Clarance, you got me going again! I just feel that most everyone should have this handy, not expensive "tool" in the shop!
My first Little Mule is a manual model. what I like about it is the manual part/screw mechanism is relatively heavy and leans back offering a counter balance. I made the boom and it is retractable, and of course common sense tells me what is too much.
THis Impala seat was really heavy and requires 2 people struggling, but the mule works best with one person and effortlessly I can remove the seat one handed
THe second one, My Little Mule II is a hydraulic model. I really need to put some weights on the back wheels, but I eventually removed the "boom" portion.
With the boom off and using it the way it was made, it is capable of lifting 400lbs. So imagine lifting a patient weighing 300lbs, the unit is always built to handle much more than specified.
Here putting the large hood back on this mammoth Impala, I always would have to get Gary to help, but works better me alone with my Mule to maneuver and gently put the hood where I wanted it.
There are many models out there, including electric which could be a really nice. I Must say the wheels do tend to wear out, but are readily available on the internet.