Too big to handle

[kwb]

Quick turnaround fab project has a fun one for me right now.

Project needs a couple panels just over 6' x 11' of 1/4" plate I had to order materials before the field measure was done. Had to get 8x16 pieces of plate and will cut down myself.

They sure as hell aren't coming off the trailer until they are finished size because I have no good way to move plates this size (or space to store inside) with the framework for these also in the shop.

I will be very glad to get this one done and out of the shop this weekend.

So when have you gotten yourself into a bind with materials that are just beyond your normal handling capability? How did you get around it?

And don't tell me not to take the job - this is a good customer and pays pretty well for getting to play in the shop and make sparks.

 

[hunter1151]

you would be surprised what you can move with pieces of pipe and a lever

 

[A_Pmech]

Always take the job! You can figure out how to move it later.

So when have you gotten yourself into a bind with materials that are just beyond your normal handling capability? How did you get around it?

I thought I had once, but I was wrong. My friend and I spent four hours dragging it off the trailer when I could have lifted it off once it was slid far enough to the rear. Live and learn...

You need a forklift and a plate clamp, it makes moving plate fun!

 

[kwb]

Plate clamps are on the list of things to get but not going to happen this week with other goings on.

 

[A_Pmech]

Plate clamps are on the list of things to get but not going to happen this week with other goings on.

You can also buy weld-on pad eyes, which might be helpful.

 

[gtermini]

You need a forklift

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You never realize how much you needed a forklift until you own one. Best invention ever!

Greyson

 

[kwb]

Love my forklift - it needs another headgasket but keeps going.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Chec this video out. Moving 6'x45'x1/4" steel with some homemade clamps, locking pliers, 1/4" cable, chains and HF pulleys.

Moving Steel

 

[bartz32tt]

I use my engine hoist for lots of things other than just engines. It definitely comes in handy and has a relatively small footprint since it folds up. You might consider an A-frame hoist though..get one wide enough to fit around your truck bed. I'm sure it can be disassembled and be put away fairly easily if need-be.

 

[mebuildit]

I'm getting ready to build a new house and a 2500sqft shop for myself. I plan on buying a forklift for that exact reason. I'm getting older and don't want to be slinging heavy pieces around anymore.
Forklift is your best friend in this case.

 

[A_Pmech]

Chec this video out. Moving 6'x45'x1/4" steel with some homemade clamps, locking pliers, 1/4" cable, chains and HF pulleys.

Moving Steel

It's funny you post that Wizard. I watched all his videos over a period of two or three nights. He's doing a lot with a fairly basic set of tools and the results so far look very promising.

I'm not much of a sailor, but the solitude and silence of a long ocean voyage by sailboat is something my personality finds appealing.