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Using a bar to lift a base back to the surface


Tools to lift Heavy Stones


Using Bars and Mechanical Lifts


Use of Bars, and an Engine Lift.


John and Bruce using our Engine Lift.
Note that no metal chains are used. Only fiber belts.
Photo by John Skakel

As you proceed you will find that you will need to do lifting of stones in your cemetery. Straightening small spire stones. Placing stones back on bases. That sort of thing. This is not a science that you can easily describe. It is as so many other areas a "Learn to do by doing" experience.

Many stones can be lifted with the back of a straight mouth space being sure to keep soil between the stone and your shovel to prevent damage. Heavier stones can be lifted to place with long bars. You can find bars that are round on one end and square on the other that are 5 feet long. You will probably find two of these are a must if you are working in a large cemetery. Remember that often the stone bases for instance are too heavy to lift out, but you can easily lift them on one end, allowing you to lift one end and then the other, gradually walking them to the surface.

However, you might consider using an engine lift to do some of the heavy lifting. They do work well although there are times when it is hard to get the lift arm close enough to the stone due to the width of the feet, etc. But always remember that when lifting, you NEVER allow a metal chain to come into contact with the stone. Always use the fiber belts, and make certain that the one you use is strong enough. For instance, if the maximum working load is 4,000 pounds, we could try to only lift a maximum of 2000 pounds with that belt. That gives you a good window as the breaking point is probably 8,000 pounds. You can though for instance lift one side of a stone by bringing the belt up to the lift on that low side. It will nicely tip allowing you to put gravel underneath.

Many sites describe making a tee pee shaped device with a chain lift. However, remember that in today's modern world, you will be much better if you use a device that is made to lift and has not been altered. If you make other types of devices, and something fails, you will be more likely to have very severe legal problems than if you are using a device that was made to lift and has not been altered.


Note the Position of the two straps
One on each side
to lift the stone
Photo by T Nigh

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