Auto lifts

[Jessie_Scott_SF]

Do any of you have auto lifts in your shop? If so, two or four post? What's the weight capacity? Do you think auto lifts are worth the investment?

[Jim Meade / Iowa City]

I do not have an auto lift in my shop, but if I built a new one and I was younger I definitely would want one.  Far better than a pit.  Far better than a creeper.  Changing oil and servicing would be much easier and so would repairs.

If one doesn't keep a pickup all that long, maybe the lift isn't needed.  You end up having it serviced under warranty by the dealer.  But, if one keeps old equipment running, it's sure nice.

[Jim Meade / Iowa City]

What else can a car lift be used for?  Can you lift wagons up so that you can work on gear at chest height instead of squatting over?  Are there other uses for this kind of lift?  Could you put an adapter on it and use it for an engine stand, for example?

[Shaggy98]

When my BIL put up his now shop a few years back he installed a lift that was large enough to pick up his semi and also tandem axle straight trucks. He's never lifted these trucks high enough to actually walk under them, but just enough to raise them off the floor and remove the wheels, but he said fis lift is rated for it.

I've got another neighbor that installed a lift several years ago that is recessed in the floor. When the lift is not being used, everything is below the concrete surface and he has hinged access panels that he folds over the lifting cylinders so he doesn't lose any floor space. I'm sure this type of lift is more expensive, but if your in an area with limited space it might be something to consider.

[kraft-t]

I would probably have a shop with a lift in it for my son son in laws and grandsons if a lot wasn't so dag gummed high. They get $40K for apostage stamp sized lot. and it's hardly big enough for a shop.

[tractor12]

I have a four post lift in my shop. i bought it used and i think it is a 12,000# . It has the ramps you drive on , so not so good for tire or brake work unless you have the rolling jack between the wheels, and i do not, but you can still lift the wheel up with a bottle jack.  I really like it  and glad i bought it.  I have never had a wagon on it but i sure u could as long as u had enough overhead room. i dont know what they cost new cause i got it used, paid $600.  excellent for replacing brake lines, .

[farmer46]

I had a old one post in the middle lift, post in the ground, for about 30 years.  Then 2 years ago I purchased new a 2 post 10,000 lb lift and installed myself. Cost about $3000.  I can lift all , 1 ton pickups and van and even very low cars.  Since, I purchase high mileage vehicles for family and farm, but not much money, I can change trannys and brake work.  I love it and can't think of living without it. Just a word of warning, you will gain many friends.  

[SDFARMER75]

I built a new shop in 2012 and the only thing my dad wanted a decision on was putting in a hoist. We put in an Atlas two post lift at 12000 lbs. and it works really well. I was leaning towards a four post but decided they take up too much room. Actually positioned the lift in line with the overhead door so that if need be, when I drive a semi with trailer straight in, the tractor will go between the posts of the lift. Didn't think I'd need it that way much but already had to be tested the first winter! You won't regret a lift. Two or four post. If the four post,, make sure you have the space to give up and spend the money on the rolling jacks for it.

[clayton58]

Did you get a floor plate model or not?  and why did you choose Atlas?  Did you compare with other brand lifts?  I'm probably going to buy one in the next couple weeks for a new shop is the reason I'm asking about brands and models. TIA

[SDFARMER75]

Seemed like there are quite a few brands that are real similar in build but a couple of people in my area had the atlas and liked it. It was a little cheaper than some too. Went through Greg Smith Equipment. Can google that, he has a pretty nice website with a lot of shop equipment. My two post has about a 17"x20" plate if I remember right. Like it so far. One note: if the instructions haven't improved on the assembly of it, get ready to be winging it........lol. Most of it is just common sense assembly though.