All the responses give great suggestions - I use several in my shop. Given that my crossover interest to machining grew out of building street rods, I have used an engine hoist, transmission jack and an automobile lift - each with varying degrees of applicability. They are not always practical, however, and in some instances can be made to work but involve a lot of time and setup. One particular application that I've found challenging is hoisting a 125 lb. rotary table on and off the milling machine. Below are some photos of a portable 'elevator' I made for this and other tasks. I had a headstock for a Harrison M300 lathe - I needed a shaft that cost $1,100 new. Bought the entire headstock for $300. That became the gearbox for the elevator. A motor that I took off an out-of-commission grain auger became the power plant. The chain is a section from a neighbor's old hay baler. Had to buy the casters and most of the metal (sigh) but for the most part, everything else was leftovers or scrap - even some of the bearings. The headstock is set at its lowest speed, and the gears for the chain drive reduce it even further. I made the height sufficient to lift the rotary table from a heavy duty shelf onto my mill's table. The process is simple: raise the elevator to the appropriate height; slide the rotary table onto it; lower (for center of gravity) and roll to mill; raise; slide onto the mill table; and you're done. Piece of cake.Looking for everyones ideas on moving heavy items in the shop. Chain fall, hoist, trolley, dolly, etc....and any combination of the options...basically using whats between the ears instead of your back. Thanks
http://www.badgerclamp.com/index.html No association or interest in the company other than a satisfied customer. The site has load test info as well.I would like to know more about this Badger Clamp ....