Latest update February 23rd, 2017 8:43 PM
Choosing the Right Lift for the Job
Determining which lift is right for the job not only dictates which types of vehicles can be serviced in the facility, but can also ultimately affect your shop’s productivity and bottom line.
Most lift manufacturers offer a site survey to make sure the right lift is being ordered, there is adequate concrete on the floor to safely bolt down a lift, adequate electricity to operate the lift and enough ceiling height with no obstructions. Specifically, Mohawk offers adjustable overhead hydraulic lines or the option for the lines to be routed in the floor for two posts. This provides flexibility in terms of the types of vehicles that are able to be lifted. If you’re looking to install a large four post, make sure there is ample room for the track lengths that you’re ordering.
If the repair facility is not conducive to bolting down a lift, which is required for four posts and parallelograms, mobile column lifts are a good alternative. Not only do mobiles offer the flexibility of movement from one bay to another (or out of the way completely when not in use), they can be used for brake service with the addition of a chassis lifting beam. This option permits the vehicle to be raised by the frame and leaves the wheels hanging free.
Chassis lifting beam leaves the wheels hanging free
Also to be considered is whether the lift is certified to the current ANSI/ALI ALCTV standard, which is the one and only nationally recognized standard for vehicle lifts and options. In order for a lift to be certified, it must pass rigorous third part mechanical, electrical and load testing. To determine if a lift has received certification, go to the Automotive Lift Institute website at www.autolift.org. If a lift or lift option is not listed on the website it is not certified.
Automotive Lift Journal
Since 1981 Mohawk has manufactured the highest quality, safest auto and truck garage lifts available. We say this with confidence because we have thousands of lifts in the field today that are 25+ years old, and still used everyday and will still be used for years to come. Mohawk is the #1 lift supplier for all government, state, utility, and fleet lifting requirements. Mohawk’s popularity is based on a combination of safety systems, design, construction, and the most inclusive warranty in the lift industry. Mohawk Lifts are proudly designed, welded, and manufactured in the U.S.A. Mohawk Lifts factory is located in upstate N.Y.
Do you have a similar guide to this for US Lifts for the home shop?
You may find this page of Mohawk’s website helpful if you are looking for a two post for your home shop: http://www.mohawklifts.com/wp/consumer/automotive-lifts/2-post-lifts/