15
4111-0004 — Apr. 2021
© 2021 Systems, LLC
Note:
Poweramp dock levelers are designed with a
nominal 1/2” (12.7 mm) shimming distance to allow
for pit inconsistencies.
1. Determine height of shim stack (
M
) for each shim
location (
B
) by performing the following:
a. Measure leveler frame height distance (
A
).
b. Measure dock floor-to-pit floor distance
(
K
) at each shim location (
B
). Write down the
dimensions obtained at each location.
c. Subtract distance (
A
) from distance (
K
) to
obtain the shim height. Repeat for each shim
location.
2. Using the results obtained in step 1, create the
individual shim stacks on the pit floor at location (
B
).
Build each shim stack (
M
) with the top shim having
a minimum size of 4” x 4” (101.6 mm x 101.6 mm)
and each successive lower shim being larger so the
shims can be welded together using a fillet weld. If
using offset method, make sure load is over center of
shim stack, NOT over the edge. DO NOT use straight
method. See Figure 10.
Note:
To assist in obtaining an accurate
measurement of distance (
L
), use a string (
G
) pulled
tight across the pit opening, directly over the shim
locations.
3. Verify that each shim stack is at the correct height
by measuring distance (
L
) [top of shim stack (
M
) to
dock floor]. Distance (
L
) must equal the dock leveler
height (
A
).
4. Put a 1/4” (6.6 mm) thick shim underneath each
lip keeper (
C
).
The minimum size of the shim that contacts the
leveler frame (i.e. the top shim of each shim stack)
must be at least 4” x 4” (101.6 mm x 101.6 mm)
to support the full width of the frame rail and to
provide a shelf for a fillet weld.
Use the thickest shim stock possible for stability
and weld penetration purposes. DO NOT use
multiple layers of 1/8 in. (3.18 mm) or thinner shim
stock.
Note:
A 1/4” (6.6 mm) thick shim at location (
C
) is
used only as a starting point. The final shim stack
height will be determined after dock leveler is lowered
into the pit.
5. Using an appropriate lifting device connected to
the lifting brackets, lower dock leveler into the pit so
rear hinge frame angle (
G
) is tight against rear pit
curb angle (
E
) across full width of the leveler frame.
6. Allow rear of dock leveler to rest on the rear shims
while keeping the front of the dock leveler level with
the dock floor.
7. Add shims at front shim locations (
C
) so front
of dock leveler will stay level with dock floor when
leveler is resting fully on shims.
Note:
Hoist cylinder and maintenance prop will be
shimmed later in the install process.
Install Dock Leveler (continued)
The dock leveler is heavy. Use a lifting device and
chains with the appropriate lifting capacity and
reach.
Always use the lifting brackets provided with the
unit whenever lowering or lifting a dock leveler into
or out of a pit.
INSTALLATION
Offset w/Load Over Center
(Acceptable)
Stepped
(Acceptable)
Pyramid
(Preferred)
Shim Stacking Methods
Offset w/Load Over Edge
(Not Acceptable)
Straight
(Not Acceptable)
Figure 10
