Ep 6. Rocky Mountain Rigging

The episode "Rocky Mountain Rigging" from season 2 of World's Toughest Fixes takes us to the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, where a team of experts is faced with the challenge of installing a massive steel tower to support a ski lift. The tower, weighing over 40 tons and standing 115 feet tall, has to be lifted into place on a steep slope with limited access and extreme weather conditions.

The episode follows the team of engineers, riggers, and crane operators as they prepare for the intricate and dangerous task. They have to carefully plan and coordinate every step of the process, from transporting the tower pieces up the mountain to assembling them on site. The tower itself is made up of dozens of steel sections, each weighing several tons, that have to be bolted together precisely to form a stable structure.

To lift the tower into place, the team uses a massive 500-ton crane that has to be positioned on a narrow ridge line. They also have to set up a complex network of pulleys, ropes, and winches to control the movement of the tower and ensure its alignment with the foundations. The crew faces many challenges along the way, including unexpected problems with the crane and slippery conditions on the mountain.

Throughout the episode, we get a close-up view of the different techniques and tools used in the rigging and crane operations. We see the engineers using sophisticated software to simulate the lifting process and calculate the stresses on the tower and the crane. We also witness the precision and coordination required to manipulate the crane's multiple hydraulic controls and synchronize the movements of the rigging crew.

As the tower rises higher and higher, the tension and excitement build up among the crew members. They know that any mistake or miscalculation could have disastrous consequences for the project and their safety. Yet, they keep their focus and determination, relying on their training, experience, and teamwork to complete the job.

In the end, the tower is successfully installed, and the ski lift is ready to transport thousands of skiers and snowboarders to the top of the mountain. The crew celebrates their achievement with a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that they have accomplished one of the toughest fixes in the world.

"Rocky Mountain Rigging" is a thrilling and informative episode that showcases the ingenuity, skill, and bravery of the people who work in the rigging and crane industry. It gives us a glimpse into the challenges and complexities of such projects and highlights the importance of safety, planning, and communication in achieving success. Whether you're interested in engineering, construction, or extreme sports, this episode delivers a fascinating and engaging story that will leave you inspired and awed.