Look Who it Was Random video

An ancient 3 door hand crank American elevator plus a self service surprise in Midtown

3,676 views · Published 7 December 2011 · 4:54 · Indexed 3 October 2026

Channel: FL92002 · 2011 · Travel & Events

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We are still in Midtown Manhattan, where we are treated to a two for the price of one elevator ride.  The first elevator we are in is an old three door American Elevator Company hand crank traction elevator.  This elevator is not capable of self leveling and has a capacity of 3000 pounds.  All of the original fixtures are still in this elevator and the interior is rather ornate.  Whats interesting about this one is that the entire circle of the hand crank moves, as opposed to just the handle of the crank.  This elevator runs smoothly and makes very little noise.  Upon reaching the bottom floor, we have to open the gate and a pair of doors to exit.  Once we exit, we have a surprise in store: another elevator to ride.  This second elevator only goes one floor; from the basement to street level.  Of note, this is a self service elevator, so in theory, one could walk in from the street and use it without any questions asked.  This freight elevator, whose maker I am uncertain of, also has a capacity of 3000 pounds, but is cable driven.  In order to operate this elevator, you have to pull up on the cable to make it go down, and pull down on the cable to make it go up.  You will notice in the video that the camera shakes.  That is due to the elevator pitching as it crawls down to the basement and back up to street level.  Enjoy the sight of these two old elevators.  If you have any questions about the video, feel free to message me.  Comments are welcome.  The video was taken on November 29th, 2011.

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