taller than that and you'll want to frame it up like the grind ledge.
