exploring the elevator shaft in a 1919 industrial building renovation

[@neil6212]

Great to see! You have answered a lot of my questions here today, as I'm particularly interested in old industrial equipment. (I worked for just over 50 years as an industrial electrician, and spent a lot of time exploring old industrial sites, comparing them to the environment in which I worked. Getting down to your specific questions, that pulley mounted in place on the floor, would have been used to track the position of the elevator car, and possibly an overspeed detector. The motor used on this installation isn't really very large as elevator drive motors go. Probably on the order of 10HP. The big sheave is used to drive the hoisting ropes, with the counterweight along the wall keeping tension on the (wire)ropes for traction. The gear box is driven by a worm gear, which prevents it from moving when power is not applied. Since everything that rotated will have a fair amount of inertia, there is an electric release brake between the gearbox and the motor. This is essential to correct operation, as elevators are expected to stop and hold with a fair degree of accuracy. The big slate panel behind that piece of plywood is the controller for the hoisting motor. The little 11 pin socket would be for a plug in relay or timer. Considering that it has two sets of three conductors attached to it, I would say it definitely is for a relay. Someone in the past (Probably factory maintenance electrician) installed it as a field repair, after finding the old relays, A/K/A solenoids were unobtainium at the time. I would replace it with a much more fitting industrial relay. The "threaded" and broken white bar is a resistor with a capacity of possibly 100 watts. These were widely used on DC drive systems. That "heat sink" is really a largish selenium rectifier, easily replaced by a suitable bridge rectifier package. They apparently used DC control voltage on some circuits. I'm mailing out a vintage appropriate text book, with the sections on elevators marked by post it notes. If I were there, I could probably get the works running in a day or so. I've been retired...from the day job...for around 15 years now, but haven't lost interest in electrical/mechanical equipment.

[@brickandsole]

My gosh, you aren't local? can you send me an email to the address in the description of the video?

[@chuxmix65]

Your elevator is fine. Unless you see frayed cables or structural problems it can be fixed. My guess is that there was an electrical problem and someone un-qualified tried to fix it. There are thousands of elevators much older than yours still in use in Boston, NYC and Chicago. I've been in elevators that make yours look modern. And they worked!

[@briansaier4929]

You can take a photo negative of that sheet for the elevator to read it

[@brickandsole]

Thats a good idea, I can manipulate it in photoshop.

[@bufords]

Hollister and Whitney still there and running. They offer tech support! Call them and tell them you own one of their elevators and need some help. Record it all for a movbie! Elevator can be fixed, clean that pilot house out, then call in an electrician. That elevator is key to making money bud. Just wondering are there any indoor stairwells or are they all outside?

[@brickandsole]

It is indoor, but ut to the roof that is technically outside but under new metal roof. So not sure how to answer that questions. Great info about the company!

[@bufords]

@@brickandsolewas just wondering if there was an indoor stair case to get from main floor to top. All I've every seen is the fire escape outside the building.

[@pch421054570]

Agree 100%. That elevator would be very attractive to potential tenants.

[@Clevelandsteamer324]

Old stuff is built way better than new and is designed to be repaired unlike today.

[@DAngeloDino]

Beautiful architecture and materials within this building. As much of a museum as a magnificent structure.

[@fredmeyer1898]

Hollister Whitney is still in business in Quincy! You can probably obtain service, build specs and related info.

[@brickandsole]

someone mentioned that! I will likely give them a call.

[@carlosquintana6930]

That’s OK buddy one day at a time little by little do you doing a great job 👏

[@brickandsole]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@armchairobserver4747]

Nice video. I love looking at the old stuff. It might be easier and cheaper to install a new/used hydraulic elevator system rather than bring the old traction system up to code. Providing 3 phase is as easy as adding a single phase to 3-phase transformer. In order to change the motor spin direction of a 3 phase motor you only need to swap any 2 of the 3 wires on the input for the motor. A good way to identify 3 phase is when you open the breaker/fuse panel you will see 3 bus bars suppling power to the fuses or breakers if you see that than the panel is 3-phase. In your house when you open the power panel you will see 2 power bus bars feeding breaker in an alternate config.

[@brickandsole]

This is way above me for sure. I bet replacing is the way to go, this will never ever be legal for people for sure.

[@frozenoem1]

@@brickandsole Back in 1990 Roxbury or Jamaica Plains, MA aka Boston with an upgraded floor selector panel in elevator they were legal to carry passengers or freight if last one on, remembered to close inner and outer doors. Otherwise it was a joyous 4 floor walk up to wherever it was waiting.🤣

[@agentcovert]

Some of the work arounds for replacing 3 phase power..would include a VFD (variable frequency device).. a Rotary phase converter..which is a lot more robust and last forever plus basically plug n play setup..vs the programming necessary for a VFD to work..they also have solid state phase converters that are plug n play but only 2/3 the power..so a 3hp motor would be down graded to 2hp etc..they are some of the cheapest options although..each has its pros and cons..Rotary phase converters are the best but also cost the most too..

[@brickandsole]

copied and pasted last couple comments so I can refer later. Cheers!

[@ryandean69]

That’s funny! Must have been a few hero’s that lived in warehouses and lofts, because that’s one of the reasons I want an old industrial building!🤣 Apartment, one wing would make a massive house!! ✊

[@brickandsole]

I wonder if that is the kind of place where fonzi lived. LOL.

[@jimclasquin]

Work hard to keep your 3 phase power. You'll grow to appreciate it the longer you're in the building!

[@dane-my1qo]

Tell him y

[@brickandsole]

Thats what everyone keeps telling me but other than the elevator I dont have any 3 phase stuff. Is it likely I will?

[@jimclasquin]

@@brickandsoleI've "walked through life" encountering SO MANY detours, parallel paths, false starts, changes of directions, new opportunities, unforseen circumstances and amazing outcomes, that I've learned to keep my options open for the future. Who knows. Maybe other visionaries out there are looking for a place to set up a trade school for disadvantaged youth, or an up and coming theatrical company needs space with power for 6 months until a theatre in Chicago is renovated. Or a Polish manufacturing company needs a place to test custom equipment before shipping it overseas. Or..... If I'm right, you've never thought your factory can evolve into an incubator ( and it may never happen), but having three phase the power as an option keeps those doors open. I'm assuming, of course, that the incoming power lines haven't been previously scavanged by others or otherwise useless. If you have to pay to get the third leg (re) established, that is, new wire run to the factory, then that's a cost you should defer.

[@SheaTransue]

​@@jimclasquin I couldn't agree more with Jim here. I'm a Manufacturing engineer at a textile plant with a degree in Electro-Mechanical Enginerring. Having 3 phase power is just so incredibly useful, I won't restate the examples from Jim but it opens the door to so many useful machines, many of which get passed over BECAUSE they are 3 phase and home gamers and even small businesses don't have the hookups. This means these machines go for cheap becaue no one else can run them.

[@Nightowl_IT]

19:50 It's probably for oiling the floor or cleaning it.

[@Expatriate1977]

I’d come out and help because this is really cool but I’m at a reset point in life where I have to start from scratch and build my own business and then I can take on assisting in projects of this magnitude. I really think you should try to keep it as close to original design as possible. It may be possible to sell antique furniture and many other items on the upper floors and sell antique cars and other vehicles on the first floor. I see a huge amount of potential in this building.

[@kristenwill57]

They should be able to wire the motor from three f to two f and a control that changes 3 th as to two f

[@brickandsole]

I have 3 phase in the building but I need to run down the routing and check it, might need re-wired.

[@sparks869]

@@brickandsole Three phase might save you some money as you could avoid expenses like buying a VFD. I would title a video with the name of the elevator company in a future video. Like "Can this 1919 Hollister Whitney Elevator be saved?" or something like that. Maybe you can attract the antique elevator crowd?

[@Jennifermcintyre]

@@sparks869 good idea! Someone out there knows how to get it going again!! 🤞🙏

[@thegigi4109]

Husband says that the large control mechanism shown at 15:00 is the relays, which control the two directions the elevator travels and the 3 stops it makes. He says that one of the relays is missing. I remember visiting the lift room on the roof at a large hospital that had a relay system for its elevator -- every time it stopped, changed direction, or responded to a call button, the relays would clack like giant maddened typists. The large ceramic things behind it are broken resistors, which will screw into a socket on the back. At 29:22, you show the other control mechanism with more relays, and husband says that the solenoid would have gone onto those empty threaded screw studs. This mechanism is the starter mechanism for the 3 phase motor. His recommendation -- find an antique elevator specialist -- they do exist -- or sell off your old system to a collector and use the money to install a new system. It'd be cooler to have the original working, but more expensive and probably more high-maintenance.

[@brickandsole]

Thank you for identifying the location of the solenoid. I'd love to keep it original, it seems pretty simple if I can get it going. The problem for me is the safety (meaning the electrics) as I don't have fire suppression in the building yet. I don't know if I could get it down to sell. it is incredibly heavy.

[@GlamGam1964]

I wish you could drive up to Grand Rapids, Michigan and see the Sligh Furniture building. It’s massive. It’s right off the freeway on Century St. I’m not sure if anything is in the back, but the front is three amazing antique stores. Despite the slower economy, these places were BOOMING this weekend. I had to return this morning for a piece of biz, and they were just as busy on a Monday morning at 10 am! I spent about $275, and my daughter spent about $100. She’s actually searching for specific vintage and antique items, whereas I am only buying what I can flip or what might catch my eye. Id like to actually go on an antiquing/thrifting/junquing trek through Indiana. I have stopped at a place or two on my way through, but not seriously. Love your videos. I am one of the ones concerned with structure. I will rest easier when you get the mechanicals and roof and structure finished.

[@brickandsole]

some of the flipping youtube channels grow really fast. I really like antique malls.

[@Jennifermcintyre]

@@brickandsole I’ve noticed that those channels are very popular and satisfying for those of us who would love to restore furniture but don’t have the time or patience! One thing I have found is channels that grow the fastest do the KZbin shorts because KZbin will introduce your channel to tons of people who are interested in similar topics and aren’t currently subscribed. You could give it a try by taking a minute clip of existing content and cropping it in a vertical format. I know a lot of people would enjoy this channel once they find it!! 😊

[@pskully57]

You could use a good camera to take a photo of that information tablet on the elevator, then put it in Photoshop or something and enhance it so you can read it. It's really just stained, but all the info is visible, just not very good. I'm surprised there isn't anyone around there that knows anything about the elevator. That thing is just fascinating. It's antiquated yet very heavy duty. I believe it could work again. On the roof you could use something like a flex tape flex paint combination on some of the smaller stand alone leaks. I've done that before. Other than that, looks like things are really coming together, and the dry season will give you a good window to work on that roof.

[@brickandsole]

YEah, I know you can increase contrast etc. Like forensics for free! Cant wait til its in the dry.

[@pskully57]

@@brickandsole I didn’t realize it was wet, did you mean in the day?

[@Davett53]

The 1900s era freight elevator in the warehouse where my art studio was in, was very primitive. To activate upward or downward movement, you had to grab onto greasy black cables, which you accessed through a rectangular opening in the side of the elevator car. Pulling them upward and the car went up, pulling down, and the car went down. Physically yanking the cables released the counter weights. I believe it also turned on the elevator motor. Because you'd hear a motor (groaning) as it slowly moved the car. To stop the car, at the designated floor you had to pull up a slatted wooden gate, which stopped the motor. This made it hard to incrementally go up and down. Because to re-activate movement, you had yank on the greasy cables, once again. It was a semi-nightmare to operate,....and I only used it once every couple months, when we had enough trash, to take down to our dumpster, behind the building.

[@brickandsole]

Sounds like an adventure, haha. Or one that the motor went out i.

[@armchairobserver4747]

A quick work around could be rent or buy an electric Scissor Lift that lifts high enough to reach the top floor. Dig down in the current elevator shaft so the scissor lift platform is somewhat the same height as the ground floor and dig out a ramp to drive the lift in and out of the shaft. You should likely build wire doors with locks so no one falls into the shaft or nothing falls unexpectedly at each floor. Boom, temporarily safe effective elevator, that’s your Cadillac of workaround ideas right there 🙂

[@brickandsole]

Thats an interesting idea. Its has drop down gates interior and exterior. but third floor is 35 feet above bottom floor.

[@armchairobserver4747]

@@brickandsole Yup, the approximate lifting height range is 20 to 50 feet. 40 feet is typical. I was thinking leave the big doors up and build wire gates for light. Once the lift is up 30' you could anchor it to the building to keep it from rocking while it's extended

[@TheNannakim]

The home made tool might be to move snow off the roof. Thats why its in that room that aows you on the roof. Your metal roof also maybe getting ice up under the connections of the piece's and then when it warms up, it is inside or under the roof now and theres your water

[@Ham549]

11:27 that is the actuator to release the brake. The break is held closed by springs so it's fail safe In order to release it power needs to be put in.

[@brickandsole]

Yeah that is what I learned. Default position is break "on". Nice.

[@kristenwill57]

Rubber membrane under the flashing and will work on your seams to

[@brickandsole]

Great tip! Thank you.

[@user-rx3ew9fq5r]

The lag bolts were probably to keep people from falling down an open elevator shaft.

[@82ndairbornevet]

Chris, great tour of the elevator house. It looks complicated to me,I’m not an electrician so I wouldn’t know where to begin! I hope you will be able to eventually get it fixed and running.

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

With a name like that you must have put a lot of running miles on Ardennes.

[@brickandsole]

Thinking about just puting in a super power electric hoist. Wont be transporting people legally in it anyway, at least then i could lower freight out of the top floor.

[@dougdobbs]

What a great tour! Wish I was an electrical expert that could help you with the elevator. You might try the historical society in the town where it was made. They may have diagrams or instruction/maintenance manuals that might help. Keep up the good work! :)

[@brickandsole]

Thanks Doug, Its a slow process but I won't give up! I heard the elevator company is still in business.

[@mcgjohn22]

those ceramic parts you showed where one was cracked are large high current power resistors. The modern equivalents are available. Same with the solenoid. A solenoid uses a low voltage low current to control a higher voltage higher current. Tons and tons of modern solenoids are available. A better option may be a solid state relay. Do not know how large a size they come in.

[@brickandsole]

I am getting a college education through these comments! Thank you!

[@farmmouse3011]

Advice about the roof. #1Replace all the screws. If you need a sealant look up a product called "thru the roof" it's pricy but worthy every penny.

[@brickandsole]

Ill look it up. Noted on all the screws. Now that I think about it, that sounds like good advice, and with a good sealant it will be a one two punch.

[@farmmouse3011]

@@brickandsole the sealant would be for whear the metal sheets overlap not on the screws. Don't use tar or asphalt it will dry and crack in a couple years. If it were my project I would do the screws, open up the seam where the pannels overlap along the horizontal seam calk that seam with thru the roof. Do the same with the valley then paint over the valley with thru the roof. No need to tear it all apart.

[@joereedsmith1531]

All manner of rubbish falls to the bottom of the elevator shaft. Its worth cleaning the pit out SAFELY if you can. Not only for hidden treasure, but to remove all of the greasy dirt and dust and hair and paper and rags that are a fire hazard. Sparks from power tools and welding etc often start fires in old elevator shafts when buildings are being renovated.

[@brickandsole]

yeah if the carriage ever goes back up, that will be fun to explore for sure!

[@craigtate5930]

Love seeing the OLD electrical gear in use on this elevator...several years back i help a guy revive a less old elevetor ....just couldnt get it to function automatically, so i modified the wiring to act as a simple set of hoist controls....press and hold the up or down button till you get where you were going....sadly somevyears later the city made him permanetly disable the elevator

[@mwatkins2464]

I don’t think you can take out and replace the metal roof as easily as you think. You will have to hire someone to do it. If the metal is screwed down, check all the screws to make sure they are tight. That’s a problem with metal roofs the screws become loose and cause leaks

[@brickandsole]

I would agree, but I was already able to do it one area. I can replace the screws. Even the cross members if I have to.

[@mwatkins2464]

@@brickandsole good luck to you 👍

[@frozenoem1]

As of 1990 elevator service companies still were repairing any make or manufacturers elevator. If you want elevator to work just do it, manufacturer still exists. Yep, even antique freight elevators.😎

[@brickandsole]

Nice tip. thank you. Original manufacturer still in business.

[@garythomas4914]

A giant factory down the street from me called the United Shoe Machinery Co. (1.2 million sq. ft.) was the largest manufacturer of shoemaking machinery in the world. They could outfit an entire factory like that in one trainload and I bet your building had a lot of their product. They were broken up by the 1980s in an antitrust suit. USMC’s production facility is here in Beverly, MA and now known as the Cummings Center

[@brickandsole]

Wow! that is 16 times bigger than mine! I can't imagine.

[@davidgrenis638]

NEBRASKA PIECES ARE PROBABLY BRASS BEARINGS FOR THE SHAFT ON THAT ELEVATORS PULLEY SYSTEM

[@hosscaddy]

That roof is most definitely repairable. The valleys were not installed properly. Any good roofer can set you in the right direction

[@brickandsole]

Yeah the angle is not right, it creates a low point just before the drop off.

[@GuitarJams-zs7yf]

The problem with metal roofs is the expansion and contraction of the metal in the heat every year. It pulls the seams apart after you try to repair them.

[@brickandsole]

yeah that is what I am seeing.

[@MrJeep75]

Those holes in those screen are to access the latches for the windows

[@timothywing8604]

Took me three years to fully understand my 1926 Otis freight elevator (very similar to yours, in most respects)... And mine was working! Also, the elevator mafia is a thing. Learn as much as you can about doing the maintenance and repairs yourself! Everytime a safety switch fails, you'll be looking at about $5000!

[@brickandsole]

will do.

[@johngermain3535]

Make sure you put rubber ice seal under the valley that will seal around the screws

[@brickandsole]

I'll have to look that up. Writing it down. Cheers!

[@ppetry2402]

Loved getting roof status and so great you have a lot of followers with expertise , lol on your ketchup

[@brickandsole]

It has been amazing all of the great advice. Need to do a quick mirror check in the future. haha.

[@MK-Farm-Michigan]

Best to call the company who made the elevator first. See if they have the name of the company who installed it, or the electrician who installed it. The black roof is either a rubber roof or a tar roof. Done by professional roofers.

[@brickandsole]

Someone mentioned they are actuallys still in business today!

[@RichardTomson]

Found your channel yesterday. Because I am looking at a factory in the same price and size in Sweden. Needed inspiration or realization to what I'm up for. A hangout place was the first thing I was thinking of. So fun that all guys want the same thing. 😎 Keep up the good job / new subscriber

[@brickandsole]

You should definitely do a channel then. This one has brought a bit of income which is helping a lot. If you do let me know!

[@RichardTomson]

@@brickandsole I was thinking of it. And tell the full concept of my business I'm going to have there. Selling outdoor furnitures from an outlet. So I buy repair then sell. So could be interesting to watch perhaps. I'm going to look at the place tomorrow. So I'll let you know. 😀👍

[@joereedsmith1531]

Thats a home made squigee whats it called for cleaning carpets. theres all sorts of stuff in that room thats got nothing to do with the elvator. That roofing material, my my, thats used for siding here, not allowed for roofing. Someones put a cheap roof on it and its lasted 10 years is what it looks like.

[@janice8948]

My guess is that long stick in the attic is used to push snow off the roof 💖💖💖

[@brickandsole]

yeah, the original roof under the metal one most likely!

[@christophersielski1388]

Chris, Since you showed a couple of ceramic resistors on the elevator controls, it is quite possible that it has or had a reduced voltage reversing starter system. A lot of high load, 3 phase motors use a reduced initial voltage and switch to full voltage as the motor spins up. This is done to avoid very high initial current draw. This can be quite complex, but it is possible the system was altered during its life and simplified. You really need elevator technicians to scope it out.

[@brickandsole]

Thank you for the lesson/knowledge. It will never be legal again, I am wondering if I should sell it to a collector or a museum and just put a super powerful winch up there since it will be freight only anyway. But then again, Id never be able to get it out for sure.

[@christophersielski1388]

I agree about the "legalities". Something that old would be a big headache as far as certification and inspections that insurance requires. The expense to repair it is also a consideration. Industrial components and non-donated labor are costly these days.

[@Flower3394]

On your roof you can use the stuff that you can use on mobile homes. Its a white liquid. That you can use a paint roller. It comes in a giant bucket. It fills cracks and seals it. Its like a liquid rubber. They also have liquid aluminum. But i heard that stuff ruins your shoes and rollers etc. Since you have a large roof. I wouldnt do the entire roof. It would be expensive. But you can track where the leaks are and roll that on. My guess is the leaks is where the spots are that look like its been treated already. Or seams or where the bolts are. You could also go with the white flex seal for roofs too. Probably more expensive cause of the name flex seal. As far as your elevator. I would seriously have the company come in and access it. Give you a cost to get her fixed. I think that would help you get the building cleared out faster. Just my opinion though. We have those elevators here too but buy a different company. I know i rode in one with the old original electrical stuff. It was slow as molasses in January. And it was Jerky. But fun. Just like those round sinks u have in the bathrooms. I loved using that. Little soap dispenser at the top. Foot pedal at the bottom to make it work.

[@brickandsole]

the problem is that the high winds shift and "move" the metal and other stuff has cracked at the joint. So I am thinking a mechanical solution like a lap joint might be a good option. The sinks are awesome for sure!

[@moonshinefuel]

I was thinking the roof was A LOT worse than it is, it looks really good overall just needs the work you indicated, that could be a whole lot worse my friend. The roof is very very good all things considered. You lucked out there, yea it's gong to take a little work but its all there and looks awesome actually.

[@moonshinefuel]

I fixed similar roofs in the past and it's not difficult you can for sure take care of that yourself, not that complicated as some may want to make it seem, just a little proper planning and materials. Just a little more area to cover that's all it is.

[@brickandsole]

Hi moonshine fuel glad to see you back. There is still some damage inside from before the metal roof was on, but all manageable, otherwise I never would have bought it.

[@darlacox301]

👍👍👍 that is really old 😊😊😊

[@brickandsole]

older than me. that's old!

[@MrJeep75]

Need to find a manual on that stuff

[@uncledanthetrainman]

Thankyou so much mate . I absolutely loved this video!!! It has made my day. I hope u can gain the knowledge in the motor room. it’s amazing to see your dedication , keep it up loved the vid 👌🏼

[@brickandsole]

Thank you Uncle Dan, appreciate the kind words!

[@MrJeep75]

Silinoid is a electric switch

[@limelightcinemagroup2148]

Sorry Chris about that you can take it if they want to do a forensics scan that would bring out the ink that's on the report

[@brickandsole]

I'll look at it closer and see if there is anything I can't read.

[@judyberry5492]

Chris, good luck with your endeavors!!!

[@brickandsole]

Thank you Judy! I appreciate the kind words!

[@inzieoscar]

There are places that are able to fully reveal what is on that plaque. I don't remember the name of the process, but I've watched it being done on Curse of Oak Island.

[@brickandsole]

I think I can discern most if not all with a magnifying glass.

[@urbanurchin5930]

@@brickandsole ....but, as the previous commenter stated, the elevator company in Quincy is still in business - their archives might have copies of the originals.

[@urbanurchin5930]

Ha Ha - - I had to laugh about the ketchup on your lip. I noticed it before you made a note of it - but it was still funny. When I was a kid....maybe 8 or 9 years old - we had this family that lived next door to us The kids in that family were all quite a bit younger than my brother and me. Every once in awhile - after dinner - and everyone was outside playing, we would make a comment about that we knew what the had for dinner. When we told them, "you guys had spaghetti for dinner" they were surprised ( !!! ) "how did you know" ? Because it is written all over your face ! I think we made the same comment for a couple of years after that.....those kids REALLY were the slobs in the neighborhood ! thanks for the memory !

[@dane-my1qo]

Right there in that 1 box with the three fues is the three faze your looking for

[@brickandsole]

Nice tip! it looks like the oldest box so that would make sense.

[@urbanurchin5930]

@@brickandsole ......don't know if I would trust ANYONE that can't spell "phase".......

[@trufix72]

Be careful cause it looks like those fuses will have electricity if they are live. I seen your hand get close to them.

[@brickandsole]

I have since acquired and use a meter to test. I know even if the power is out that things can hold a charge. Thanks for having my back.

[@a4000t]

Hollister and Whitney on youtube: kzbin.info/door/v-3QKcboldyqEbo5KZ9BRAvideos

[@brickandsole]

We have been in touch and got the original schematics which are really cool but leave some questions unanswered. they don't make them like they used to.

[@MrPuckchaser]

I would imagine there is someone that would be able to come in and rewire the motor to a new switch and available power to be able to bypass the old electrical components

[@brickandsole]

That would be amazing. I need to get the ground floor totally rewired and up to code and hopefully go from there.

[@MrJeep75]

Those are contact switches on that slate

[@steelrain4362]

I’m going to guess, and say that homemade tool thing you found might have been to push snow off the roof.? Just a guess

[@brickandsole]

maybe from the flat roof before the metal roof was on. That might make sense.

[@billsrq1788]

Hello from Siesta Key Florida

[@brickandsole]

Hello Bill!

[@jacqueschaillet7913]

Hello, for a powerful motor the three-phase power supply is ideal, if you can keep this power supply.

[@brickandsole]

the city is good with the 3 phase we had. we didn't actually even know the had it for a while.

[@Davett53]

Hey! Morning greetings!..........a rare moment where I am up early,.(well sorta early). I guess its not really early.

[@brickandsole]

welcome to the land of the living

[@kimberlydavis2754]

A solenoid is the component to release the break

[@brickandsole]

Now I know! that does sound like it could be rebuilt then. Cheers!

[@poussin483]

I think it's better to start from the beginning,you don't want your building to ended up in fire. All need to be done,maybe only the motor can be reused.

[@brickandsole]

I think I'll install an electric hoist big enough. It will never be legal for people anyway.

[@dane-my1qo]

They have this stuff cauld roofing muck u. Brush it on does samething alot cheap et

[@brickandsole]

There is a bunch of tar/roofing cement there now, but it cracks and separates because that roof tends to move with wind etc. Previous applications worked in some places but not on the main seams.

[@dane-my1qo]

@@brickandsole Thank you. It seems like the way you mentioned is the best way. I was a volunteer firefighter when I turn 40 I can't do heights no more really weird I can't do ladders before I had no problem so I don't do roofs

[@MrJeep75]

Thats a ballist resistor ceramic

[@dombutler7685]

Hey Chris, the roof does not look too bad at all, my guess is the roof valley is too small and does not go far enough under the roofing sheet and you would be better off replacing all the roof bolts with newer/better ones. I like the elevator room, is that the old motor in the corner? None of the switchgear and wiring is usable, but you will need an expert opinon and not just a qualified jukebox engineer! lol!

[@brickandsole]

Yeah, That is exactly what I was thinking on the roof. I might just replace the elevator with an electric hoist. Since people can be transported in it anyway. i thought it was a replacement but may have be the old one replaced. Thanks Dom.

[@cbpotts]

I’ve a height phobia. You were killing me. 😬. PS - is that homemade tool for pushing snow off the roof?

[@l.m.2404]

I was thinking that it could push snow or pooling rain water. Great minds think alike. :)

[@brickandsole]

likely it was from before the metal roof on the old flat roof.

[@brickandsole]

i think for the old flat roof to push of pools. I don't go near the edge. I couldn't move my feet from paralysis if I did. LOL.

[@mot322]

Ok this sounds a tax crazy but on another channel a woman who deals with ephemera. says that you can clean paper by rubbing it with slices a white bread. It will clean the elevator book pages without damaging. I have not tried it yet but you might want to try.

[@brickandsole]

There is an unexpected trip. I'll check it!

[@ildikotimmons5519]

Ur so awesome 🎉

[@jitmasterdan]

Throw solar up on that roof, you'd have your very own money making power plant

[@davidgrenis638]

YOU TALKED ABOUT ANOTHER BROWN-SHOE BUILDING THAT'S WAS TURNED INTO A SCHOOL 🏫 FOR HANDICAPPED KIDS AND THAT IT'S NOW BEING TORN DOWN SO THAT ALREADY PROVIDE YOU WITH THE PARTS YOU NEED FOR YOUR ELEVATOR DAVID ADAM GRENIS MAPLETON AVENUE BOULDER COLORADO USA

[@brickandsole]

Yes, but he wants to sell the whole thing, not just the parts I want. I have some videos about the elevator coming soon I hope.

[@davidgrenis638]

ALL YOU NEED IS A LOT OF 5 GALLON BUCKETS OF WHITE LIQUID ROOF COATING FROM HOME DEPOT OR FOR FROM LOWE'S AND MAYBE LOTS OF TUBES SILICONE CALK DAVID ADAM GRENIS MAPLETON AVENUE BOULDER COLORADO

[@marilynhemingway5219]

Are you still planning on bringing antiques from Poland? Funny that I have roots in Poland you got me intrigued right from the start. My 3rd great grandparents came from Poland before when it was still part of Russia. At least that was what I was told. No actual proof.

[@sparks869]

I think he's said he wants to secure the building before importing container fulls of furniture.. Roof, windows, and emptying out the building

[@brickandsole]

Poland was under the sphere of influence of the Soviet Union, never was Russia or Soviet Union, but definitely had the same party system etc. And they were kind of split into parts at one point. I do want to import a container this year and if I am able to sell the stuff it will help with the renovation effort. Some day in the future I'd love to have a show room in the building.

[@limelightcinemagroup2148]

Hi Philip Klein from extreme antique HuntersHollister and Whitney report you take to some who do for us do a scan of the report what forensic scanner

[@brickandsole]

Thats an idea, I think it is mostly legible with the eye, its just faded and dusty.

[@patriciamoss2987]

What are you going to do with the building? I am confused about your plans.

[@brickandsole]

I want to do a showroom for antiques, i have many options in mind, rent space out, do something community oriented, maybe architectural salvage, wedding reception venue, but all of that is still a long ways off.

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

Roofs should really be done by a roofer. It’s what they do. Find a local company or two and get some estimates for what you want done. If you want this building to last for your son, cheap is not always the best way to go.

[@brickandsole]

thinking about hiring a retired roofer to oversee while I do the work.

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

That’s even better!

[@christinerobinson9372]

Cables. '57.

[@christinerobinson9372]

Let an expert painting restorer clean that plaque.

[@brickandsole]

I heard you can clean it with white bread. Might try that first. Then send it to a specialist.

[@peterholmesgavleman]

G’day from Western Australia. I’m h add lf way through this video & have a couple of thoughts/suggestions for you to consider. 1) what a find you have made regarding the information sheet for the lift elevator equipment. As you say, it’s a pity it’s dirty and partially unreadable. If you’re planning to display it somewhere, perhaps take it to a antique restorer, specialising in art or documents, and they may well be able to improve the quality of the messages. Then to prevent further deterioration, insert it into a glass covered wooden frame, such as one of the smaller windows that you have found around the site. 2) as much as you are probably a very handsome man, I’ve noticed that you speak a lot about the things you see around you and what you’re planning to do with them, however, I reckon it would be great to see more of the the building and its content than your face. No disrespect intended, but we are getting the verbal message but that would probably mean more to us if we could see more and more of the building’s and the good and otherwise contents of each floor. I suppose the messages a picture is worth 1000 words. I commend you for the great commitment. You are giving to this massive project and wish you all the luck. Peter.

[@brickandsole]

Thanks all Take that under advisement. And will definitely preserve the document. Cheers!

[@tbirdracefan]

I dont think it something quite as easy as just figuring out what's wrong with the elevator. It's my understanding that elevators require yearly inspections. Not sure the reason, possibly insurance driven. I think you need to get some guidance from some people in the elevator industry. Perhaps contacting the nearby maker of the elevator? They might have some people that would be very interested in seeing their legacy equipment and you could find out a lot of good info there.

[@brickandsole]

I'll look into that. I think it only needs to be inspected if people get on it. bringing trash up and down and other freight I think would be okay. But I am just speculating. need to look into it.

[@dane-my1qo]

That blue wire crimp DOES Not belong there some body was in there that shouldn't have been. You need to get a electrical done right you can get it working again

[@lkchild]

Theres a youtuber called Howard Payne who’s an expert in elevators, and could probably do a collab. Either way, he’d probably be a good source of advice.

[@brickandsole]

ooh, nice. thanks, I'll check him out. Cheers!

[@royfranssen8315]

Zou ik gewoon een motor veranderen en dan kan je die gewoon met een ander afstammelingen die gebruiken

[@brickandsole]

elektrische takel zou werken

[@cokeysnose375]

Ayy cool video

[@brickandsole]

Thanks, old stuff is cool. So I guess I'm cool.

[@cokeysnose375]

@@brickandsole LOL yes!

[@joereedsmith1531]

The data plate on the motor tells the story, ordered on 17.4.1918 so would have been installed as new in 1919. Hollister Whitney, there is a YT channel of that name, I suggest you have a look. Whoever owns it, knows about what you have. If he cant help you I bet he knows who can. I see lots of old relays, contactors, insulators, and so on from that time period. Only a specialst knows whats live and whats not. 90% may be unused and bypassed, maybe not, who knows. If its working, dont touch it yourself. Now I hate to sound like a whinger, but please dont go poking wires with your hands. 100 year old buildings have had 100 electricians, professional and amateur work on them. You just dont know for a fact whats live and whats not. Even if you disconnect the building from the overhead mains, there can still be a sneaky underground supply coming in. Maybe theres a kindly sparkie watching these who lives near who can have a look. You can buy a tester for 20 bucks, like a screwdriver, lights up if things are live. Get one of those and poke with that.

[@brickandsole]

I heard they are still in business today. Yes, I got scolded for that, so I'll take that advice for sure. 20 bucks is worth it!

[@davidgrenis638]

YOU'RE FAR BETTER TO USE THE WHITE LIQUID ROOF COATING THAT IS NOT MADE OUT OF TAR I WILL TELL YOU WHY THERE'S A SMEEM THE MANUFACTURERS WILL HAPPILY ROLL OF FULL LENGTH PIECES BUT WHOEVER DID THE JOB DIDN'T HAVE A LONG ENOUGH TRAILER OR DIDN'T WANT TO DEAL WITH FULL-LENGTH PICES

[@jry354]

Please stop touching fuses that are there with your bare hands. Please pick up a amp metre and use the metre to check voltages before you touch with your hands you are going to blow your hand off one of these days

[@brickandsole]

I'll keep it in mind thanks for having my back.

[@GWAR1982]

Just get a pair of good shoes and never touch two at the same time.

[@bearhardcorepicker]

I don't envy our battle with water...have had several wars with water leaks in the past.

[@brickandsole]

Not easy win to bear. Not easy to win.

[@marksmith-ew7ir]

Concreate float Don't throw any electric box stuff away until a lift engineer looks at the part's

[@brickandsole]

Noted! Thanks.

[@ReverendLinc]

Time to call an elevator repair guy and see what they say. What can it hurt ?

[@brickandsole]

I heard there is one or two old timers around but they are retired. It's a small town.

[@ryangilbert5916]

The plug on the board in the elevator room is called and octal relay base at some point someone replaced an old relay with a modern one. The broken ceramic piece by the heat sink is a power resistor most likely for the breaking circuit so the elevator slows down at each floor without jerking to a stop. The other controls are a huge reversing contactor for the main motor Wich looks like about a 50hp 3 phase motor. The rest of the controls are for the operation of the elevator like the switches that automatically stop the elevator on the correct floor. None of this is safe anymore and no parts would be available. An elevator company would have to be brought in to update the controls for legality reasons then state inspector has to sign off on it and 3 phase power would most likely be required but is possible on single phase but would be cost prohibitive. I would call in the elevator company that installed it as they are still in business. I wouldn't worry about tracking where the power is coming from as all of it is to old to use again. Also be careful with that old wireing as it could be wrapped in asbestos. Good luck with the roof

[@brickandsole]

Yeah, I am sure it will never transport people again, but using it to bring stuff down from the third floor would be amazing.

[@brickandsole]

Also thanks for the info!

[@royfranssen8315]

U om de rem los te maken die hendel en die box is ook van de rem

[@brickandsole]

dat is wat anderen me vertelden. ik heb een professional nodig om ernaar te kijken

[@colleenvarlow8764]

Hi there. You need a knowledgeable person to come and fix the elevator. It ain't me. Any takers in You Tube land? Fascinating equipment though.

[@brickandsole]

Up up and away!

[@santamonicajane]

You need a 100yo mechanical/electrical engineer to come to your building and explain everything.

[@brickandsole]

That is exactly what I need! Lol.

[@sparks869]

If this 1912 Elevator can run, I don't see why Chris' Elevator can't run... kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqWkhJ2khZh2eMk

[@brickandsole]

COol. I wonder where he is located.

[@melissahalbert9455]

Sorry but all of that looks like the makings of an electric chair!!!

[@brickandsole]

I have to agree! Maybe I should sell it to a prop house!

[@kevinwassellsr.5646]

Take a loan Sell your car Don't try fixing that roof yourself That's a job for professionals Sorry

[@brickandsole]

Think I'll hire a retired specialist to guide me and watch me do the work. LOL.