Operator’s Instruction Manual – LNX Hoists

To Employer and/or Rental Agency

It is imperative that this manual be given to the operator of Sky Climber equipment and that they read, fully understand, and follow all instructions contained herein.

Warning

Any use of this equipment, other than in strict accordance with these instructions, shall be at the Operator’s risk and may result in serious injury to themselves or others.

Operator’s Instruction Manual

LNX 1000, 1250 & 1500 Hoists

Welcome to the ever-growing group of Sky Climber Hoist Operators. This manual will guide you through the features and the operation of your Sky Climber Hoist and Secondary Over-Speed Brake.

Sky Climber Hoists and Secondary Over-Speed Brakes are an integral part of a total Suspended Platform System made up of Rigging, Wire Rope, a Power Supply, the Platform, Fall Arrest/Safety Equipment and Accessories. Understanding the complete system, as well as the Hoist operation, will help you in the safe use of a Suspended Platform.

This information is a guide only, and is not a complete list of safety rules, installation or operation instructions.

Sky Climber Hoists, Secondary Over-Speed Brakes and Accessories are designed and manufactured to the highest standards in the industry. It is impossible, however, for Sky Climber, LLC to know, evaluate, and advise in every conceivable way our products are used or serviced and of all possible hazardous consequences.

Therefore, all Operators must satisfy themselves that the procedure they use will not jeopardize their safety, the safety of others, or cause product or component damage.

Sky Climber, LLC reserves the right to continually improve its products. Every effort has been made to make this manual as accurate as possible at the time of publication; however, there may be product changes that are not detailed in this manual.

Hoist Specifications & Characteristics — LNX 1000, 1250 & 1500 (Electric)

• Integral Secondary Over-Speed Brake
• “No Power” Emergency Controlled Descent
• Meets or exceeds OSHA requirements

Maximum Rated Capacity (MRC) is the total load supported by the hoist. It includes the combined weights of the stirrup, platform, work cage, bosun chair, personnel, work tools or materials, operating accessories, power cord, wire rope, and hoists.

Hoist Overview

LNX 1000, 1250 & 1500 — Electric hoists with integral secondary over-speed brake.

Electrical Hoists

• Secure cord to platform so cord weight is on platform and NOT on connection.
• At end of work shift, disconnect power cord from the main outlet.
• Protect power cords from rain and water at all times.
• Ground connector of building receptacle must be grounded.
• For 208 V applications, use one cord in combination with a yoke to the hoists.
• Use a yoke off platform line with two lengths of 10-3 SOW electric cord.
• Typically use a 250 ft, 600 V 10-3 SOW electric cord.
• Use a booster transformer when low voltage is encountered.

Note: If hoist is equipped with low voltage indicator, the main control switch green light will flash rapidly if voltage drops below 193 V. If this rapid flashing remains, install a booster transformer at the source to increase voltage to the hoists.

Electrical Pendant: Part # 41021752 – (length).

Hoist Operation

The LNX electric hoist is activated by movement of the directional switch/lever.

• Turn the directional switch/lever in the desired direction of travel to engage the motor and release the brake.
• The directional switch/lever is spring-loaded and returns to OFF when released—this engages the brake and disengages the motor.

Emergency Stop (E-Stop)

• Press the RED Emergency Stop Button to immediately interrupt power to the hoist motor and engage the brake (the hoist stops).
• Turn the red Emergency Stop Button clockwise to reset and restore power to the hoist.

Emergency Operation – Power Failure

In the event of loss of power, you may raise the hoist using the Emergency Handwheel or lower it using the Controlled Descent Brake Release Lever.

Emergency Ascent – Emergency Handwheel

If power fails and you need to raise suspended equipment:

1. Disconnect the power supply connector plug.
2. Remove the Emergency Handwheel from underneath the hoist by unscrewing it.
3. Insert the Emergency Handwheel into the motor shaft access hole on the fan cover (top of hoist).
4. While holding the Handwheel firmly with one hand, pull the Brake Release Lever as far as it will go with the other hand (releasing the brake), then crank counter-clockwise to ascend.
5. After completing the emergency ascent, replace the handwheel to its original position.

Emergency Descent – Controlled Descent Lever

Use the Controlled Descent Lever to lower the hoist during a power interruption:

1. Disconnect the power supply connector plug from the hoist.
2. Gently pull the Controlled Descent Lever toward the fan end of the motor as far as it will go to release the hoist brake and descend.

Suspended Access Installation — Guidelines

Safety is critical when installing and using suspended platform equipment. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions and all applicable Federal, State, and Local rules and regulations.

• Test your system before going aloft.
• Continuously check the system to ensure safety throughout use.
• Verify the platform has a clear vertical travel path.

Top Side Rigging

• All rigging (cornice hooks, parapet clamps, outrigger beams) must be tied back to a structural member with wire rope equal or greater in ultimate strength than the suspension line.
• Tie-back must be tight to a substantial point that supports at least 4× the rated hoist load. Do not tie back to vent pipes.
• Tie-backs must be straight back and each to a separate anchor point.
• Use parapet clamps and cornice hooks only on steel-reinforced concrete. Do not use parapet clamps on non-reinforced brick, concrete block, or stone.
• Consult a professional engineer or building owner to verify parapet construction and strength.
• Use 3/4" plywood under roof rigging to spread load on the roof. For parapet support, use hardwood as a load spreader.
• Rolling roof rig chocks, jacks, or similar devices must be secured to prevent lateral movement.

Secondary Brake

The Secondary Over-Speed Brake must be used at all times with each Sky Climber hoist. For LNX units, it is integral to the hoist.

The brake senses wire rope speed. If a falling condition causes sudden acceleration or if the factory preset trip speed is exceeded, the jaws clamp onto the wire rope, arresting descent and supporting the load. The rope releases only after the brake’s load is relieved.

Controls

• Manual Trip Lever: Pull the red handle downward to lock jaws onto the wire rope.
• Reset: Move the hoist directional switch to UP to raise the hoist—this automatically resets the secondary brake jaws.

Typical Top Side Rigging Systems

Counterweighted and Non-Counterweighted

• Outrigger beams require counterweights.
• Counterweights must be secured to the outrigger beam and be of a non-flowable material.
• Use the formula below to calculate required counterweight.

Counterweight Formula

CW = 4 × R × L ÷ B

• CW = Counterweight (lbs) per outrigger beam
• 4 = 4:1 safety factor (OSHA requirement)
• R = Reach (distance from front support centerline to hanging load)
• L = Load (Rated Working Load of hoist)
• B = Backspan (overall distance from fulcrum to center of counterweights)

Wire Rope

Handling & Storage

• Always wear gloves when working with wire rope.
• Store wire rope in a coil or on a spool; protect from abuse, weather, and corrosives.
• Do not drop wire rope; uncoil carefully to avoid kinking/twist—do not toss over an edge.
• Avoid dragging rope in dirt or over sharp/abrasive edges.
• Specified galvanized rope is factory-lubricated and normally requires no further lubrication.

Preparation

• Use 5/16" wire rope of proper length and construction: 5/16", G, XIP, RL, PRF.
• Braze both ends max 1/2" length; air cool; grind tip to a blunted point.
• Legend: G = Galvanized; XIP = Extra Improved Plow; RL = Right Lay; PRF = Preformed.

Wire Rope Replacement & Four Wire System

Wire Rope Replacement

• Wire rope is critical to safe operation. Replace only with rope meeting Sky Climber specifications.
• Use of non-specified rope may cause injury, damage, or breakdown.

Four Wire System

Four wire systems may be required to protect workers under platforms or canopies. Contact your Sky Climber representative when needed.

Fall Arrest Equipment

OSHA requires an independent lifeline for each person aloft. Each worker must wear a safety harness connected by lanyard and rope grab to an independent lifeline.

Lifelines

• One person per lifeline.
• Line must match rope grab size (e.g., 5/8" line for 5/8" rope grab).
• Certified minimum breaking strength: 5,000 lbs.
• Ends must be seized or whipped.
• Tied off to separate anchor point (not the suspension point), rated for 5,000 lbs.
• Keep lifelines away from sharp edges.
• Must extend to ground or next safe surface.

Rope Grab

• Inspect all parts before each use.
• Documented inspection required twice annually.
• Mount above operator whenever possible.

Body Harness

• Must comply with ANSI A10.14 (latest edition).
• D-ring should be positioned in center of back rib cage.

Lanyards

• Must meet/exceed OSHA standards.
• Length: 4 ft. max, with double snap locks.
• Minimum tensile strength: 5,000 lbs.

Platforms

• Follow load specifications.
• Check stirrup bolts daily.
• Use toeboards, handrails, mid-rails on open sides.
• Replace platform if exposed to acids/corrosives.
• Operate platform level only.
• Do not stand on guardrails, toeboards, or other supports. Do not use ladders on platform.
• Do not bridge from one platform to another.
• Do not transfer platform horizontally while suspended; only transfer when resting on a safe surface.
• Bosun chairs: for operator only. Do not hang loads or attach devices to seat/back.

Welding

Precautions to prevent electric shock and welding current through wire rope:

• Attach each wire rope to suspension point with insulated thimble. Insulate stored rope.
• Cover supporting rope above/below hoist with insulating material (e.g., split rubber tube taped in place).
• Extend cover 4–5 ft above hoist, and below far enough to insulate tail line.
• Guide/retain tail line to prevent grounding.
• Cover hoist, brake, and winder with insulating covers.
• Connect platform ground conductor to workpiece (size equal/greater than stinger lead).

Note: This must be a secondary conductor and must not be in series with the primary conductor between the welder and the work piece.

Steel Rope Requirements

Recommended Wire Rope – LNX 1000, 1250 & 1500

5/16" (8.0 mm) 5 × 26 WS, PFC, G, XIP, RRL, preformed, break strength of 11,585 lbs.

Compliance

Use only the specified wire rope in the LNX 1000, 1250 & 1500 Hoist. All wire rope used must conform to Federal Specifications RR-W-410P Type 1, General Purpose, Class 2. The supplier should provide a Certification of Breaking Strength proving a minimum strength. This rope is resistant to abrasion and crushing with medium fatigue resistance.

Legend: WS = Warrington Seal; PFC = Polypropylene Fiber Core; G = Galvanized; XIP = Extra Improved Plow; RRL = Regular Right Lay.

Tipping & Brazing

• Braze ~1/2" of rope tip (max 3/4"). Heat until glowing. Allow to air cool only.
• Grind tip to a taper (pencil shape with broken-off lead, not sharp).

Checking Proper Wrapping

1. Cut 50–100 ft from new spool.
2. Braze both ends.
3. Run rope through hoist 10 times (no load).
4. If strands open above/below hoist, rope is improperly wrapped → return to supplier.

Rigging & Reeveing

At job site, rig from the top down:

1. Lower wire rope until ~10 ft remains on ground.
2. Complete tie point with 3 J-clamps, thimble, and shackle (torque per manufacturer).
3. Store extra rope in a roof coil.

Hoist Installation & Testing

Suspended Platform Assembly

• Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
• If used, install an electric yoke on the platform (around center guardrails) to power each hoist.
• Secure source power line(s) to platform with strain relief or load-bearing device.
• Plug power line into yoke (if used).
• Allow enough cable length for free travel without strain.

Hoist Installation

1. Place hoist next to suspended platform stirrup.
2. Connect power.
3. Thread wire rope through hoist, keeping hands clear of pinch point:
   • Feed brazed, pointed rope end into entrance guide until it stops.
   • Move Directional Switch to UP to self-reeve.
   • Ensure rope travels freely; exit guide must be clear.
   • Guide hoist as it climbs to stirrup level.
4. Attach hoist to stirrup:
   • Remove safety & latch pins, rotate stirrup strap vertical, replace pins.
   • Insert hoist stirrup strap into platform stirrup recess.
   • Secure with Grade 5 bolts/nuts or shoulder bolts provided.
   • Tighten securely. Ensure rope exits outward, away from platform work area.
5. Secure wire rope end:
   • Limit bitter end to a few feet; store excess neatly at suspension point.

Note: Adjust rope length when changing elevations. After reeving, form a 360° loop at tail end and secure with a J-clamp. Remove clamp before dereeving.

Testing Procedures

Hoist Load Test

1. Place load equal to workers/tools/materials on one end of platform.
2. Check rigging for slippage/malfunction.
3. Select UP to raise platform ~6 inches.
4. Pull red lever to actuate Secondary Over-Speed Brake.
5. Select DOWN — platform should not descend.
6. Move switch to UP to relieve brake and reset.
7. Repeat twice. Perform at both ends of platform.

Emergency Stop Test

1. Select UP and raise ~6 inches.
2. Press Emergency Stop during ascent. Power should cut and brake engage.
3. Turn button clockwise to reset.
4. Repeat test. If fails → return to Service Center.

Controlled Descent Test

1. Raise platform 2 feet.
2. Use Controlled Descent Lever to manually release brake.
3. For non-powered descent: pull lever fully toward motor end.
4. Hoist should descend at ~35 fpm.

Troubleshooting

Do not repair mechanical portions of hoists or brakes in the field. Only perform repairs you are qualified for. For electrical issues, the LNX has a fully removable electrobox for rapid replacement.

Maintenance

• Return Sky Climber Hoists to a Factory Authorized Service Center for maintenance as required.
• Hoists are lubricated for normal use. If an oil leak is visible, return hoist for service.
• Keep rope housing drain holes at bottom of hoist open.

Flushing Procedure

When operating in contaminated environments (gunite, hydroblasting, sandblasting):

1. Lower equipment to ground and de-reeve the hoist.
2. Disconnect power.
3. Flush Sky Lock at wire rope entrance with fresh water.
4. Flush hoist while running in UP and DOWN until drain holes run clear.
5. Reeve hoist and continue operation.

Safety

Once equipment leaves Sky Climber’s control, the operator is responsible for safe use, operation, and maintenance.

Safety Prevents Accidents

• Know and understand operation of this equipment.
• Follow all Federal, State, and local codes and regulations.
• Do not alter hoists, brakes, or accessories. Use only Sky Climber original parts.
• Inspect all equipment thoroughly before use; do not use if defective.
• Wear hard hats during servicing, erecting, disassembly, or use.
• Secure platform to building face while at workstation; disconnect before moving.
• Protect workers from falling objects above and below platform.
• Keep all persons clear beneath suspended equipment.
• Never work alone on a suspended platform; ensure emergency help is available.
• Do not overload equipment beyond maximum rated capacity.
• Do not wear loose clothing while operating.

SAFETY IS IMPORTANT. Use common sense — do not take chances!

Safety Decals & Instructions

The following decals are supplied and must remain in place, legible, and readable at all times:

• Decal p/n 44000982
• Decal p/n 44000983
• Decal p/n 44000985
• Decal p/n 44000986
• Decal p/n 44000987
• Decal p/n 12009182
• Decal p/n 800-108
• Decal p/n 600-115

Inspection Frequency & Maintenance

Field Inspection

Must be performed by a designated qualified person or operator.

Inspection Frequency

• When the system is reeved.
• At the start of each shift.
• Every 4 hours in abrasive, caustic, or adhesive conditions.
• Every 2 hours in freezing conditions.

Factory Inspection, Maintenance & Testing

• Every 12 months in normal (non-contaminated, non-freezing) environments.
• Every 6 months in contaminated or freezing environments.
• After every job involving gunite, hydroblasting, or sandblasting.

Checklists

Check daily or before the start of each shift:

Cornice Hook

• Substantial structure for hook and tieback point
• Tieback at proper angle
• Check fist grip torque (5/16" – 30 ft.-lbs.; 3/8" – 45 ft.-lbs.)
• Bearing block in place
• Warning and rating labels in place and legible
• Capacity equal to or greater than hoist rated load
• Spacing of hooks equal to hoist spacing

Parapet Clamp

• Substantial structure for clamp and tieback
• Wall surfaces parallel (vertical)
• Tieback at proper angle
• Check fist grip torque (5/16" – 30 ft.-lbs.; 3/8" – 45 ft.-lbs.)
• Warning and rating labels in place and legible
• Capacity equal to or greater than hoist rated load
• Spacing of clamps equal to hoist spacing

Rolling Roof Rigs

• Tieback at proper angle to substantial structure
• Check fist grip torque (5/16" – 30 ft.-lbs.; 3/8" – 45 ft.-lbs.)
• Load on jacks – not casters
• All hardware in place and properly torqued
• Warning and rating labels in place and legible
• Counterweights – correct amount, properly attached
• Beam reach not exceeded for hoist rating
• Spacing of beams equal to hoist spacing

Tank Top

• Tieback to substantial structure
• Check fist grip torque (5/16" – 30 ft.-lbs.; 3/8" – 45 ft.-lbs.)
• Roller seated properly
• Warning and rating labels in place and legible
• Roller rating equal to or greater than hoist capacity

Ring Girder Roller

• Tieback to substantial structure
• Check fist grip torque (5/16" – 30 ft.-lbs.; 3/8" – 45 ft.-lbs.)
• Roller seated properly
• Warning and rating labels in place and legible
• Roller rating equal to or greater than hoist capacity

Rigging Slings

• Sling attached to substantial structure (4:1 safety factor)
• Check fist grip torque (5/16" – 30 ft.-lbs.; 3/8" – 45 ft.-lbs.)
• Rope protected at chafing points
• Rope protected at break points

Permanent Davits – Daily Check

• Davit inspected and tested before use
• Installed per manufacturer’s instructions
• Capacity equal to or greater than hoist
• Check fist grip torque (if used)

Counterweights – Daily Check

• Designed for use as counterweights
• Securely attached to beam
• Made of non-flammable material
• Individually labeled (Sky Climber counterweights = 50 lbs.)

Final Verification

Ascertain that:

• Instructions are kept with unit at all times (contact Sky Climber for extra copies).
• All warning and rating labels are in place, legible, and read.
• Hoist drain holes are open and fasteners checked.
• Hoist connected to proper power source.
• Minimum 3 J-clamps used and tight (4 required for round thimbles).
• Cornice hooks, parapet clamps, outriggers secured and tied back properly.
• Counterweights are non-flowable, secure, and correct quantity.
• Roof rigging load spread with 3/4" plywood or hardwood (with parapet).
• Wire rope inspected — not kinked, bird-caged, or damaged.
• Wire rope bitter end looped and secured with J-clamp.
• Secondary brake, hoist load, controlled descent, and emergency stop tests performed and acceptable.