Well lid to heavy?

Question

Here's an odd question:

The original lid for our well was falling apart and was too flimsy anyways since we live on top of a hill. The wind is very punishing. I built a new lid...shingles and all, but it's too heavy to lift (but heavy enough the wind won't lift it off). It's about 5' by 5' and sits over the well. Does anyone have an ingenious idea that could be used to lift a heavy well lid from one side?

Thanks!

A prybar is not an option either...it would damage the lid and would only give me a few inches. It needs lifted 3'-4' so I can get in.

I think some are confused....the lid is already on the well. I just need to be able to prop up one side on occasion, without breaking my back, so I can get inside for maintenance.

Answer 1

You can put in 2 posts in concrete on one side then use a counter weight and cable arrangement across a pulley to raise and lower it. I suggest 2 counter weights and 2 pulleys runing from the corner to the top of post on each side.

Answer 2

Build a ramp on one side and use a lawn tractor or even your car to pull it up the ramp. Once it is on top of the well, jack it up, one side at a time, until it is as high as you want it.

I was going to joke with you and say, get a parachute and let the wind blow it up the ramp. When it gets over the well, cut the cords. HAHA

Answer 3

if your situation is such that you can put pipes under the structure and straddle the well at the same time, keep placing pipes in every foot apart and roll it ove the well untill you get it there, then remove the pipes one by one and walah...its on.
next to consider, how mudy is it determines the size of the pipes to use that will roll with out sinking.
another asspect is to place perpendicular boards on the ground like tracks and roll the pipes on that to get you there.
this does work and will take the place of ten men.

Answer 4

prybar