Abstract: A manway handling apparatus for handling heavy sealing manways in large shells without damaging sealing surface means therefor is provided which includes a support arm pivotally mountable on equipment having elliptical manway access openings. The support arm when mounted is swingable toward and away from an access opening and carries a bearing block supporting bracket which is longitudinal adjustably positionable on the arm. A bearing block is vertically adjustably positionable in the bracket and slidably supports a shaft which is attachable to an elliptical cover. Structure is provided for longitudinally actuating and rotating the shaft to position and rotate the cover to facilitate installation and removal of the cover through the elliptical opening. The shaft carries structure means which when actuated by turning of a crank handle is effective for tilting the cover also to facilitate its installation and removal.