advice appreciated

[stellabird]

I have recently become the owner of a 1955 Thunderbird. I need to purchase a lift for the hardtop and am leaning toward a brake winch type. Does any one have recommendations on where to purchase and if this is the appropriate choice for one person operation?

Thanks!

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[JimEagle]

Hardtop Hoist

Hi Stellabird,

I have had great success with an IMC hoist that I use for my 2003 TBird. IMC manufactures hoists for many makes and models, including the '55 TBird. Personally, I would recommend AGAINST a one-man operation for hardtop removal or installation. ESPECIALLY during hardtop removal, as unless you can precisely determine the center of gravity, the hardtop will swing wildly once the pins are free. With the brake winch lift, you won't need a second person for muscle, only to stabilize and guide the top during removal or installation. Here's the link to IMC Manufacturing and a link to Hoist Lifts for price comparison:

http://www.removabletops.com/index.php?category=17

http://www.hoistlifts.com/ford.htm

Good luck,

Jim

 

[George]

I agree. If you are not perfectly under the lift points it will swing. You also need to have space available so you can reach the crank on the wall.
Personally, I have the electric one so you can be as far or close as you want to lift or desend to tops to/from the car. So I'm able to minimize the swing if I'm not parked exactly where I should be😛
BTW, I had a manual lift w/o a brake for my '56 Bird and that was a disaster waiting to happen. That's why I got the electic one this time.

 

[stellabird]

thanks

Thanks for the feedback. Now I have something to go on. And it's finally convertible season!

Kathy