Hoist question

[bobc4383]

I have been looking at the hoist message threads and see how to mount it to the ceiling of the garage. My question is the best way to 'grab' the top so it can be raised up and off the vehicle (straps?, hooks?, a rod? etc.). I only plan to use it to lift the top off the car, drive it out and then set the top back down to put on the cart (no long-term storage using the hoist).

Thanks.

Bob Cunningham

[RQTBIRD]

Re: Hoist question

Bob, Here is one option that was given to me from another member that built his own hoist. He had used the following

3 Bicycle rack straps www.yakima.com/PartsList.aspx?id=108
Item #8890156, “side strap”

Not sure if the link is still good or not. I plan to build something similiar.

[bobc4383]

Re: Hoist question

Thanks - just what I was looking for.

Bob

[Lonestar]

Re: Hoist question

Bob:

Go to the Advance Search and enter Keyword hoist and select time "older" that 1 year. There are several threads and within them are pictures of basically how you need to arrange your straps. Take special note on how a strap holds the back of the top - that is critical - you basically have to frabricate a modified C brace to cup around the edge of the back & bottom of the hardtop. I looked but could not find a drawing of a C brace in older threads - got to be there somewhere.

As far as straps, another option are nylon tie down straps (the yellow jobbies). They are a lot less expensive then special use straps and have the strength to lift and hold hundreds of lbs.

[Icebluebird]

Re: Hoist question

I use the one with the "straps" mentioned above. Works perfect and easy to use and low cost!

Easy to hook up the top once you have the straps adjusted. First release the top front and rear and then put the strap clips by the rear latches and the front and rear of the top for balance. The clips fit right between the weatherstrip and the top so they don't risk damage to the top. Perfectly strong to hold the top for extended periods.

Best way to remove and replace the top. Can be done by one person easily.

I think the member's name here is GeOrge. Look in the picture gallery, I think he has pictures there.

[mdquern]

Re: Hoist question

I tie a rope around it like a christmas package with a very soft rope and use an electric winch mounted to the ceiling in my garage.
Here is the rope...http://www.onlineropestore.com/index...products_id=35

[theflash]

Re: Hoist question

I use a $50 electric witch from harbor freight and I have suction cups, like they use for commercial window moving, a cup on each side with the handle in between that cost $6 each from HF.
With three suction cups tied together I lift the roof on or off. I do not store it on the winch I lower it to the Ford cradle.