Hands-free bail-elevator locking device with combined power/control connector, bail spreader and method for use

A method and apparatus for raising or lowering a tubular in a well wherein bails are conventionally coupled to elevator ears and locking assemblies secured to the outer sides of the lower bail eyes for remote controlled clamping to nipples integral with and extending from the elevator ears. The locking assemblies contain upper and lower jaws which, by a remotely controlled actuator, move in linear relation to each other and have concave clamping surfaces which join together to form a circular opening for receiving the elevator ear nipples. The nipples have enlarged diameters at their distal ends to prevent removal from the closed jaws. A remotely controlled link spreading mechanism spreads the bails to accommodate an elevator. Elevator ears may contain internal conduits for communication of power and control signals between the suspended elevator and the bails. The passages mate with a remotely actuated connector assembly.