Abstract: A method and apparatus for placing a pile and a pile cap includes a platform having a set of rail wheels, a tower having pairs of opposed arms which are configured to support a hoisting cable and rotatably mounted with respect to the platform. The apparatus may further include outriggers slidably mounted on opposite sides along the longitudinal axis of the platform, ground wheels oriented such that the axes of rotation are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the platform, and a rotating cutting blade movably mounted to the platform proximate the tower. The apparatus also includes a platform having a set of rail wheels, a tower with an arm having a slidably mounted hoisting cable and a slidably mounted counterweight, and a positioning mechanism to selectively position the counterweight along the arm.

Abstract: A system and method for replacing existing deteriorated piers of bridges in the same location as the existing pier, without the use of temporary bents comprising the steps of: installing one or more drilled shaft, preferably round, columns in the earth on opposite sides of the existing pier to be replaced transverse to the axis of the bridge; installing at least one temporary support bracket or embedded support beam on each of the columns; installing a temporary transverse girder onto the support brackets or beams of two columns; installing temporary support posts on the transverse girder; transferring the load from the pier to the temporary transverse girders once the columns have attained adequate strength; removing the pier to an elevation below the cap; constructing a new cap; transferring the load from the temporary girders to the new cap once the cap has attained adequate strength; and removing the temporary supports.