Tool and method for use in supporting a sucker rod string in an oil or gas well

A method for supporting a sucker rod string and associated downhole pumping equipment on a tubing string inlet or an upper extension thereof, during preparation of a wellhead for suspension of an oil or gas well, the method comprising:

• a) lifting and supporting the sucker rod string and partially disassembling the wellhead to expose an uphole end of the sucker rod assembly;
• b) engaging a support tool to a portion of the uphole end of the sucker rod assembly, the support tool having:
• i) a lower narrow portion dimensioned to fit within the interior cavity of a tubing string inlet or an upper extension thereof;
• ii) an upper wide diameter portion defining a substantially horizontal landing surface dimensioned to rest upon the top edge of the tubing string inlet or the upper extension thereof;
• and
• iii) a central interior longitudinal cavity spanning the length of the tool, the cavity continuous with a longitudinal slot in the outer sidewall of the tool spanning the length of the tool, wherein the sucker rod is held within the longitudinal cavity and the longitudinal slot allows passage of the fluid or gas when the tool is supported on the top edge of the tubing string inlet or the upper extension thereof;
• and
• c) lowering the sucker rod string into the tubing string inlet or the upper extension thereof, until the lower narrow portion enters the tubing string inlet or the upper extension thereof, and the landing surface of the support tool rests upon the top edge of the tubing string inlet or the top edge of the upper extension thereof.