Our reasoning and expectations behind this.
We have chosen the parallel-reinforced sand ladders primarily to lessen the chances of us bending them (which would cause us storage problems). The reason we opted for the “parallel-reinforced” version as opposed to the “standard reinforced” type, was because they have a lower height profile and seem to stack on top of each other slightly better, taking up less space when stored, a big advantage given where we intend to store them. They also have one side that is still relatively flat which may prove useful, (an improvised table maybe).
The parallel-reinforced version’s ability to nest together may also prove to be an advantage if used in tandem for bridging, as they would seem less prone to movement.
We are also considering the possibility that if (removable) attachment points were fabricated (could be just rope), they may also work as “dead man snow anchors” or large ground anchor plates.
We opted for the 1.5M over the 1.75m type as the latter would have been too long to use between the wheels under the van. if our 1.5m sand-ladders do turn out to be too long we do have the option to cut a bit off.
Sand-ladders x 2, (@ 1.5M x 440mm, 4mm parallel reinforced aluminium).
Second pair of aluminium sand-ladders, (under consideration, size & type to be decided ).
For the different Aluminum sand ladder options, (see this link).
The ones we opted for.
Aluminum sand-ladders, 1.5M x 440mm, 4mm parallel reinforced 9,5 kg (x2 ).
Allowing 3 tons for the weight of the van (somewhat overloaded) puts the load on each wheel at approximately 3/4 tons. The sand ladders we have are rated for up to 6-8 tons; we have assumed this rating is for the total weight of the vehicle spread over 4 wheels, so each one should be capable of supporting at least a ¼ of the 6-8 ton (1.5 -2 tons) without damage. This is twice the expected weight per wheel of our van so it should give us a reasonable safety margin.
Second pair of aluminium sand ladders.
Still under consideration. Size & type are to be decided, no decision yet.
More info and photos when we get to use them in anger (or Play)
In-use reviews.
Pros.
The aluminium sand ladders are lighter than the steel versions.
The aluminium sand ladders are stronger, compared to glass-reinforced & plastic.
Available in longer lengths than the glass reinforced & plastic.
The reinforced sand ladders are stronger, compared to single aluminium sand ladders.
The parallel-reinforced” type has a lower height profile compared to standard reinforced.
The parallel-reinforced type seems to stack on top of each other slightly better.
The parallel-reinforced has one side that is still relatively flat, (improvised table maybe).
The parallel-reinforced sand ladders seem less prone to movement if used in tandem.
Cons.
The parallel-reinforced” type are heavier than single sand ladders (but stronger).
Heavier than plastic sand ladders, (although longer).
Our conclusions.
More when used in earnest.
Other related or affected items.
Under-slung sand-ladder, (planned addition).
4 bar Roof Rack attachments.