I work in biomed and we have aluminum cast brackets with similar profile/dimensions that are used on variable load far less than this ladder, think of monitor mount or some sort of holder arm. Anyway, they always break after certain years / number of loads.
Finally manufacturer changed to brass ones that are basically machined from single piece (more $$$ too).
I think JLR thought ladder won't be used as much, just there for urban coolness.

 

they helpfully offered to sell me another for the low low price if $1100ish plus tax.

closer to 1200. I stoped listening after the 11.

it’s really incredible they can churn out this sort of garbage.

They’re aware of the fragility. They couldn’t care less.

Very easy to get hurt falling off ladders. I was fortunate.

I had been a big proponent of the design and its positioning. A side ladder is very useful. I still use it. I just don’t put weight on the lower 3 rungs.

I contacted LR directly via their FB. Pictures and info etc. I have little expectation they will reply. I just want a hinge.

Ladders to nowhere or ladders to never to be used racks will never break. It’s rare a week goes by that I wont be on mine.

 

Honestly, that kind of sucks. If you know somebody that is skilled with TIG some careful grinding to give some inset bead to the center of the casting, some O grade rod (super soft, pure aluminum). Then an access to a mill. After you weld it, mill off the protruding bead. My bud has a super Man-Cave, with all the above. Just would need the skilled welder dude. As part of my license on aircraft, welding castings is part of our training. On a funny note; during my practical test, the examiner handed me a broken gear casting and asked how I would weld it. After explaining the inspection, material evaluation and so on. I then said, "I would then take it to a good welder to do it." "I can't weld." I can supervise. He said, "good answer." Too bad, while at Soloy in Olympia, we had a contract welder that could butt weld aluminum foil. I unfortunately don't have his contact anymore.

What happened to you is why I opted out of the installed ladder options. I like this better:

 

Sadly i don't have any welder mates anymore. When I lived in north Queensland, two of my best mates were great welders. A fitter and a boiler maker if memory serves. They even let me have a crack at it one evening after a few cold ones. Sadly, I don't know anyone with the skills anymore.

Frustratingly, there has to be shelves with boxes of these hinges sitting about somewhere in China most probably.
Most things are made to be replaced rather than repaired. Such a simple 5 minute repair with a new hinge. Shame it can't be ordered.

 

If you do not get a reply from LR, I would get an attorney to send them a letter. You could have gotten seriously hurt on that ladder and they are liable for designing a faulty weak ladder which is obviously not fit for its purpose. They need to have a warning label on the ladder! You buy LR products for their sturdiness and durability.

 

I think you’re confusing me with someone who likes spending money.

I'm not about to pay a lawyer when I’m too tight-fisted to buy a $220 knockoff for its lovely hinges.

I already used my best zip-tie too. I’d been saving that for a special occasion

 

Has nothing to do with wanting to spend money on attorneys. It is not about the money but the principle of designing a ladder that breaks with no warning.

 

i run a foundry and i am not sure what you mean by 'looked porous' ? its entirely possible to weld it back together.

 

you sound naive about how the legal system works.

 

"looked porous" I can see holes in the casting. Looks like a granular sponge in places.

I'm sure it could be welded together. It's made of metal after all. (aluminum by the looks of it)

Sadly I do not run, own, or by other means have access to a foundry. Poor life choices I guess.