Bob,
Consider a small electric winch with a detectable cable to and from the lift panel.
You could drill a hole through the lift up panel and install a small steel plate with a thread hole. Then insert a threaded eye bolt and then attach the cable to the eye bolt and activate the winch.
Mechanical assistance, minimal alterations to your existing structures, no tripping hazard, minimal space impediment, reasonable cost expenditure with the benefit that when the hatch is open it would now be secured in an open position.
Mike (Ohio)
Over the past 20-30 years that I've "been work'in
on the railroad--all the live long day" and basically having a
blast in creating the monster.?? I'm starting to have regrets
over 2 things other than; too small of a room and no
water/bathroom (both beyond my control financially)!?
My isle became a bit cramped due to not planning
for a couple inches for view-block/background+wood trim and my
slightly increased waistline!? The other thing is my
floor-door!? That has become increasingly an issue.? I've
attached a couple of photos.? I wanted to avoid an outside
entrance/stairway, I also wanted to have a clear view of most of
the layout so I wanted to avoid a walled entrance.? So I
surprised the city permitting people, the member who helped with
the room plans not to mention most of my visitors too.? I
laminated two sheets of plywood to make it strong enough to
support at least a couple of guys standing on it, but still open
wide enough to accept a 4x8 sheet of material as it was used for
many photo sets for the NASG, SHS and several other clients.?
To help in raising the door, I used part of a
steel plate cut and welded to make a 60+- lbs counterweight that
I put in the wall cavity. It was never a body building exercise
but over the years it's become more so!?
So I'm looking for a helping hand as I age--any
suggestions?? I've got more photos.? Off hand I've thought about
garage door openers, automotive rear hatch struts and ... (out
of ideas here!)?
Bob Werre
PhotoTraxx
