Important Safety Information
Read and understand all instructions and warnings in this manual before operating the Harrington LB Series Steel Lever Hoist. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death.
General Safety Guidelines
- Always inspect the hoist before each use for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction.
- Never exceed the rated capacity of 1-1/2 tons (3,000 lbs). Overloading can cause hoist failure.
- Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and hard hat.
- Ensure the load is properly secured and balanced before lifting.
- Avoid shock loading. Lift and lower loads smoothly and gradually.
- Keep hands and body clear of the load and moving parts during operation.
- Do not use the hoist for lifting people or for any purpose other than its intended use.
- Ensure the attachment points for both the hoist and the load are strong enough to support the weight.
Warning Symbols
- DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
- WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
- CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
Product Overview
Introduction
The Harrington LB Series Steel Lever Hoist, Model LB015-15, is a robust and compact manual lever hoist designed for heavy-duty lifting, pulling, and tensioning applications. Its all-steel construction ensures durability while maintaining a manageable weight. This hoist is suitable for use in various industrial environments, including construction, mining, manufacturing, and general maintenance.
Key Features
- Positive Braking Action: Features a Weston-style load brake with two moisture-resistant brake pads and four braking surfaces, ensuring reliable load control.
- Rugged All-Steel Construction: Provides exceptional durability and strength.
- Enclosed Brake Mechanism: Protects internal components from dirt and moisture, extending operational life.
- Heat-Treated Gears: Machined, heat-treated, split load double reduction gears ensure long-lasting performance.
- Patented Freewheel Mechanism: Allows for easy and safe adjustment of the load chain without a load, safeguarding against accidental freewheeling under load.
- Ergonomic Grip: Equipped with a standard rubber grip on the lever for non-slip operation.
- Corrosion-Resistant Chain: Grade 100 heat-treated load chain is nickel plated for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Forged Alloy Steel Hooks: Heat-treated hooks are designed to open slowly without fracturing under excessive loads and rotate 360 degrees for versatile attachment.
Components
The LB Series Lever Hoist consists of a main body housing the gearing and brake, a lever handle for operation, a load chain, and top and bottom hooks for attachment.

Image: The Harrington LB Series Steel Lever Hoist, Model LB015-15, showing its compact design, lever handle, and load chain with hooks.
Setup and Installation
Unpacking
- Carefully remove the hoist from its packaging.
- Inspect the hoist for any visible damage that may have occurred during shipping. If damage is found, do not use the hoist and contact your supplier immediately.
- Retain all packaging materials for potential future transport or storage.
Mounting the Hoist
- Select a secure and structurally sound overhead anchor point capable of supporting the hoist's rated capacity plus the maximum anticipated load.
- Attach the hoist's top hook securely to the anchor point. Ensure the safety latch on the hook is fully closed.
- Verify that the hoist hangs freely and is properly aligned with the intended lifting path.
Chain Adjustment
The patented spring-loaded freewheel mechanism allows for easy adjustment of the load chain when the hoist is unloaded. To adjust the chain:
- Ensure there is no load on the hoist.
- Locate the freewheel lever or button (refer to specific model diagrams if available).
- Engage the freewheel mechanism according to the hoist's design (e.g., push a button, flip a lever).
- Manually pull the load chain through the hoist to the desired length.
- Disengage the freewheel mechanism to lock the chain in place. Always ensure the mechanism is fully disengaged before applying a load.
Operating Instructions
Pre-Operation Checks
Before each use, perform the following checks:
- Inspect the load chain for kinks, twists, wear, or damage. Replace if necessary.
- Check both top and bottom hooks for deformation, cracks, or excessive wear. Ensure safety latches operate freely and close properly.
- Verify that the lever handle is securely attached and free from damage.
- Ensure the brake mechanism engages and holds properly by testing with a light load.
- Clear the work area of any obstructions and ensure adequate lighting.
Lifting a Load
- Attach the bottom hook securely to the load. Ensure the safety latch is closed.
- Position yourself to operate the lever handle safely and effectively.
- Operate the lever handle with smooth, steady strokes. The load will lift with each stroke.
- Monitor the load's stability and ensure it remains balanced throughout the lift.
- Once the desired height is reached, ensure the lever is in a neutral position and the brake is engaged, holding the load securely.
Lowering a Load
- To lower the load, operate the lever handle in the opposite direction (typically by engaging a release mechanism or reversing the lever action, refer to hoist markings).
- Control the descent speed with smooth, consistent movements of the lever.
- Lower the load slowly and carefully to its resting position.
- Once the load is fully supported, release the tension on the hoist and detach the bottom hook.
Important Operating Notes
- Always operate the hoist with a firm grip on the lever handle.
- Avoid sudden jerking motions or rapid changes in direction.
- Never leave a suspended load unattended.
- If the hoist feels unusually difficult to operate, stop immediately and investigate the cause.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your Harrington LB Series Lever Hoist.
Regular Inspection
- Daily/Before Each Use: Perform the pre-operation checks detailed in the Operating Instructions section.
- Monthly: Conduct a more thorough inspection of all components, including the load chain, hooks, safety latches, brake mechanism, and housing for wear, corrosion, or damage. Check for loose fasteners.
- Annually: A qualified technician should perform a comprehensive inspection and service, including disassembly if necessary, to check internal components.
Lubrication
Lubricate the load chain periodically with a light machine oil or chain lubricant to prevent corrosion and reduce wear. Consult a qualified technician for internal lubrication requirements during annual servicing.
Storage
When not in use, store the hoist in a clean, dry environment, protected from dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Ensure the load chain is clean and lightly lubricated before storage.
Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your lever hoist.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Hoist not lifting load | Overload; Brake not disengaging; Damaged chain/gears | Reduce load to within capacity; Check brake mechanism; Inspect chain and internal components (contact service) |
| Load chain jamming or slipping | Kinked or twisted chain; Worn chain or sprockets; Improper chain alignment | Untwist/unkink chain; Inspect and replace worn parts; Ensure chain feeds smoothly |
| Lever handle difficult to operate | Overload; Lack of lubrication; Internal component damage | Reduce load; Lubricate chain; Contact qualified service technician |
| Load drifts after lifting | Worn brake pads; Contamination in brake mechanism | Have brake mechanism inspected and serviced by a qualified technician |
If you encounter a problem not listed here, or if the suggested solutions do not resolve the issue, discontinue use immediately and contact a qualified service technician or Harrington customer support.
Specifications
Technical data for the Harrington LB Series Steel Lever Hoist, Model LB015-15:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | LB015-15 |
| Capacity | 1-1/2 Ton (3,000 lbs) |
| Standard Lift Height | 15 feet |
| Lever Length | 10.4 inches |
| Hook Opening | 1.3 inches |
| Minimum Headroom | 13.2 inches |
| Item Weight | 26.8 pounds |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 13.5 x 7 x 5.5 inches |
| Chain Grade | Grade 100, Nickel Plated |
| Manufacturer | Harrington |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
Harrington products are manufactured to high standards and are typically covered by a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Specific warranty terms and duration may vary. Please refer to the warranty documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Harrington website for detailed information.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, parts, or warranty claims, please contact Harrington customer support directly. Have your hoist's model number (LB015-15) and serial number (if applicable) ready when contacting support to ensure efficient service.
You can typically find contact information on the manufacturer's website or in the documentation included with your product.