Trailer ramp strength

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How much weight could a ramp made of expanded steel and 2x2 angle iron be expected to hold? The ramp in question is on a 16' bumper-pull trailer. I'm wanting to put a 3,000 lb tractor on it but don't want to jack up the ramp.Thanks!
Reply:How long are the ramps?    I'd say an if the ramps are longer than 4' you might have to beef them up.  My 4x4 off-road vehicle wieghs around 3600 lbs and my ramps are a bit smaller than 2" and they have worked ok w/ a slight bend in one of them. weld it like you own it
Reply:It's a single, wide ramp, about 5' long. Imagine this with dual axles and a longer deck: http://www.bigtextrailers.com/spec/35sa.html
Reply:It all depends on the number and location of the angles, thickness of angles, etc.  You may be able to better distribute the load between all of the angles by putting some thick plywood over the ramp.
Reply:Sounds like a plan. And it's a one-time use, so as long as the ramp doesn't just break in half, it should be fine.
Reply:what thickness is the 2X2?  Crossmembers?  Will your tires line up with the crossmembers?DewayneDixieland WeldingMM350PLincoln 100Some torchesOther misc. tools
Reply:2"x2" angle comes in a lot of different thicknesess ...
Reply:I did not see any cross members on the photo.  If the ramp is like that shown I would thing you will punch right through the expanded metal.  You need to distribute the tire loads out.  Most ramps like this are not designed for something that heavy to drive up....Derek
Reply:If it is a one time use. I'd remove the ramp and back the trailer in a ditch or hill and load and unload it that way.
Reply:I think Mighty Mouse has the solution but you'll have to find another suitable ditch or hill when you get where you're going.
Reply:Originally Posted by WillieBI think Mighty Mouse has the solution but you'll have to find another suitable ditch or hill when you get where you're going.
Reply:Most likely you can get away with adding a couple of chunks of 8x8 wood  wherever they will fit under, preferably halfway up. Or chunks of anything solid, to make the unsupported portion of the angle iron half as long. Oh and the plywood/osb will save the expanded, though that stuff's pretty strong welded in. I'd think 2x2x¼" would bend at full 5' long under a 3k# wheeled rig.Jim