Repair Air Conditioner Riser

Tools:

workbench
miter saw
circular saw
multi-purpose reciprocating saw
power drill
hydraulic jack
strong rope
ratchet
level
hammer
pry bars
handsaw
gloves
safety glasses
2x6 and 4x4 boards
4-inch lag screws
bolts

1. Remove siding of support structure and assess the condition of the underlying boards.

2. Install temporary braces if necessary (figure A) and remove damaged or rotting boards along the base of the structure.

3. Measure and cut replacement boards using the miter saw. Drill pilot holes and attach new boards using screws.

4. Now move on to the top of the structure. In this case, Harrison lifted the a/c unit with a hydraulic jack while slipping in new pieces.

6. Secure the a/c unit with strong rope, then raise it from below using the hydraulic jack (figure C). Raise the unit a fraction of an inch, just enough to remove the boards supporting it.

7. Cut through nails holding old boards together using a reciprocating saw. Have a friend hold the unit so it stays balanced on the temporary support from the hydraulic jack while you attach new support boards (figure D).

8. Once the new top support boards are all in place, gently lower the a/c unit. Check to make sure it's level, then tighten the crossing 4x4 supports with lag bolts (figure E).

9. Remove temporary braces, hydraulic jack and rope.