Building a small jib crane can be a fun and rewarding project, and it can be a useful addition to any workshop or garage. A jib crane is ideal for lifting heavy items and can be used to lift engines, toolboxes, and other heavy items that are too large or heavy to lift by hand. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to build a small jib crane.
Step 1: Gather the Materials and Tools
Before starting to build the jib crane, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools. The materials you will need include:
- 4-inch diameter steel pipe - 5 feet-long
- 2-inch diameter steel pipe - 3 feet-long
- 2 1/2-inch pipe clamp
- 3/8-inch steel plate - 8 inches-long by 12 inches-wide
- 8 bolts with nuts - 3/8-inch diameter by 2 inches-long
- 3/8-inch steel wire rope - 25 feet-long
- 2 pulleys with mounting brackets
- 2 turnbuckles
- 4 shackles
You will also need the following tools:
- Welder
- Circular saw
- Drill with drill bits
- Socket wrench
- Hammer
- Tape measure
Step 2: Build the Stand
The first step in building the jib crane is to build the stand. To do this, you will need to cut the 4-inch diameter steel pipe to a length of 5 feet. Next, weld the 2-inch diameter steel pipe onto the top of the 4-inch diameter pipe at a right angle, forming a T-shape. Finally, use the 2 1/2-inch pipe clamp to hold the two pipes together securely.
Step 3: Build the Jib Arm
The next step is to build the jib arm. To do this, cut the 3/8-inch steel plate to a size of 8 inches-long by 12 inches-wide. Weld the plate to the top of the 2-inch diameter steel pipe, forming a T-shape. Drill two holes through the steel plate, spaced 6 inches apart, and insert the bolts with nuts through the holes.Next, cut the 4-inch diameter steel pipe to a length of 3 feet. Drill a hole through the center of the pipe, 2 inches from the top. Insert the bolt with nut through the hole, making sure that the nut is on the inside of the pipe. Weld the pulley mounting brackets to the top of the jib arm, on either side of the steel pipe.
Step 4: Install the Wire Rope and Pulleys
The next step is to install the wire rope and pulleys. Cut the 3/8-inch steel wire rope to a length of 25 feet. Thread one end of the wire rope through the pulley on the jib arm, and attach it to one end of the turnbuckle using a shackle. Thread the other end of the wire rope through the pulley that is mounted on the stand, and attach it to the other end of the turnbuckle using a shackle. Adjust the turnbuckles until the wire rope is tight.
Step 5: Test the Jib Crane
Once you have installed the wire rope and pulleys, you can test the jib crane. Use the crane to lift a heavy object, such as an engine or a toolbox, and make sure that it is lifting smoothly and that the weight is evenly distributed. If necessary, adjust the turnbuckles to ensure that the weight is properly balanced.
Conclusion
Building a small jib crane is a straightforward DIY project that can be completed using basic welding skills and a few tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can build your own jib crane and add a valuable tool to your workshop or garage. Remember to always follow safety guidelines when working with heavy objects and power tools.
