Abstract: Apparatus for hoisting a structural member including a load-distributing device with multiple strands depending therefrom secured to the structural member through hangers engaging A-frames in the structural member. The A-frames form truss structure imparting rigidity to the structural member, and have apexes adjacent the top surface of the structural member which the hangers engage.

Abstract: A tower crane and method of climbing the crane. The tower of the crane is initially stabilized at an elevated location, and the tower is released from a base frame supporting its base and elevated to place its base on an upper frame, the base frame is then elevated, and the tower is then dropped to place it on the newly positioned base frame with the upper frame then used to laterally stabilize the tower with the crane in operative condition.