Question 1

I'm surprised no one mentions that you have to drill ten holes fairly close together in each joist for the lag screws, according to instructions.  Ten seems like overkill.  Won't this weaken the joist?

Accepted Answer

Most ceiling joists are 2x6 and bigger and I have installed two of these lifts on the same joists and have not seen a problem with sagging or splitting of the wood. Considering the lift will hold up to 250 pounds it needs to fastened securely. If you are concerned about your joists being weakened by drilling I'm sure you could come up with a cripple stud solution where a second piece of wood is fastened to the original joists with three bolts and then the lift is screwed into the cripple studs. Still drilling the original joist but only in three places rather the ten.

Question 2

my ceiling is about 18 feet in the garage.  Can I extend the cables/controls ?

Accepted Answer

I have 9' ceilings in my garage and the platform lowers to within 18" of the floor. You could add cable to extend the drop to accomodate the added height from the original point. However your highest lift point would be about 7'6" above the floor. I am sure any alterations would void any warranties to the product. On a side note: I have two now and will be ordering at least one more soon. As far as control rod, you will have to extend it to meet your needs. The directions suggest a 1/2 inch drill but I had a local machine shop turn the insert down to fit a 3/8 drill. I might advise you to not use a cordless drill. I personally would consider going a little lighter on the max weight.

Question 3

Do you need to install any lag bolts in the T-bracket section? Directions only show 4 bolts on each of four arms.  I want to straddle a metal i-beam.

Accepted Answer

Sorry I don't know the answer to that question.  I had a handyman install it who has installed it several times.   I know he said he used different stronger bolts that were in the original package and said the unit would now hold up to about 300-400 lbs. without worry.   You will love it.  It's the best solution around.

Question 4

Does the rack have to be fully retracted to lock? For example, can it be raised half way and lock?

Accepted Answer

You can lock it pretty much any height you want. You raise and lower by turning a loop and the lock puts a pin in the loop so it won't turn.

ASIN	B0009I8AO6
Batteries Included?	No
Batteries Required?	No
Color	Black
Customer Reviews	4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (1,819)
Date First Available	November 1, 2000
Finish	Steel
Included Components	Add-on Units
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Item Package Quantity	1
Item Weight	47.2 pounds
Item model number	PHL-1R
Manufacturer	Racor
Material	Steel,Nylon
Mounting Type	Ceiling Mount
Part Number	PHL-1R
Product Dimensions	48 x 6 x 24 inches
Size	Pack of 1
Special Features	Durable
Style	Adjustable,Unique
Warranty Description	1 Year Limited

Racor - PHL-R, Garage Ceiling Storage Rack Lift

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Common Questions