On Sun, 8 Apr 2001, Brian Chase wrote:

> Once you get the VAX inside of the truck and settled neear the back,
> you'll need a 9/16in or a 14mm crescent wrench to lower the feet on the
> VAX in order to stablize it for the trip.  I hit some really bumpy roads
> and a number of hills on the way back home, but the VAX didn't tip over.
> These systems didn't have disk drives either, with an RA90 or the SA7x
> style drive arrays, you'll have an even lower center of gravity on the
> VAX.  A definite plus for stability.

You _really_ want to secure the computer with loading straps under
tension. If it starts moving you can easily loose control. Load it against
the front loading beam and use 2-3 straps to keep it there. The leveling
feet are really not enough to secure a computer of this size during
transport.

> Now, taking one of these systems down a staircase... good luck.  It's
> going to take more than a few people, unless you setup a very clever
> system of pulleys which gives you an appropriate mechanical advantage, or
> maybe a winch to help lower the VAX slowly.

You could talk to the companies installing oil/wood furnances in
residential buildings. They are usually good at getting heavy things about
this size down stairs. Otherwise, lay it on a sleigh (loading pallet or
similar) tie it down good and slide it down. My personal favourite is
disassembling/reassembling vaxen. You learn a lot but there is always the
risc you won't get it back togeather again. If you don't feel comfortable
stripping it, removing all power supplies can make a huge difference.

Peter
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