What Do You Know About Material Lifts?

Among the lifting equipment in LGH’s fleet, some of the more under-utilized pieces of equipment are the material lifts from Sumner™ and Genie®. Available in capacities ranging from 250 to 1,500 pounds, material lifts can be used in a variety of different applications that can allow for jobs that would typically require an extra set of hands to be completed by only one person. Here we will discuss the material lifts in LGH’s rental fleet as well as some practical applications for your projects.

Genie® Super Hoist

Genie® Super Hoist

Starting with the lower end of the capacity range is the Genie® Super Hoist, models GH 3.8 and GH 5.6. The GH 3.8 has a platform size of 17×24 inches and a collapsed height of 41 inches but extends up to 12 ft 5.6 in and can lift 300 pounds. The next size up, the GH 5.6 also has a platform size of 12×24 inches but comes in a bit taller at 54 inches collapsed due to the increased lifting height of 18 ft 4.5 in and carries a 250 pound capacity. Both models are great for lifting things like drywall or ductwork into place and can cut the time required to complete the project in half.

Sumner™ 2100 Series

Sumner™ 2100 Series

Stepping to the more traditional style of material lifts, with a 650-pound capacity is the Sumner™ 2100 Series. LGH has both the 2118 and 2124 models in our fleet with the same overall footprint but the 2124 raises around 5 ft higher than its 2118 counterpart adjustable to 18 ft 4 3/8 in or 23 ft 9 3/8 in respectively. Both models can gain an additional two feet of height by reversing the forks from bottom to top position. With a width of 31.25 inches, the 2100 series lifts can fit through most doorways when the foldable stabilizer legs are raised up, allowing for the lift to get into places forklifts cannot. While the Sumner™ lifts can be used for similar applications to the GH lifts, the increased capacity and fork style lifting platform opens up additional uses. Some of our customers have used the 2100 series lifts to raise pallets into place, assist in overhead door repairs and transporting a load through a narrow doorway with ease.

Sumner™ 2600 Series

Sumner™ 2600 Series

The larger size Sumner™ 2600 Series further increases the lifting capacity to 1,100 pounds but comes at the cost of overall lifting height. LGH has model 2615 in our fleet with operating base dimensions of 62”Lx31.5”W, allowing the user to still fit through most doorways. Maximum extension on the 2615 comes in at 14 ft 5 in with the forks down or 16 ft 5 in with the forks reversed so most applications are still accessible. Specific applications would be the same as the 2100 Series but the increased capacity may make this model a more versatile option on your job site.

Sumner™ R Series Roust-a-bouts

Sumner™ R Series Roust-a-bouts

Rounding out the material lifts in our rental fleet are the Sumner™ R Series Roust-a-bouts. LGH has four models in our fleet – the R-100, R-150, R-180 and the R-250. All four options carry the same capacity rating but have varied heights of lift and overall footprints. Often used to hoist bundles of pipe or similar products, Roust-a-bouts are a versatile option in areas where forklifts and other hoisting options are not viable.

  • R-100 – Comes in with a collapsed height of 79 inches and a base dimension of 32×40 inches, the R-100 can raise a load up to 15 ft from the ground. There is a 20-inch distance between the lifting point and the end of the legs that must be accounted for in your workspace to ensure the load can be reached.
  • R-150 – Similar specs to the R-100, the R-150 carries a slightly larger base at 40×40 in
  • R-180 – Sizing up, the R-180 is a taller, more robust option, bringing the collapsed height to 126 inches and the overall maximum lift to 18 feet with a base dimension of 50×50 inches. Also of note is the required 25-inch distance between the hook and the end of the legs.
  • R-250 – The largest of the set, the R-250 is a bit shorter when collapsed, coming in at 119 inches but can raise all the way up to 25 feet in height courtesy of the 60×60 inch base. The hook is set 30-inches back on this model, so additional space is required to make the lift.

*** For lifts above 20 feet, supplied guy lines must be attached to stabilize the load ***

Next time you have a project that can utilize one of these lifts, give your local representative a call or to learn more about any lifting, rigging, pulling or jacking need, take a look through our Online Catalog or give us a call at 800-878-7305 to find the right gear for your project.