[CAUT] technique for getting pianos on the colson dolly

[Jeff Tanner]

I do it myself.
Me, three concrete blocks, 6 4x4 scraps, and 3 2-ton hydraulic  
jacks.  Cost -- about $30, depending on where you get the hydraulic  
jacks and what you have to pay for them.

Place the concrete blocks - or something similarly strong of similar  
size - on the three corners of the piano. (I use a blanket sometimes  
under the blocks)  I put one 4x4 on top of a block, a jack on top of  
that, and another 4x4 between the jack and the piano.  Jack it up  
slowly and evenly so that the piano doesn't tip.  Remove the casters  
-- you may have to remove and replace the legs.  Place the truck  
under the piano and adjust it to fit the legs.  Slowly lower the  
piano until it barely hovers above the truck --- low enough the truck  
can't roll around, but bears no weight.  Tighten all bolts and screws  
and let the piano down.  I've installed 3 spider trucks this way and  
it beats the heck out of getting a crew of 10 guys to lift the piano  
while you crawl around under it.

my perspective.
Jeff


On May 25, 2006, at 7:49 PM, Debra Feiger wrote:

> Now that we've ordered spider dollies for the SS L and
> SS B, the facilities manager wants to bring in movers
> to put the pianos on the dollies.  Can someone give me
> specific instructions on how to do this in-house (how
> many strapping muscle men we need and specific
> technique).  I haven't yet gotten into the piano
> moving business even though I work out!  The
> university is worried about liability.
>
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Jeff Tanner, RPT
University of South Carolina