Investing in vehicle lifts can significantly enhance the functionality of your auto shop or garage. However, navigating through the multitude of brands and models in the market can be daunting, especially for beginners. To simplify the process, we've compiled a comprehensive guide featuring our favorite vehicle lifts, covering everything from two-post to four-post and scissor lifts.
So, sit back, relax, and let us assist you in this straightforward vehicle lift selection journey.
What is a Vehicle Lift? If you're already well-versed in this, feel free to skip ahead. Vehicle lifts are essential fixtures in service and repair bays, playing a crucial role in vehicle maintenance and repair tasks. Given their frequent use, lifts are indispensable in every shop.
The market offers a variety of lifts catering to different shops and clients. While the brand choice is subjective, understanding the types of lifts and their uses is key.
Two Post Lifts: Commonly acknowledged as the most prevalent auto lifts, two-post lifts feature two sturdy posts and supporting stabilization arms. They are cost-effective options for small shops or beginners entering the repair industry, known for their space-saving footprint. Symmetrical, asymmetrical, and versymmetrical variations offer different load distribution options. Versymmetrical lifts, in particular, are considered two lifts in one, accommodating various vehicles in the same service bay.
Despite differences among two-post lifts, they are ideal for servicing lighter vehicles, occupying minimal space. However, attention to detail is essential for precise vehicle lifting points.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective for newcomers to the auto shop world.
- Space-efficient.
Disadvantages:
- Time-consuming for setting four lift points on certain vehicles.
- Requires attention to detail due to kick-up frame sections.
Four Post Lifts: For heavy vehicle lifting, four-post lifts are the go-to choice. These lifts boast higher capacities compared to two-post lifts due to extra support columns. User-friendly and versatile, they cater to a broad clientele, from hobbyists to any-sized shop. Not requiring floor anchors is a notable advantage. However, for wheel service, investing in sliding bridge jacks is recommended.
Four-post lifts offer variety in lifting capacity, ranging from small vehicles to large trucks. Open front and closed front options provide flexibility based on the type of work you intend to do.
Advantages:
- Requires a 115-volt power supply, unlike 2 post lifts requiring 220-volt.
- More variety in accessories and weight capacities.
Disadvantages:
- Slightly pricier.
- May take up more space depending on the type.
Scissor Car Lifts: Scissor vehicle lifts encompass lifts using accordion-like mechanisms beneath the runways. Drive-on or four-arm style lifts fall under this category, with variations like X type, parallelogram type, and pantograph lifts. They come in different heights and capacities, suitable for both professional shops and hobbyists. Low-profile characteristics make mounting hassle-free.
Advantages:
- Depending on size and capacity, scissor lifts tend to keep a low profile.
Disadvantages:
- Slight tweaking may be necessary for frame-engaging style scissor lifts.
Portable Car Lifts: When space is a primary concern, portable car lifts come into play. These lifts offer space-saving solutions, making them suitable for garages or shops with limited space. However, opting for a portable lift may mean sacrificing some functionalities present in non-portable versions.
Advantages:
- Significant space savings.
Disadvantages:
- Limited functionalities compared to other lifts.
In-ground Car Lifts: Traditionally, in-ground lifts were standard in large shops, allowing vehicles to be hidden beneath the floor when not in service. Available in elevator or scissor lift styles, these lifts are advantageous for keeping the ground clear but come with a higher initial cost. Concerns about environmental impact and oil leaks have led to additional expenses and regulations.
Advantages:
- Vehicles can be stored underground when not in service.
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost.
- Difficulty in detecting oil leaks, requiring additional safeguards.
Mobile Column Car Lifts: Mobile column lifts provide added support for lifting large vehicles, allowing the addition or removal of more posts. Some advanced models feature wireless communication, enabling simultaneous lifting of multiple independent post structures. Primarily used in large shops, these lifts use lifting forks instead of runways.
Parking Lifts: Contrary to common misconceptions, parking lifts are not suitable for vehicle service, repair, or maintenance. These lifts focus on parking and feature a full drive-on deck supported by one or two posts, allowing parking another vehicle beneath.
Advantages:
- Efficiently doubles parking space.
Disadvantages:
- Cannot be used for service, repair, or maintenance.
Before purchasing a vehicle lift, consider factors such as space requirements, budget, and the type that best suits your needs. Assess ceiling height, concrete thickness, and power supply requirements. In upcoming articles, we will delve deeper into each lift category, discuss best sellers, explore essential tools for new shops, and highlight top brands.
For more information on vehicle lifts and automotive equipment, contact one of our industry experts and inquire about our current specials.
