2 post lifts

[Robert M.]

I'm looking for a two post lift for my restoration shop. Does anyone have any suggestions? Symetrical or asymetrical. I see Americas Pride has a lift that does both. Thanks for all feedback.

[Chuck S.]

Re: 2 post lifts

Keith, I helped a friend install a Worth two post asymetrical lift and was favorably impressed with the heavy duty construction and quality fabrication. If I had the overhead for a lift (and my friend didn't already have one), it would be my choice. I don't remember what he paid; Worth could be a more expensive, professional grade lift.

You have to give close attention to the installation instructions or I believe you could install it backwards. It didn't happen to us, but if you have you ever worked on something important with your best friend (thinks he's always right, and you know you are always right), you can imagine the spirited discussion.

When you first see the asymetric configuration, you will be doubtful the anchor bolts in the floor will handle the overturning moment. He made the first full lift with his Surburban (the ultimate test) while we stood well to one side. Our concern was baseless; the lift worked just like the engineers expected it would, and it has performed with no problems.

[Ray C.]

Re: 2 post lifts

Hi!
I believe the difference is that an asymmetrical lift will allow you to open your car doors. I just installed a used asymmetrical 7000LBS lift and it is great. The only minor problem is that I have to move the car back and forth to get the lifting arms under the 65 frame.

Ray

[Joe L.]

Re: 2 post lifts

Keith-----

I don't have a lift as of yet (and may never), but I've been looking at them for quite some time. From the standpoint of SERVICING cars, I think that the 2 post, symetrical or asymetrical, has the advantage of being more useful. However, from the perspective of allowing additional cars to be stored in a given space as well as performing some service operations, the "4 poster" is the way to go. Another advantage of the "4 poster" is that you don't need to anchor it to the floor.

I don't think that I could ever be comfortable parking a car under another raised on a 2 post type lift. Especially, here in California, close to the Hayward and San Andreas faults.

[Robert M.]

Re: 2 post lifts

I have a 3000 sq.ft. shop being built, that can easily fit 6 cars. I was going to use it for service work, body lift etc. I guess the asymetrical sounds the best. Any brand preferences?

[Jerry G.]

We store one on lift and one under, No prob. *NM*

[Gary C.]

Re: 2 post lifts

I have a two post asymmetric lift manafactured by Rotary and installed by one of their autherized dealers. I have no problems and it makes service a dream! the arms will fit under my side pipe 67, even with its' sagging suspension.

[Kent K.]

Re: 2 post lifts & slab thickness

Keith,

This is for all those wishing to install a 2 or 4 post lift in their garage/shop. Our structural engineering consultant (we are architects) recommends the concrete slab thickness under such lifts is at least 6" with some #4 bar reinforcing, both ways and the normal 6x6-10/10 welded wire fabric. This is to avoid cracking in 2 & 4 post lifts and will help to support the overturning moment caused be 2 post lifts. Since we are presently building a garage/shop addition to our home, our slab-on-grade will meet these requirements where a lift may be present some time in the future. (We are in Florida.) For those lucky enough to have 2 story buildings, be sure to consult with a registered engineer for the upper floor structure if you wish to store cars there or install a lift on the upper level. This applies for those with dual level entry buildings too.

Remember, building codes may have something to add but are for minimal requirements. Stronger is better!

Good Corvetting,
Kent #6201