eBay VAX-11/780 has a few minutes left...

Large wheeled cabinets like these certainly can be loaded an unloaded on a ramp. The key is to use a pair of comealongs* (the good kind that can reverse the ratchet) and have patience. And remember to inspect _everything_ before making a move. With a nylon strap (and optionally some cardboard corners - and yes, use a good heavy strap), attach the running-out end of the first comealong to the strap, near the base of the cabinet. Then, attach the second comealong to the first. This is done simply because most of these only run out six or ten feet, and the last thing one wants is to be halfway up or down the ramp and the comealong all wound up or out. The second comealong then can be attached to a hard point inside, like a hook or eye up front, or another heavy strap forming a triangle to hardpoints on the side, near the deck. Then ratchet away, checking progress every few clicks. At critical points, a progress check after every click may be needed. I have done this many times with equipment heavier than this VAX-11/780, with no problems. I have done it alone, but having help is recommended. The thing to watch is the width of the ramp, which should have at least a few inches of clearance to either side (and more is better, obviously). Another thing to watch is if the side rails of the ramp will get in the way with the cabinet, like the leveling feet, especially at the ends of the ramp. One can also use a comealong arrangement similar to what I described above for tilted ramps. On my Facebook page there is a picture of a very heavy old IBM tape unit on a very tilted worn-out ramp - and it came down out of the truck in 15 minutes or so. *or a chain hoist. -- Will