Lifting 1700lbs in Michigan --HELP!

[Donskihp]

My Son just bought a Machine Lathe in Columbiaville MI. It 1700 lbs. Having a shipping company ship it to VA. is not a very viable option. I will probably take a trailer out to Columbiaville and pick it up. My problem is getting it on my trailer. Rental companys want roughly 300 for a day for a forklift, which I would only need for about a hour or less. Any one thats lives close to this area have any suggestion or could be of any help? If I have too I'm weld up a dolly and pull it up on my trailer with a come-a-long.

 

[Bobcat]

Check with some of the local towing companies, they might be able to hoist it on a truck for a little less.

 

[Donskihp]

That sounds like a good idea, Hadn't thought about a tow truck. Thanks!

 

[Ratickle]

That's up by Wrinkleface somewhere. He's traveling today, but shoot him a PM and see if he knows anyone in the area.

Any chance the lathe has a lifting ring? Or do you think it would have to be sttapped?

I'm with Bobcat on this one if there isn't a forklift close.

 

[Donskihp]

No lifting rings, it would need to be straped. I'll shoot Wrinkleface a PM

 

[Bobcat]

Or just shoot Wrinkleface......:leaving:

 

[rschap1]

I had helped a friend and his family move all their machines a few years ago.
Not sure how big your lathe is but...we moved his, a series 1 Bridgeport, surface grinder, welder, and other small stuff all by ourselves. They are each BIG guys but the 4 of us got it all in and out of each shop and on and off trailer. We took the table and head off the Bridgeport. Maybe a lil' disassembly could make it managable enough for 3 or 4...otherwise the tow truck deal is usually pretty handle. The way they can extend and retract thier booms is NICE!
Good Luck !!

 

[Donskihp]

Talked to a guy near where the lathe is and he is willing to lift it on the trailer for $75. with his tow truck, he said 1700 lbs is not a problem.

 

[rschap1]

That sounds like $$ well spent
Good luck
I would love to have a nice lathe at home
We used to have Monarchs where I used to work
SWEET lil' set ups
We had one BIG Leblond that was huge and solid, but the Monarchs were as handy as I ever used
I ran a Mazak Quick Turn for over 10 years. Tell everyone how handy a lathe (especially CNC with live tools) can be, I am always doubted. But until you have one and get efficient at it, you never know what you are missing ! ! !