Just looking at the 'money no object tools' thread.
I am wondering why some people seem to prefer the 4 post lift or the 2 post lift.
I would have thought that the 2 post would have been preferred because it is less 'in the way' and because the wheels are instantly off the
ground.
What am I missing?
Cheers
Mark
I'm a fan of four posters as that's what I've used the most. Usually with a set of 'free-wheel bars' and beam jack. They do take up more room but imho, are safer. I've seen a few incidents where vehicles have toppled off two-posters. If you're doing an engine change on a two poster, the balance goes out of the window once the engine is removed. Also, swinging on tight hub nuts and levering stuff needs extra care with a two poster. A four poster with 'free-wheel bars' can do most of what a two poster can do apart from a complete subframe assembly removal, so you'd use the beam jack. But that would get in the way if you were then removing the exhaust.....
I've been in the motor trade for 47 years now and have used all sorts of lifts . All of them have disadvantages but if I hade to pick one without any doubt it would be a two poster, properly used I have never seen any problems with cars falling off but there is always some idiots about , it has far greater access to the underside with only 2 disadvantages , door opening restricted and not being able to check suspension ball joints when loaded unless you use some sort of table. Beats any 4 poster for versatility
There a few occasions where a four post ramp would be better but for general maintaince 2 posters are much more practical... And usable.
quote:
Originally posted by owelly
I've seen a few incidents where vehicles have toppled off two-posters.
quote:
Operator should use care when working on vehicles that have an abundant amount of undercoating (lift pads may “slide”) or a significant weight imbalance of the vehicle may occur due to removal of an engine or transmission. Also, “HEAVY wrenching” may result in a vehicle shifting weight on the arm pads. We recommend the use of tall jack stands under the vehicle to add another layer of safety.
quote:
Originally posted by Slimy38
quote:
Originally posted by owelly
I've seen a few incidents where vehicles have toppled off two-posters.
Mmm, this never even occurred to me. I thought even 2 post lifts have 4 points of contact, but then having a look at an Ebay lift I saw this bit of text;
quote:
Operator should use care when working on vehicles that have an abundant amount of undercoating (lift pads may “slide”) or a significant weight imbalance of the vehicle may occur due to removal of an engine or transmission. Also, “HEAVY wrenching” may result in a vehicle shifting weight on the arm pads. We recommend the use of tall jack stands under the vehicle to add another layer of safety.
Two post lift is the one to go for in a small garage, a four post just takes up to much space.
Make sure you get one with nice long feet, ideally these will be longer than the arms when extended so you are not so dependant upon the garage floor.