Looking for advice

[rgsparber]

I have a procedure for removing a heavy and expensive frame from a wall. I’d like to know if you see anything dangerous in this procedure or a simpler way to do it.

Based on past comments, I plan to anchor the 2 by 4s into drywall and not metal studs.

This frame is in a hallway about 3’ wide.

https://rick.sparber.org/WhatCouldGoWrong.pdf

Thanks!

[Frank S]

For my 2 cents, as you mentioned this frame is said to be priceless. Given that information, personally I would hesitate to attempt to drill holes in it no matter how unobtrusive their location may be. My worry ab out doing so is the possibility of my inadvertently and intentionally somehow causing a non-repairable devaluation.

I would consider looking into the prospect of fabricating some form of encapsulation structure. Possibly constructed out of thin formed metal. My idea would be to use either steel or aluminum flashing material formed into a "Z" shape or possibly a "C"for the sides if one leg could be guided behind,and possibly a "C" for the bottom and if possible, to slip the top of the structure over the top a "C" there as well if it is possible to guide one leg of the "C" shape behind the frame from the top. The structure could be pop riveted together where the sides plus the top and bottom intersect with each other and stiffening members attached to the sides near the top to serve as locations to attach the chain falls. As for the means to support the frame as it is being lowered by the hoists in my opinion only rather than attaching 2x4's above the frame I would lean a couple 2x4's against the wall off to either side of the frame with a header attached to the top of them basically creating half of an "A" frame utilizing the gravity and the wall itself as the 2 missing legs of and "A" frame. Thereby the hoists can be connected to the header allowing the encapsulated frame to be safely lowered to the floor. This method has been incorporated by museums handling priceless often times very weighty artwork for hundreds of years. I have in the past used a method very similar to what I described to lower mechanical assemblies weighing in the 1000's of pounds.
I hope I have provided at least a little bit of hopefully clear enough and useful information to be of service to you my friend.

[rgsparber]

Frank,

Thanks for the great information. The 2 by 4s leaning against the wall are a big improvement.

“Priceless” is a confusing term. If someone got hurt, that would be far worse. I’m already drilling 2 holes to pass wires so adding 2 more is minor. There would be hell to pay if I dropped this frame but these small holes will not be noticed. It is not an antique or something that would later be sold. I’d say it has sentimental value.

Thanks!
Rick