Adding Spreader Bars to Existing Aiders

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joedag90

climber
Topic Author's Original Post - May 5, 2012 - 10:50am PT
So here is a quick little project that I undertook this morning with some extra PVC pipe that I had laying around. I have a set of Metolius 8 step aiders that do not have spreader bars installed on them. I'm just starting to get into aid climbing, and I wanted to correct a couple of bothersome things. The first being that I have a lot of trouble trying to get my feet into the higher steps on the aider as a result of the aider compressing. This fix should correct that.

But anyway, here are the REALLY simple instructions to make a set of spreader bars for a spreader bar-less aid ladder. HOWEVER, you will loose the use of the top step with this modification. This may not bother some, however others may be irritated. In the future, I will try to stitch on a spreader bar holder above the top step to solve this problem.

Required Materials:
1-2ft of PVC Pipe (Diameter Dependent on width of step);
Hacksaw;
Wedge;
Duct Tape


Directions:

1. Acquire PVC Pipe (about a foot or two)
+ Make sure you have the proper diameter to completely fit over
the width of the step.

2. Measure and Cut PVC pipe to length
+ Measure and Cut so that PVC pipe is slightly shorter than the
length that you want. This allows the pipe to fit comfortably
and not over-extended.

3. Place pipe in Vise and Cut a channel down one side
+ This allows for the pipe to slip onto the step.

4. Use a Wedge (Flat Head Screwdriver, etc...) to open up channel

5. While wedging open the channel, try to work the step into the channel

6. Working your way down the channel, push the step fully into the channel
+ The step may not fully fit length wise. If this happens, try
to at least push it in until its flush with the step.

7. Leave it as is, rotate it, or tape over it to prevent the step from ever popping (Although I don't think it will)


Make sure to sand sharp edges down (or melt). However, don't melt your aiders! Also, you can then rotate the pipe channel downwards or wherever you want.










Good Climbing!

-- Joe Dag
Sierra Ledge Rat

Social climber
Retired in Appalachia
May 5, 2012 - 11:15am PT
BITD we could get rigid aluminum etier steps, I just used one of those for my top rung.

But you can't add a rung to existing aiders.

HiClimb SB

Sport climber
GOLETA
Oct 4, 2015 - 03:13pm PT
to joedag90, or anyone else that tried this: so...now a few years later...how did your aiders work with the PVC added? i'm trying to decide between the Yates beefy ladder, or the lighter Metolius with an added step. (but, i'm new and don't know anything.) i think you mentioned that you 'lose' the top step that holds the PVC and i was wondering...is that because your foot rolls off a bit? i'm very crafty and it seems i could stabilize that PVC if that was the problem. overall, do you think adding PVC to the lighter Metolius gives you the best of both worlds? thanks!
WBraun

climber
Oct 4, 2015 - 03:47pm PT
HOWEVER, you will loose the use of the top step with this modification

You obviously haven't done any big walls?

Top step is 100% important.

PVC on your aider steps are lame too.

You'll soon see why, and if not you will be slow.

But whatever ... n00bs will be n00bs until they acquire some experience with gear on an actual wall ....
overwatch

climber
Oct 5, 2015 - 07:32am PT
Oh sh#t you've offended the Brennan Sensibility.
jeff constine

Trad climber
Ao Namao
Oct 5, 2015 - 09:21am PT
It will be funny when the wind picks up, gettin slapped upside the head with those PVC smackers..
Messages 1 - 6 of total 6 in this topic
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