Frequently Asked Questions

The proper footing system is extremely important to guarantee a safe installation, which is why an onsite evaluation and using the proper material is crucial. We recognize the
importance of understanding the soil conditions of your property. Our team will analyze your specific needs and a footing system for your incline elevator will be planned accordingly.
Hillside Lifts uses 2” galvanized WT40 pipe for your footing system which is a high alloy steel and is the best in the industry. If working in sand, gravel or clay, the installation crew will drive your supports at least 7 to 12 feet down with a hydraulic pounder or until the required resistance is obtained. Our process of driving the pilings into the earth has very little or no impact on your hill, landscaping or environment, yet still provides the most secure structural system.
In rocky conditions, we will drill directly into the rock per engineered standards and set the supports in anchoring cement.
If there is additional cross bracing needed for uneven terrain, we will clamp around the structure using high grade u-bolts, which is preferred over drilling directly into the supports which may weaken the support system and allow corrosion to start.
Our hillside rail system is made of either 3”x3” or 2”x5” galvanized or powder-coated 11 gauge enclosed steel tubing depending on the specifications of your hillside. A c-channel rail system is not used since it allows for debris to build up inside the track. Our rail system can be flexible to work with all types of hillside’s and gives us the ability to contour to the gradient of the hill. Also the depth of our track system allows the cable to be suspended above the track and cross members to prevent cable wear.

Our traction drive system uses galvanized 5/16” cable that has a 9,800 lb. breaking strength and our drum drive units use 1/4” cable with a 7,000 lb. breaking strength. This type of cable is commercial grade and is used in the aircraft industry as well as for many other applications. It is virtually impossible for this type of cable to break in the application we are using it for.
You will have peace of mind knowing that if an over-speed is detected for any given reason while traveling downhill, our carriage will immediately come to a smooth, slow stop because of the over speed governor and spring dampeners we use to absorb the shock.

Hillside Lifts elevators meet or exceed the most current National Elevator Codes. Our systems include top and bottom landing controls which feature e-stop buttons.
Safety switches are included on our braking system which have endless advantages and are necessary for code compliancy. We also have a battery powered wireless technology and a
supervised signal that is a crucial component in the safety of your incline elevator. This means that your system will not operate if your carriage doors are open, which is an extra safety precaution, especially for small children.
Lastly, our incline elevators have multiple safety systems which include a slack cable switch on the hoist cable, electronic safety brake switch, and an over speed governor used to initiate a mechanical stop.

In most situations, yes, a 3 hp motor is more than adequate. In certain situations where the length, weight capacity or angle are to a higher degree, a larger motor may be necessary. Our tram systems have all been designed and engineered to meet the required safety factors. Once you receive an estimate, it will list the size motor that is sufficient for your project. If you prefer a larger motor size, that upgrade is available, but not usually necessary or required.

Service is Key. Not only do we offer a great warranty, but we also employ a full-time service staff that is available for general questions and service calls. Having certified service technicians on staff sets us apart from other tram companies.
You will choose an “every year” or “every other year” maintenance plan. Our technicians travel throughout the year completing these inspections and safety tests for a minimal fee to make certain that your system is running smoothly and safely year after year. We will take care of you and your lift long after your installation is complete.

Hillside Lifts offers the following warranty:

2 year comprehensive warranty on all parts and components
5 years on the motor, gearbox and brakes
20 years on the structure and pipe footings

Landing gates are the gates that are fixed to your upper and lower landing platforms or decks. Their purpose is to block the opening when the tram cart is called to the opposite landing. These gates are required by the elevator code and are necessary to pass the State inspection, where applicable. Landing safety gates are included in the cost of your overall system. Platforms can be constructed by the homeowner after the tram installation is completed or can be done by Hillside Lifts out of either aluminum, composite or pressure-treated lumber. If you choose to build your own landings, Hillside Lifts will supply you with the required or suggested specifications. If you choose to have Hillside Lifts take care of them, we will work with you on the preferred size and building material and will be built to elevator code specifications.