RAM Self-Propelled Drop Hammer Legacy and Parts Challenges

[MikePhua]

The Rise of RAM Drop Hammers in Pavement Breaking
RAM self-propelled drop hammers were once a staple in the demolition and road repair industry, particularly for breaking concrete slabs and pavement with brute force. Unlike hydraulic breakers that rely on percussion, these machines use gravity-driven impact—dropping a massive steel weight from a controlled height to fracture hard surfaces. The simplicity of the mechanism, combined with rugged construction, made RAM hammers popular in the 1980s and 1990s across North America.
The machines were typically built on skid-steer-style platforms or compact wheeled frames, allowing them to maneuver in tight urban environments. Their self-propelled nature meant operators could reposition the unit without external towing, increasing productivity in patchwork demolition jobs.
Terminology Clarification

• Drop Hammer: A demolition tool that lifts and releases a heavy steel weight to break concrete through impact.
  
• Self-Propelled: A machine that can move under its own power, without needing to be pushed or pulled by another vehicle.
  
• Impact Energy: The force delivered by the falling hammer, typically measured in foot-pounds or joules.
  

Design Features and Operating Characteristics
RAM drop hammers were known for their straightforward design:

• Steel hammer weight: typically 1,000–2,500 lbs
  
• Drop height: adjustable, often between 3–6 feet
  
• Impact rate: 20–30 drops per minute
  
• Powertrain: gasoline or diesel engine driving hydraulic lift and propulsion
  
• Frame: reinforced steel chassis with rubber tires or crawler tracks
  

These machines were ideal for breaking reinforced concrete, bridge decks, airport runways, and industrial floors. Their ability to deliver consistent impact without relying on hydraulic percussion made them less prone to overheating or fluid leaks.
Parts Availability and Restoration Challenges
As RAM ceased production decades ago, sourcing parts has become increasingly difficult. Common issues include:

• Worn-out lift cylinders and seals
  
• Broken hammer guides and bushings
  
• Electrical failures in ignition or control systems
  
• Obsolete engine components (e.g., carburetors, starters)
  
• Cracked frame welds from repeated impact stress
  

Many units still in operation are maintained by small contractors or municipalities who rely on fabrication shops to rebuild components. Some have retrofitted newer engines or hydraulic systems, but compatibility remains a challenge due to the original design’s proprietary layout.
Real-World Example and Field Adaptation
In Ohio, a demolition crew restored a RAM drop hammer by replacing the original Briggs & Stratton engine with a modern Honda GX390. They fabricated new hammer guides using hardened steel and replaced the lift cylinder with a salvaged unit from a forklift. The machine was then used to break up a 10,000 sq ft warehouse floor in under two days—proving that with ingenuity, these legacy machines still have a place in modern demolition.
Recommendations for Owners and Technicians
If you own or maintain a RAM drop hammer, consider the following strategies:

• Partner with local hydraulic shops to rebuild lift cylinders and fabricate seals
  
• Use universal ignition systems to bypass obsolete wiring harnesses
  
• Reinforce frame welds with gussets to prevent fatigue cracking
  
• Replace worn tires with solid rubber or foam-filled alternatives for durability
  
• Document all modifications for future service and resale
  

Alternative Solutions and Modern Equivalents
While RAM hammers are no longer manufactured, several companies offer modern equivalents:

• Arrow Hammer: self-propelled drop hammers with updated hydraulics
  
• Antigo Construction: custom-built slab breakers for large-scale demolition
  
• Epiroc and Stanley: hydraulic breakers with high-frequency impact for precision work
  

These newer machines offer improved safety, emissions compliance, and parts support—but often at a higher cost. For small contractors, maintaining a legacy RAM unit may still be the most economical option.
Conclusion
The RAM self-propelled drop hammer represents a bygone era of mechanical simplicity and raw impact power. Though parts are scarce and documentation limited, these machines continue to serve in niche demolition roles thanks to their durability and ease of repair. With creative retrofitting and local fabrication, operators can extend the life of these rugged tools and keep them pounding pavement for years to come.