Magnetic Manhole Lid Lifter

Allegro Magnetic Manhole Lid Lifter – Safe, Solo Removal of Covers Up to 36" Diameter

The Allegro 9401-25 Magnetic Manhole Lid Lifter is a professional-grade tool engineered for the quick and safe removal and replacement of manhole covers without assistance. Designed for utilities, construction, confined space, and sewer applications, it eliminates the need for pry bars and minimizes physical stress on the operator's back and body. The standard configuration includes a steel dolly with a single standard magnet rated at 660 lbs. lift weight for flat items and 330 lbs. for round items. Multiple accessory options are available to expand capability and adapt to job-specific requirements.

Technical Specifications

Available Items

Unlike traditional pry bar methods or hook-style lifters, the Allegro Magnetic Lid Lifter uses a powerful magnet to engage directly with the cover surface, allowing a single operator to break loose and move even the most stubborn lids safely. The dual-position lifting points accommodate uneven and textured manhole cover surfaces that would defeat a single fixed contact point. The collapsible design and compact folded footprint make it practical for crews working out of service vehicles with limited storage space.

Key Features & Benefits

Magnetic Engagement – No Pry Bars Required

The integrated magnet attaches directly to the manhole cover, eliminating the need for pry bars that can slip and cause injury. For safety, the magnet must be in contact with the cover before it can be engaged, preventing accidental activation.

Dual Position Lifting Points

Two adjustable lifting point positions allow the tool to access uneven and textured manhole cover surfaces that a single fixed point cannot grip effectively. This gives operators the mechanical advantage needed to break loose covers that have been sealed by corrosion, debris, or long-term settlement.

Collapsible Design for Easy Storage and Transport

The lifter collapses to a compact 36" L x 12.5" W x 11.675" H folded dimension, making it easy to store in a service truck or van. Crews can deploy and stow the tool quickly without dedicating significant cargo space.

Steel or Lightweight Aluminum Construction

The 9401-25 features a steel dolly for maximum durability in demanding field conditions, while the 9401-25A aluminum variant reduces unit weight from 52 lbs. to 45 lbs. for operators who prioritize portability. Both configurations deliver the same 660 lb. flat / 330 lb. round lift rating with the standard magnet.

Single-Operator Use

The tool is specifically designed to allow one person to safely remove and replace manhole covers without a second crew member. This reduces labor requirements on the job site and minimizes the ergonomic strain associated with manual cover removal.

Scalable with Accessory Options

Multiple accessories are available, including a Heavy Duty magnet upgrade (9401-26 / 9401-26A) that increases lift capacity to 900 lbs. flat / 450 lbs. round, and the 9401-33 Lifter Extension recommended when using the aluminum HD magnet configuration to break lids loose. Dolly-only models (9401-27 / 9401-27A) are also available for operators who source magnets separately.

Common Applications

Municipal Utilities Maintenance

Utility crews accessing underground infrastructure can remove and replace manhole covers quickly and safely without pry bars or additional personnel.

Sewer and Stormwater System Access

Sewer maintenance teams working in urban environments benefit from the tool's ability to handle covers up to 36" in diameter, covering the majority of standard municipal sewer access points.

Confined Space Entry Operations

The lifter supports confined space entry procedures by enabling controlled, safe cover removal that keeps workers clear of the opening during the lift.

Construction Site Utility Work

Contractors performing underground utility installation or tie-in work on active construction sites can use the lifter to access existing manholes without damaging surrounding pavement or cover hardware.

Compatible Materials

• Cast iron manhole covers
• Steel manhole covers
• Ferrous metal utility access covers with flat or round profiles
• Uneven and textured manhole cover surfaces (via dual position lifting points)
• Covers up to 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter

Product Documents

• Product Sheet – Allegro Utility Confined Space Safety Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can one person operate this lid lifter without assistance?
A: Yes. The Allegro Magnetic Manhole Lid Lifter is specifically designed for single-operator use, allowing one person to safely remove and replace manhole covers while minimizing strain on the back and body.

Q: What is the maximum manhole cover size this tool can handle?
A: The lifter is rated to move manhole covers up to 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter.

Q: What is the difference between the standard and heavy duty magnet configurations?
A: The standard magnet (9401-25 / 9401-25A) provides 660 lbs. lift capacity for flat items and 330 lbs. for round items. The Heavy Duty magnet (9401-26 / 9401-26A) increases capacity to 900 lbs. for flat items and 450 lbs. for round items.

Q: Is there a safety interlock on the magnet?
A: Yes. For safety purposes, the magnet must be in direct contact with the manhole cover before it can be engaged, preventing accidental activation away from the cover.

Q: Is the 9401-33 Lifter Extension required?
A: The 9401-33 Lifter Extension is specifically recommended when using the 9401-26A Aluminum Lid Lifter with HD Magnet to break lids loose. It is an accessory, not included with the standard 9401-25 configuration.

Q: What is the folded size of the lifter for storage?
A: When collapsed, the lifter measures 36" L x 12.5" W x 11.675" H, making it compact enough for storage in a service vehicle.