A portable cable hoist mechanism is provided which incorporates a wheel mounted base structure having base legs that are capable of being unlocked and folded or otherwise moved to an out-of-the-way position for storage or handling. The base forms a framework to which the extendible base legs are movably secured. Latch members fixed to each of the base legs are projected through latch receptacles in the base framework when the base legs are fully extended. Locking elements establish locking engagement with the respective latch elements to secure the base legs at the extended positions thereof.