Q&A With Larry

Introduction:

At MV Lifts, every lift installation is a balance of precision engineering, teamwork, and experience, and few embody this better than Larry, one of our lead installation engineers. With years of hands-on expertise and a commitment to mentoring the next generation, Larry plays a vital role in ensuring each project is delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. In this day-in-the-life feature, we follow Larry through the essential checks, detailed processes, and technical decisions that make up a typical lift installation, from first delivery on-site through to final handover. Along the way, we gain insight into the tools, standards, and teamwork that set MV Lifts apart.

Technical Q&A – Lift Installation Engineer at MV Lifts – Larry

1. What are the key checks you carry out before starting a new lift installation on-site?
The first step, whether the shaft is a new build or an existing one, is to check that everything is square by plumbing down the shaft. Once the scaffold is in place, we drop lines and check all measurements against the lift drawings. We also ensure the entrances are plumb and square, recording any discrepancies. If measurements are slightly off, we make plans to work around the issues, as we can’t rebuild shafts.

2. How do you ensure the lift shaft meets all dimensional and structural requirements before fitting begins?
We start by marking out the pitch points for all beams and brackets from the top of the shaft. After installing the top bracket, we plumb down and mark out the remaining brackets accordingly. We then measure the nibs on each side of the entrance and check the entrance dimensions. The pit depth and headroom at the top of the shaft are also measured. These are all checked against the technical drawings. If there are any issues, we can sometimes make small adjustments, shifting the lift fitting within the shaft and repositioning brackets to suit. This process helps us determine whether the lift will fit correctly and flags any structural concerns before we proceed with installation.

3. Can you walk us through the sequence of installing a traction lift from delivery to handover?

• The first step is taking delivery of the lift components. We check for damages or missing items and place everything into the site container in reverse order, so the items we need first are most accessible.
• We plumb down the shaft and verify all measurements and squareness, as outlined earlier.
• The top bracket is set, followed by dropping lines and setting the bottom bracket. Remaining brackets are fitted according to the marked pitches.
• Once the guide brackets are in place, we clean the guide rails and begin fitting them from the bottom up, ensuring the guides are correctly “boned” for a smooth, safe, and stable ride. The guide tray is fitted first to seat the bottom guide.
• After the guides are installed and fishplates are double-checked for tightness on both the motor and single sides, we check the DBG (Distance Between Guides), which must be within a tolerance of around 4mm.
• Next, we fit the bedplate where the motor will sit, and using the appropriate lifting tackle for the motor size and weight, we lift and position the motor securely.
• Once the motor is installed, we build the counterweight, and the lift sling is positioned on top of the buffers. We then fit the overspeed governor and rope/belt and fix to the sling
• The lift is then roped from top to bottom, feeding around the motor and diverter sheaves. Once correctly clamped and tensioned, we test the motor and wire in the brake resistor. When everything is functioning correctly, we build the platform (car floor) onto the sling, once the scaffold has been removed.
• From the platform, we install shaft lighting, trunking, door frames, and landing doors—starting from the ground floor upwards. Some engineers prefer to build the lift car first and work from its roof, but I prefer working from the platform to avoid damaging the freshly painted car top.
• With shaft works complete, we move on to fitting the door gear and then install the car doors.
• Next is wiring the car and fitting out the car top. We then set the car to run correctly by positioning floor-level magnets on the guide rails. At this point, we’re nearly ready for testing.

There is a lot more to the installation, but this gives a brief outline of my approach.

7. How do you handle installations with tight timelines, especially in commercial or public-sector buildings?
Maintaining close contact with the site manager is essential. We keep them informed of our progress and any challenges we’re facing. At sites like universities, we’re often restricted to working specific hours. If we’re running over or can’t pause mid-process, we communicate clearly with site management. We’re also flexible with overnight and weekend working to comply with building requirements. Most installations are completed on time, often ahead of schedule, but in construction, unexpected challenges are common. That’s where teamwork makes the difference. A good assistant can anticipate what you need next, prep the next stage, and speak the same technical shorthand. Working like this saves huge amounts of time.

8. What makes a lift installation by MV Lifts stand out in terms of quality or attention to detail?
For me, attention to detail is everything. I strive for perfection in every install, and that mindset was instilled in me by the MV engineers who trained me. It’s about following a consistent process and ensuring each element of the installation is completed to a high standard. When you work like this, the result is a top-quality lift installation that both I and MV can be proud of. Positive feedback from management also reinforces that we’re doing things right, and that confidence carries forward into every job.

9. You’re responsible for mentoring future engineers. What’s that process like?
It’s a real honour to be trusted with training new engineers. It’s also a big responsibility; we need to ensure their safety at all times and teach them how to work safely and effectively. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them progress, but with that progression comes the moment when they’re ready to work independently. I recently handed over Cam, who’s now ready to work as part of a new pair of installers. I’ve now got a new trainee who’s very young, so we’re starting from scratch. Over time, we’ll develop our own working rhythm and shared terminology. That process does take time and can initially slow the job down, but it’s worth it. Ultimately, training someone from the ground up is hard work but deeply rewarding.

10. Are there progression opportunities available in your current role at MV?
Absolutely. I’ll soon begin training towards my Level 4 qualification and eventually aim to become a Lift Tester. Long-term, I believe I’d make a strong Project Manager. One of the great strengths of MV is that many of the office-based managers have hands-on lift installation experience. That practical background means they truly understand what’s involved in getting a lift installed on time and within budget.

Conclusion:

Larry’s approach to lift installation reflects the core values of MV Lifts: quality, attention to detail, and a deep respect for the craft. From overcoming structural challenges to mentoring future engineers, his dedication is evident in every stage of the process. Whether it’s hitting tight deadlines or ensuring compliance with industry standards, Larry’s knowledge and professionalism help deliver installations MV can be proud of, time after time. It’s this passion and expertise that continue to drive our reputation as one of the UK’s leading independent lift specialists.