A Comprehensive Guide to Installing a 2-Post Car Lift in Your Shop or Garage

Automotive Lift Repair Florida Two-post car lifts are essential for any repair shop or home garage. They make automotive repair not only easier but also much safer by allowing the vehicle to be lifted off the ground. While using a lift is standard practice in the auto repair industry, installing one requires professional expertise. It’s advisable to hire professionals for the installation, as it involves technical and safety considerations. Though it may add to the cost, it’s a worthwhile investment to ensure safety and longevity.

 Key Considerations When Installing a 2-Post Car Lift

Safety should always be your top priority. Wear proper protective gear, including clothing, gloves, and safety glasses. It’s important to have assistance when lifting heavy components to avoid injury. Make sure you have all the recommended tools, including those listed in the installation manual provided with the lift.

 Before You Begin Installation

If you’re planning to install the Automotive Lift Repair Florida car lift yourself, there are several things to check in advance. First, ensure that the concrete in your garage or shop is strong and deep enough to support the lift. Manufacturers typically recommend concrete that is 6 to 12 inches thick with a minimum PSI of 3000. If your concrete doesn’t meet these standards, you’ll need to dig holes where the columns will stand and pour new concrete. Aim for holes about 2 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 1 foot deep for each column.

Once your lift is delivered, have a plan for unloading it. Renting a forklift is a good option, which usually costs between $100 and $150 per day, depending on your location. Be sure to coordinate with the delivery service to arrange a drop-off time and prepare for unloading.

When unboxing the Automotive Lift Repair Florida lift, be cautious when removing the packing materials and shipping bands to avoid damaging the power unit, which will likely be placed on top of the lift.

 Installing the Automotive Lift Repair Florida Power Unit

While this guide provides basic steps for installing a car lift, each lift model is slightly different, so it’s crucial to also follow the manufacturer’s manual. If you have any questions during installation, don’t hesitate to contact professional installers for assistance.

 Tools and Equipment Required

To install a car lift, you’ll need:

– Two 10’ to 12’ step ladders

– ISO 32 Light Hydraulic Oil (around 12 quarts)

– Tape measure

– Rotary hammer drill with a ¾ inch bit (a core drill rebar cutter is recommended)

– 4’ level

– Wrenches and sockets (sizes ½” to 1-½”; 1-1/8” for ¾” anchors)

– Vise grips

– 8mm socket head wrench

– Torque wrench

– Teflon tape

After removing the packaging, begin by inserting the cables or chains inside the columns. The exact steps will vary based on the lift model, so refer to your lift’s manual for details. Typically, the lift should be installed about 13 feet from the bay door, ensuring enough room for vehicles to enter and exit the shop without obstruction.

 Aligning and Installing the Automotive Lift Repair Florida Columns

Once you’ve determined where to install the columns, snap a chalk line as a guide for positioning. This will help ensure the columns are aligned correctly. These columns are heavy, so enlist a helper to assist you. Depending on whether you’re installing a symmetrical or asymmetrical lift, the positioning of the columns may differ. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

 Drilling and Securing the Columns

Use a rotary hammer drill to drill holes in the concrete, following the base plate’s pre-drilled holes as a guide. Once the holes are drilled, insert the anchor bolts, but don’t tighten them fully yet. Tap the bolts into place with a hammer and use a level to ensure the column is properly aligned. If adjustments are needed, use horseshoe shims to level the column. Once leveled, tighten the bolts to 85 ft-lbs of torque.

Repeat this process for the second column.

 Installing the Top Trough Assembly

After both columns are secured, you can install the top trough assembly. Depending on your equipment, you may need a forklift or the help of a few people to lift the top bar into place. Once it’s positioned, tighten the bolts. If the anchor bolts loosen during this step, re-tighten them.

 Installing the Hydraulic Power Unit

With the main structure in place, it’s time to install the hydraulic power unit. This step requires assistance, as the unit can be heavy. The hydraulic unit will come with a vibration dampener, which should be installed between the unit and the column. Once the unit is in place, fill it with around four gallons of hydraulic oil.

 Setting Up Cables, Lines, and Hoses

Next, install the Automotive Lift Repair Florida safety mechanisms, including safety cables, hydraulic lines, and power unit hoses. Refer to your lift’s manual for specific instructions, as these can vary by model. Be methodical during this step to ensure everything is installed correctly—mistakes here could require significant rework.

 Installing the Lift Arms

Finally, install the lift arms by sliding the headpins into place and securing them with snap rings. Adjust the arm restraint gears as needed, ensuring they are properly aligned. Before using the lift with a vehicle, test the lift arms by moving them and checking that they can support your weight.

 Final Adjustments

Make sure the gears are meshing correctly, and tighten any loose bolts. Test the lift thoroughly before using it for automotive repairs, ensuring everything is functioning safely and smoothly.

By following these steps and the manufacturer’s guidelines, you’ll have a solid, safe installation for your 2-post car lift.

 Site Selection

Before installing your car lift, ensure the following:

– Automotive Lift Repair Florida Lift Location: Whenever possible, refer to architect’s plans. Verify that the layout dimensions align with the floor plan to ensure there is enough space for the lift. The lift requires a 220v, 30-amp, single-phase grounded electrical source. Ensure that the location provides ample room for safe, unrestricted lift operation.

– Overhead Clearance: Ensure the installation area is free from overhead obstructions such as heaters, structural supports, electrical lines, doors, or lights.