DIY Mini Elevator

In which I construct a homemade, electric mini-lift to access the loft in my workshop.
PROJECT PLANS ARE NOW AVAILABLE!
www.wesleytrea...
PATREON EXCLUSIVES
If you'd like to help support my channel and get access to exclusive content, visit / wesleytreat .
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
▶ wesleytreat.com
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
▶ Merch: www.wesleytrea...
▶ Photography: satelluxestudi...
▶ Favorite Tools: amazon.com/sho...
FOLLOW ME
▶ Instagram: / wesley_treat
▶ Twitter: / wesleytreat
TOOLS & MATERIALS FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO
(A full parts list is included in the project plans, linked above.)
▶ Rockler Spring-Loaded One-Handed Bar Clamp: tinyurl.com/2w...
▶ Certiflat 24"X48" Heavy Duty Welding Table: tinyurl.com/yh...
▶ Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 Welding Helmet: amzn.to/2GUf2X2
▶ Honeywell S8500 Bionic Face Shield: amzn.to/2lhycJH
▶ 3M 7500 Series Respirator: amzn.to/3XpnejS
▶ 3M 2097 P100 Particulate Filters: amzn.to/3SZHgkc
▶ Proxxon FBS 115/E Precision Rotary Tool: amzn.to/2J1LdAW
▶ Wixey Digital Angle Gauge: amzn.to/2KbSeQ3
▶ Vevor PA400 Electric Hoist: amzn.to/3KUyVfK
▶ Four-Bearing, Unistrut Trolley Assemblies: amzn.to/3Zlzbc8
▶ Groove-Wheel Pulleys (Similar Item): amzn.to/41alOx1
▶ Aolihan Backup Alarm: amzn.to/3ZH0fT4
▶ Agrieyes Amber Beacon Light: amzn.to/3KVCGlh
SEE ALSO
▶ Fitting an Entire Loft Staircase in a Tight Space: • Fitting an Entire Loft...
▶ Single-Action Retracting Casters for a Mobile Welding Table: • Single-Action Retracti...
▶ $4 DIY Welding Table Clamps: • $4 DIY Welding Table C...
▶ Accident Scoreboard w/ Old-School Bulb Display: • Accident Scoreboard w/...
VIDEOS REFERENCED
▶ The Elevator (Channel): / @theelevator3615
▶ Blastworks - Detailed Garage Attic Lift Build: • Detailed Garage Attic ...
▶ Jay Bates - DIY Elevator: • DIY Elevator - 364
▶ Tom's DIY Shop - Attic Lift Fail: • Epic Fail - Attic Lift...
Note: I may earn a commission from certain product links.

[@WesleyTreat]

🎉PROJECT PLANS ARE NOW AVAILABLE!🎉 www.wesleytreat.com/shop/p/lift-plans

[@darrylhastings3378]

I don’t use Pay Pal. Is there another way to purchase?

[@WesleyTreat]

@@darrylhastings3378 Sorry, not at this time, but I may be able to add Stripe in the near future. 👍

[@xavierlozano9459]

Will this be able to lift 800 lbs.?

[@timderks5960]

Very clever, running that cable through the frame. I've seen a lot of elevator builds, and I've never seen anyone come up with that. One thing though: I know it's not that tall, but if you're gonna ride the elevator yourself, which I don't think you will, but... you know... Something like Jay's fall arrestor would be a nice addition. Really anything that'll prevent the elevator plummeting when the cable would break would be a pretty good idea. Also: This elevator would double nicely as a height adjustable workbench/desk. Pretty convenient.

[@SRCardow1]

Seen several with SLR's as fall protection but that is not what they are designed for. 😮😅

[@SmoothAlf]

I'm glad to see you were able to recruit some help with all that welding. Great build Wesley!

[@fixins]

A guy I knew had a freight elevator in an old building he'd bought. He ended up having to call it a "vertical reciprocating conveyor," in order to get insurance on the building. Elevators are for people and VRCs are for cargo/freight. Very different set of rules for each machine.

[@lmcsquaredgreendale3223]

Thanks for pointing that out. That means I might build something that will prevent me from selling the property and I'll have to either store the stringers or all of the stairs so I when I remove the "elevator" I don't run afoul of our cities ordinances that the stairs are brand new. These are the same ordinances that forced me to go to this option. I also hadn't thought about what would happen with my insurance. Thanks for the comment because I was so excited by finding a possible solution to my issue that I didn't see beyond that. THANKS! Now I need a plan B.

[@dj1NM3]

...or, "goods hoist" instead of "crane": one is something anyone can operate, the other requires a dogging & rigging cert and a crane-driver's licence.

[@paulfrost8952]

In the UK we call them passenger lifts (for people) and goods lifts (for goods) then there’s the American term “the dumbwaiter” (for goods which usually has a sign saying not for persons or something similar.

[@violettownmicroenterprises1528]

...thank you...😂

[@violettownmicroenterprises1528]

...not an engineer...

[@tomim7187]

Wesley, the shear joy on your face when it goes up with its fresh coat of paint, flashing lights, and siren warmed my heart! You did a phenomenal job! Bravo!

[@theothermarshal]

I've been in a state of heightened alert in anticipation of this video... your clones have not disappointed. Also, my 80 yr old seamstress mother gave the stank eye when you seemed astonished by the tote full of denim pockets. Always save the denim pockets. Also, also... Cable through the frames is genius level stuff which, when the elevator is at the top, is even higher genius level stuff. Bravo! Also, also, also... Lights and slickety paint job are what we have come to expect and the 'alert' sound makes me smile.

[@MAW-sf6ru]

I was thinking about that, bin full of pockets might do well on Ebay!

[@TimothyBrewer]

Wow that was actually a better design, sturdier and less complicated lift than I have seen on KZbin! Great Job!

[@matthewb8229]

This was a very uplifting episode.

[@lmcsquaredgreendale3223]

Love it!

[@chriscmoor]

Outstanding! The cable through the frames is genius. I think, were I building it (and think I probably will), I would make the base of lift fold up so that it could be stored out of the way even when the lift was all the way down. Thanks for the cool video and the inspiration.

[@digitaIgorilla]

The Safety Elves are appeased. Addition of flashing lights a master stroke!

[@soranuareane]

If you can't make it perfect, make it adjustable. I just stumbled upon your channel randomly thanks to the Holy Algorithm (praise be). I absolutely love how you began machining with little forepl--uh... I mean... little rambling. "You're here to watch me make things. So watch as I make a thing." Instant sub.

[@ericcarabetta1161]

The lights and visibility tape are the perfect cherry on top.

[@sgsax]

I've been waiting for this one and was very much not disappointed! A very fun and practical build for your space. And the lights and siren are a perfect addition. I know the bored elevator face was fine acting, because I know I would have a stupid grin on mine every time I rode this thing. 😁 Awesome shop upgrade! Thanks for sharing!

[@Tensquaremetreworkshop]

Great build- I want one! If you are going to ride it, you should fit a cable tension released brake (like commercial elevators). There are slots at the back of the Unistrut they could engage in.

[@valveman12]

This video was very... ELEVATING 😁

[@Jgn1skaane]

Yet a proof that the difference between a man an a boy is the cost of the toys 😉 Fun and inspirational video as always.

[@nshimala]

I never get tired of your builds and commentary. Another well done project.

[@nv1493]

Very nice! We are older and needed a better way up into the house attic than carrying stuff on our shoulders. Inexpensive 440lb electric hoist on pipe between 2 rafters over the attic stairs, plug into attic outlet. 3x3 cargo net with slings lets us put almost any shape into it. Attach to hoist hook, much easier and safer to guide the load up or down than carrying. We replaced a water heater awhile back and the plumber did a triple take when he saw it lol.

[@Katenpie]

Omg I had a blast watching this, from little chuckles to full blown laughter. You sir are fun to watch.

[@daveayerstdavies]

"Putting the FUN in functional" I love it.

[@RigItbyJim-gz2ig]

I like your style, you remind me of me, nothing fancy, plain and simple, make mistakes and show how to fix them, and the best thing of all , you don't waste time by talking about unnecessary things . Good job

[@alexold8183]

Great video, love the clone welders bit, and the final paint job and lights.

[@davestinyworkshop]

Brilliant project, and as entertaining a video as ever!

[@dass1333]

Cable through is brilliant. Even load without over engineering.

[@wrayxphoto]

Hi Wesley, Running the cable through the frame is pure genius just the solution for my aluminium/ aluminum framed campervan/ motorhome bed. Thanks from the UK...Ray

[@rfdave3980]

Westley you always make me chuckle. You design is awesome and putting cable like that , mechanical advantage. Sweet what a Treat HaHa.

[@MakerMe59]

Oh how I wish I could have this for my condo. I have about 550 ft³ of useless, inaccessible space 11 ft above my room that would make a fabulous closet. Add a retractable gate on your idea and I would have the pre-modern elevator I envision. I am seriously considering taking up welding. 👏👏👏Love your video! I'll be a new subscriber.

[@kenc2257]

What a great build. Running the winch cable through the lift frame was a stroke of genius (like you noted, on a typical ladder-style life, the cable runs right down the center).

[@KarlMiller]

I wasn't completely sold until you added the construction tape, paint and beeping flashing lights - now I just need to buy a house with a tall garage so I can build this! Also loved the through-the-frame pulley design.

[@freakygardener8033]

That is AWESOME! Now I wish I had a reason to copy it! I bet it was a SUPER FUN build!!! 👍👍

[@zeriousvolt1245]

This is the best and funniest construction video I have seen this year. I give it a 10+.

[@boardwalkbw7130]

I lOVE lOVE THIS....we are building a lift bed in our house...that lifts into the ceiling/attic flush with the bedroom ceiling...your video helped and gave me fun ideas!

[@chattavegas1]

Great job on this. I have been researching for some time to decide how to build mine. By far - best i've seen on youtube.

[@HaLo2FrEeEk]

Wesley my guy, I freaking love you. I love your sense of humor and your style of video, and the projects you make are all super awesome. If I ever manage to stop being lazy and start producing my own content like I've wanted to do for years, yours will be my primary inspiration. Thank you for sharing what you do with us

[@tomcoryell]

Dude, I am so glad you through-bolted the top of your rail structure to the joist. If you would have lag screwed it I was gonna be soooo disappointed in you! You had been so thorough up to that point.

[@thegentlemanmaker]

This video gave us a lift 😆 you’re so happy with it and your infectious laughter got us giggling too. Thanks Wesley!

[@Lorddanielrushton371]

Awesome. Thank you for masterful build and laughs.

[@CihaPet]

10/10 Love your videos. Your OSHA additions at the end, and especially your reaction of sheer glee/joy, just put the icing, and sprinkles, on this cake. Oh, and I think there is a bulb burned out on your work zone sign. The 0 didn't look 'complete'.

[@WesleyTreat]

I think it's a bad solder joint, actually

[@Rockinrobbyboy]

Genius. You do great work, and I love your sense of humor. This is a project that is on my list for a wheelchair lift. Thanks for keeping it real!!!!!

[@markmarketing7365]

I looove all the creative shots. Really sets these videos apart from other making videos. :))

[@Qspecialman]

That is very clever, as suggested below, I like the cable running across the lift and back up the other side.

[@TheBillPayingHobbyists]

Loved it. I might just need to make something similar. Gives me an excuse to buy a welder. "Hey Ellie, I need a welder. It's for you!" Thanks for sharing. Subscribed!

[@amyh.2020]

Let me start by saying what a delightful human! So entertaining! Great skills and teacher! Can’t forget to point out the KILLER editing skill!!! So happy to have found this channel! Thank you!

[@videogalore]

The joy that your smile brings is hard to measure, I would love to work with you every day!

[@reginaldcrudstump383]

Absolutely brilliant project! And such a great idea to feed the cable through the tube with rollers at each end.

[@frankripley5188]

This is what I need to build for my dog and I both. The trials of time have taken it's toll on our ability to traverse stairs.

[@kddonn]

Nice Job

[@Gazr965]

An uplifting video. Gaz UK.

[@braveheartz263]

Watching your video has reminded me of several home projects that I have to finish!!!

[@mirkovigezzi5493]

Il migliore video che abbia trovato, Ottima l´idea della carrucola elettrica sul Lato...Certo Lei e´ un Professionista e ha a Disposizione attrezzi che io posso solo sognarmi. Lo stesso Grazie per questo video molto informativo. Lei e´ un Genio.

[@roberthamm9304]

That’s an awesome build. My old boss used a forklift mast to make an elevator in his house.

[@mattwilliamson1714]

Cool idea: running the cable thru the frame! Built one of these "material lifts" years ago (pre-KZbin) in a bigger Quonset. Used the same type of trucks/trolleys (just had deeper, heavier-gauge uni-strut - the kind with no holes), a heavier winch (10 ton), many, many more pulleys, no welds anywhere, and a metal trundle bed frame (single) for the floor (left all the springs in place & topped the frame w/a sheet of 3/4" plywood). Sadly, have moved since, but the last I heard, the lift is still in place, used, and greatly appreciated. At the time, had a full trailer load of concrete forms (2x10s & 2x12s) I'd salvaged (with permission) from a nearby construction site; used those to make 2 "posts" (actually "L"s) at the 2 outside (front) corners, and bolted two 2x12s to the back (flat) wall of the Quonset. Drilled the Uni-strut & boards to hold 3/8" bolts (for each pulley), put massive fender washers on the back of each post to hold each of the pulleys in place, and installed the pulleys high enough that a 6'3" man couldn't get his fingers caught in them. Like you, I also didn't want my cables "in the way," so each corner had a 3/8" cable permanently attached to the bed frame (used welded eyes bolted thru the frame with nylon nuts on each). Those cables went up (through several pulleys), over to the back wall, then all went along the back wall to a central point (just outside the lift's materials zone), before they all 4 went down thru another set of pulleys... and connected to a very large ring on the end of the floor-mounted winch. Was going to build a plywood "cover" for all the pulleys, but ended up leaving them open and set up a "checklist" for anyone using the lift: first thing was before use, had to look at each (numbered) pulley and check for structural integrity (there were several steps to that), physically look at all the cable connections, ensure the floor, and unloading zones were clear, etc. (After riding it up down at least a dozen times) I "load tested" it: set it ~6" above the floor, called six 200+ lb friends (men) to do one "bounce" in unison. None of the pulleys bent or warped, the bolts/fender washers didn't pull thru the wood, the bedframe (platform support) didn't bend, the platform floor didn't crack or shift, the posts didn't move, and the winch never sounded strained when we went up 6" and back down to the floor. Couldn't find any 120v winches back then, so wired a solar charger outside thru the wall to keep the battery charged up. Your video brought back fond memories... and introduced you to me for the first time. I'll have to go check our some of your other builds now.

[@CraigHollabaugh]

What goes up, must come down Spinning wheel got to go round Talkin' 'bout your troubles, it's a cryin' sin Ride a painted pony, let the spinning wheel spin Thanks for the excellent build video. Hero move.

[@timothyedmiston8756]

Oh, that was cool, especially the the strobe lights, that just added to the whole building right there

[@michaelwilkinson7845]

Love it especially the end with all the lights and sound

[@DavidHolguin562]

The Lights are an awesome touch!

[@Bluuri-Aeros]

I'm subscribing for this build (GENIUS!! oh, and in case nobody mentioned it, the cable strung INSIDE the elevator was DOUBLE GENIUS😂), and staying for your positivity! Thank you!!

[@ottostadtgatineau]

Just found your channel researching for my unistrut lift, (mine will ride above stairs leading to my basement) hadn’t thought of running the cable through the tube. Great idea, sorry about your dad passing.

[@johndoughty7438]

One of the best I’ve seen. Maybe put a hydraulic sweep at the front of the platform so when you hit a button it hydraulically pulls your cargo off your elevator onto The loft floor so you don’t have to go up every time and take it off. Great job, I’m going to steal some of your ideas. I love the cable inside you’re too big idea.

[@steveman223]

im really proud of my attic lift but man i love yours. it looks great. great work!

[@frankripley5188]

This guy is a craftsman!!! Nice work!

[@Wayne5455]

You did a great job! Really nice workmanship and great creativity. Thank you for your video.

[@2OO_OK]

Those lights are great! Reminds me of the Alien movies.

[@wookieecantina]

Love that Strong Hand gas cylinder bottle valve cover! I've got one as it's so easy to forget to turn off the argon for my TIG. Love your channel, honestly, you're a freakin' genius and your work is terrific.

[@kameljoe21]

I have seen a whole bunch of these made over the years and the one we had in our shop that went to the basement was just a 4 post frame with a 110v winch. Was super simple and used plastic shims to keep the thing from smacking the sides. Was about 4x4 and could move parts and material up and down pretty easy. You did a pretty good job with the cable.

[@daveash9572]

It's always a treat when you post a video Wesley. I've not yet seen your video, just wading through the pre-roll ads now. You might be interested in checking out what Herb-O-Matic built for his underground bunker...

[@OhHeyTrevorFlowers]

I just love the vibe of these videos.

[@CourtRoss]

At the 52 second mark.... gazoontite! Also, you made the best Chumbawumba referance I have ever heard in my life!!! LOLOLO

[@reddcube]

New video, what a lovely start to my Saturday.

[@brettster3331]

Wesley, you are so entertaining and likable, great video and project.

[@davebauerart]

I appreciate every problem solving moment of this project! Great solution to run the cable through with the pulleys. It works and looks great. And the lights and horn make it perfect!

[@blastworks]

Thanks for referencing by build @WesleyTreat! You've taken the concept above and beyond anything else that's been done here on KZbin so far. Nice job!

[@ryangross5446]

This is amazing. I've never thought to build my own elevator but now I'm considering it!

[@DBRGB]

Brilliant, genius, outstanding and down right gorgeous!!!! Love it. Now I will make one to get my 91 year old mother-in-law in and out of the house and get rid of the 51 ft ramp I made to get her in and out of the house. Building this will enable me to reclaim desperately needed parking space, which the ramp takes up. Did I say Brilliant???!!! Thank you so very much for this example of how to make a proper lift. The only other thing you need to figure out is, should the line break, there should be a safety that either Stops the lift in place or lowers it safely without a sudden drop. A secondary chain and sprockets with a derailer that has a slow gear should do the trick. Let us know how that turns out, if you make it? Great work!!!!

[@markusgrune6841]

Wow, this is really amazing! I now own a barn and we have a similar situation. Unfortunately, no experience in welding 😢

[@donaldfennell971]

Having way too much fun. I gotta go to welding school. Thanks for the great video.

[@gurugee2112]

That is freakin genius. Sadly you are insane !!! Love this video!

[@nurimansayana1913]

I love this design so much,...i love you❤

[@nftgaming2607]

thx for awesome video

[@ramanshinde1542]

Nashik, Maharashtra, India 👍 Intellectual job 🙏

[@martinramsey114]

Simply brilliant. I can't stick two pieces of metal together, so I'm just going to use the mast and the workings from a forklift truck (I think).

[@PhillipBlanton]

Building one of these for sure. By the way, running the cable through those pulleys and back up doubles the lifting capacity of that winch. I'm sure you know that but maybe not every one else does.

[@robschaffer2189]

I dig the lights and alarms, but no bell when it reaches the top? This is epic!

[@nwhite5955]

No shortage of awesome here. Great job!

[@nickvanderstroom6884]

I made from a similar Vevor aliexpress a lift for my metal roll shutter.. First what i have done .. used only the bare engine..also changed the steel cable for a 5 cm wide strap.. less noise..no winding problems, and quicker lift. Replaced the whole control system by own design..with relays and proximity switches.. so stopping at close and open, also operating not possible when locked with key.. Simple and good working system.. only you have to adjust the two coilsprings.. as the fence have to fall down by itself in top position.. otherwise it hangs.

[@tomsellers8678]

I Love the Blank Stare with Elevator Music!!!!!

[@victorgarza6192]

EXCELENT PERFOMANCE, LOVE IT, GREAT SKILLS , BRAVO MUCHACHO !!! IT''S EXACLTLY WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR, 👍😊

[@sixtyfiveford]

Looks great. Love the final touches.

[@davidmbeaudet]

Thanks!

[@WesleyTreat]

Thank you!

[@Simon_Rafferty]

Nice job!

[@slyfox7429]

Fantastic build. Really like the finished product. no such thing as overbuilding .... Love the yellow lamp and safety strips. Wouldn't have it any other way.

[@deemstyle]

Are you familiar with a fall arrester? I’m not saying you need it (that’s your own choice). But it might be something to consider for those “rare” times that you’re bored and decide to ride the elevator. Great build- and fun to watch!

[@deemstyle]

Herb-o-matic channel has a video of testing a fall arrester on a diy elevator. Interesting stuff! kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4vMk5SpqdeWi7s

[@stefanbuscaylet]

Most fall arrestors I’ve found seem to require more height to activate that the travel of the elevator. My build has two of the but I’m not convinced they would actually help. I get nervous any time i ride it vs taking my stairs and have been using the stairs. Anyone have any decent solutions here please post them.

[@deemstyle]

@@stefanbuscaylet The video I linked shows him actually testing the arrestor under an elevator failure situation. It worked well. He links to the arrestor he bought, I believe.

[@stefanbuscaylet]

@@deemstyle So i found the video you used and i think i understand. Other KZbinr recommended the 3m SRL (self retracting lifeline) and they include a pouch with some webbing that acts as a shock absorber of sorts (sorry don’t know the initial name i think its called an “energy absorber”.). In my 3M SRL the webbing is between the unit itself and the cable connector. It has a minimum free fall distance of 6 ft which means if the elevator cable breaks at 5 you’re still going to be moving by the time you hit the ground. The one you have seems to have the energy absorber above the ratcheting unit and your guy just didn’t use that. That helps actually. Even though i already have to 11ft SRLs on my elevator i think I’m going to get the one you referenced and then I’ll have three units. Hopefully one of them will help as falling off this thing is gonna leave me with permanent body damage.

[@ineoeon8925]

Had so much fun watching this! Cool, pretty freaking cool ending!! 😂

[@mumblbeebee6546]

What a joy! Long may you ride!

[@jean-lucsponga6572]

Superbe travail - Merci

[@billm4560]

Wesley that turned out awesome! That’s just what I need! As you said getting things up or down is a hassle! Sure glad I found your channel! Thanks for sharing!

[@kazoneill9709]

This really cheered me up no end. Great work. 🎉

[@drewmead8348]

I always come back for the laughs. Love your humor dude.

[@Jer_Schmidt]

Oh look, my new favorite video! Great engineering here, I really like the cable going under and back up, and good thinking integrating the limit switch like that. I'm also oddly satisfied by that angle brace at 5:18.

[@WesleyTreat]

Thanks! Yeah, I went through a few iterations of the mount for the eye bolt that certainly would've worked, but were just awkward-looking, till I decided to use that bit of flat bar. 👍‍‍

[@AndreSjoberg]

The lights just *made* it, loved this project :)