Replies

1. 
   deadmanmike | Jul 05, 2003 08:30pm | #1

   How often will it be used?

   My only concern with the winch/dc conv. idea is finding a dc conv with enough output current to run the winch effectively.

   Depending on loads, you could use a coupla deep cycle batteries in parallel and a charger. That way the batts are supplying the bulk current needed to pull a winch and the charger just keeps them topped off.

   Mike

2. 
   migraine | Jul 06, 2003 12:40am | #2

   There's a ittle more to it than that.  There must be "micro swithces" that will start and stop the platform at certain exact positions and this must be consistant every time the platform is moved.  Might want to research some brands a little more.  I have been told(don't know for sure) that completed lifts really don't cost as much as you would think. 

   I worked on a job that had one near Lake Tahoe and the thing went out 4-5 times in 2 weeks.  The owner told us that we wold have to carry all our tools up and down 3 flights of stairs.  Barely enough room for one guy and his toolbox.  Soon as he left, we would use it.  Funny thing is that it was rated for 300+lbs and it never broke on us.  When it did break, took a guy about 4-6 to get there to fix it.  the other times, I would fix it for his wife.  It usually was just the platform comeing of the track or a switch would come loose.  

1. 
   migraine | Jul 06, 2003 04:08am | #5

   One more thing to add...   What ever device you use(make) it must make certain safety requirements.  If not, and someone is injuried, no insurance will pay, in my understanding of insurance coverage.   Just remember, build it right the first time.  If it not a legal device(as in a U.L. approved device), when you resell, It won't have any value.  Might even be a liabilty.

1. 
   sunol1 | Jul 07, 2003 12:48pm | #6

   This device is for utility use only,(beer, groceries, firewood).I wouldn't bet against it being riden once or twice, but that is not the intent. I'm trying to save my back and knees(no one gets any younger). I'm going to check out the Harbor Freight hoist. There is a store in my area. I appreciate everyones imput and let you know how it goes. Thanks.

1. 
   migraine | Jul 07, 2003 08:25pm | #7

   I see that your list of needs is using the lift is in order."beer, groceries, firewood" :~)

3. 
   WorkshopJon | Jul 06, 2003 12:48am | #3

   Sun,

   Why not use one of these for power:

   http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=44006

   Way cheaper and they have a few different ones.

   Jon

4. 
   FrankB89 | Jul 06, 2003 01:55am | #4

   I put several of these in for cabins on a nearby lake a few years ago.

   Migraine is right;  They must have limit switches at both ends (actually there are other alternatives, but keep it simple!) so the unit stops at the appropriate spot, and on start-up, goes in the right direction.

   The one in the pic was typical, using 3/8" cable on a windlass type drum driven by a 110VAC gearmotor for a calculated speed.

   Two of the units we built had emergency brakes installed for in the event of the cable breaking.  If you're going to transport people on the thing, you need to consider those kinds of safety factors.

   If your need is just to tote groceries or a couple sacks of dog food on occasion, you can size down some.

   All of the systems we built were capable of hauling (safely) up to a ton of cargo (a function of motor HP, slope, etc.)

   I must confess that I layed out and built the structure and installed the rails but had a local electrical contractor supply and install the drive unit and set up the switches.

   The ones I did were fairly long, like the one in the picture.  Cost of the electrical and drive components, inc. labor, ran about $2500 to $3000.