Hello, I have have an unusual request. I am interested in finding a hydraulic schematic diagram for a Raymond 20R30TN. I am also interested in a parts list, particularly of the lifting section (rollers, guides, cylinders parts, seals, motor, pump, etc). I want to acquire any spare parts that may wear out. The unit is 30 years old but seems to have been well maintained. It was used in a small factory till the week I purchased it. A copy of a service manual would be fantastic!

My wife is paralyzed from the shoulders down and confined to an electric wheelchair. I need an elevator to get her to the second floor of our house. I have quotes for $25,000 to $40,000 for a residential elevator. We just don't have the money and have only found grants of $5,000 to purchase one ( this will not even cover the majority of simplest lift we can purchase). I purchased this unit for $850. I should be able to build the complete elevator for $2,500 to $3,000.

I am a machinist, welder and have an associates degree in engineering. I have already built two small lifts but nothing with hydraulics. I do understand the basic idea ( have build a log splitter... two stage pump, pressure relief valve, control valve with flow to one end or the other of the cylinder and recirculating to the tank when in neutral ). This unit seems a lot more complicated that I imagined it would be. I want to go over the original diagram to see if I am missing anything.

I am separating the lifting parts from the body and drive sections. I am only interested in using the mast, cylinder and hydraulics. I am scrapping the rest.

If there is an expert on hydraulics who could give me advice on controls I would appreciate it also. Here is what I am thinking... Down is a simple solenoid valve ( 24 volts same as to run the motor), with a needle valve to limit flow ( thus speed). For up I would hit a button starting the motor. There would be a dump valve that would close ( so I don't start the motor under pressure). The fluid would go to the cylinder through a check valve to the cylinder. A limit switch would trip out the motor ( starter relay / contactor) when the elevator gets to the top. I would put a second limit switch ( possibly a second contactor or even a true mechanical disconnect... a cable pulling a fuse out of it's holder) as a "high limit in case the contactor welds it self on. Right after the pump, I would put in a pressure relief valve. This should be fairly simple. I will power the unit of two large storage (truck) 12 volt batteries to get 24 volts. This way the unit will work even if the power goes out ( and I can't imagine building a 300 amp power supply... I measured the lift motor at 265 amps so I estimate it to be 10 hp).

I will also incorporate safety switches to make sure the car is at floor level before allowing the door to open and that the door is shut (electronic latch or solenoid bolt) before the elevator moves. I want the unit to be safe.

One idea I am still "toying" with is the "bump" when the unit stops. By stopping the motor, there may not be much of a jolt. If there is, I am thinking about a valve to shut off the main flow at say 2" before the floor and then a second line bypassing this valve with a needle valve to regulate flow with say 25% floor for the last 2" of travel.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Mike