Abstract: A compression cap assembly for the end of a spreader bar or pipe used in lifting heavy loads with a crane includes a compression plate, spaced-apart plate members on the outer side of the compression plate that carry upper and lower pins that extend through loops on the ends of cables, and semicircular coupling members on the inner side of the compression plate that receive an end portion of the spreader pipe. The coupling members having clearance between the adjacent edges thereof, and fasteners are used to reduce the clearance and cause the coupling members to tightly clamp and grip such end portion.

Abstract: A lift apparatus is provided for raising or lowering objects through an opening in a ceiling which has associated ceiling supports, such as ceiling joists. The lift apparatus includes a frame, mounted to and supported by the ceiling supports, having first and second frame members, and a third frame member which extends between and is fixedly connected to the first and second frame members. A receptacle, for holding the objects and sized to fit through the ceiling opening, is fixedly connected to a movable guide mechanism slidably cooperating with at least one of the first or second frame members to allow substantially vertical movement of the receptacle between a retracted position, substantially above ceiling level, and an extended position substantially below ceiling level.