a tool for lifting and removing heavy lids , such as manhole covers and similar articles . the tool includes an elongate lever with a handgrip at the upper end and a pivot head at the lower end . wheels on the pivot head provide a pivot axis , with a hook being mounted in front of the pivot axis and a footplate being mounted behind the axis . the hook is inserted in an opening in the lid , and the lid is then lifted and removed by pulling back on the lever and stepping down on the footplate . after removal , the lid can be transported by rolling the assembly over the ground using the wheels . the invention thus facilitates removal and installation of heavy lids with minimal strain and potential injury to the operator .