Abstract: An apparatus and method for installing elevator shaft equipment includes utilizing an installing elevator to transport guide rail sections upwardly in an elevator shaft. The installing elevator includes an installing frame having at least one installation platform from which one or more movable parts can be retractably extended to change the size of the support area. Thus, the installing frame can be used for elevator shafts having different cross-sectional areas. At the completion of the shaft equipment installation, an elevator car is attached and the installing frame becomes part of the permanent elevator installation.