2-post lift experiences?
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 1,614
Likes: 7
From: South Florida
2-post lift experiences?
I've read most of the lift threads that I could find on the forum, and have made an extensive spread sheet with data about many of the different lifts that are out there.
My garage has an 11' unfinished ceiling (which will be finished once my "shop" renovations are complete).
I have just about decided on a 2-post floor plate lift (unless someone can make a compelling argument to install an overhead lift in which the top rail is about 8" into the ceiling, and which would be covered over with an access pannel when the ceiling goes up [to keep the AC in]).
I have narrowed my selection to the following lift brands and models based on cost and hobbist type use (verses pro-shop use). What I'd like to know is if people have experience with the following lifts and can tell me their opinion on them (especially if you have had maintenance issues/quality issues, since I believe all the models below are made partially or completely in China).
Bendpak XPR-9FX / XPR-9F
Danmar D9-2X / D9-X
Workhorse TP9-KAF
Eagle MTP-9F
Direct Lift Pro 9F
Thanks in advance.
My garage has an 11' unfinished ceiling (which will be finished once my "shop" renovations are complete).
I have just about decided on a 2-post floor plate lift (unless someone can make a compelling argument to install an overhead lift in which the top rail is about 8" into the ceiling, and which would be covered over with an access pannel when the ceiling goes up [to keep the AC in]).
I have narrowed my selection to the following lift brands and models based on cost and hobbist type use (verses pro-shop use). What I'd like to know is if people have experience with the following lifts and can tell me their opinion on them (especially if you have had maintenance issues/quality issues, since I believe all the models below are made partially or completely in China).
Bendpak XPR-9FX / XPR-9F
Danmar D9-2X / D9-X
Workhorse TP9-KAF
Eagle MTP-9F
Direct Lift Pro 9F
Thanks in advance.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 301
Likes: 3
From: Marysville ohio
I've read most of the lift threads that I could find on the forum, and have made an extensive spread sheet with data about many of the different lifts that are out there.
My garage has an 11' unfinished ceiling (which will be finished once my "shop" renovations are complete).
I have just about decided on a 2-post floor plate lift (unless someone can make a compelling argument to install an overhead lift in which the top rail is about 8" into the ceiling, and which would be covered over with an access pannel when the ceiling goes up [to keep the AC in]).
I have narrowed my selection to the following lift brands and models based on cost and hobbist type use (verses pro-shop use). What I'd like to know is if people have experience with the following lifts and can tell me their opinion on them (especially if you have had maintenance issues/quality issues, since I believe all the models below are made partially or completely in China).
Bendpak XPR-9FX / XPR-9F
Danmar D9-2X / D9-X
Workhorse TP9-KAF
Eagle MTP-9F
Direct Lift Pro 9F
Thanks in advance.
My garage has an 11' unfinished ceiling (which will be finished once my "shop" renovations are complete).
I have just about decided on a 2-post floor plate lift (unless someone can make a compelling argument to install an overhead lift in which the top rail is about 8" into the ceiling, and which would be covered over with an access pannel when the ceiling goes up [to keep the AC in]).
I have narrowed my selection to the following lift brands and models based on cost and hobbist type use (verses pro-shop use). What I'd like to know is if people have experience with the following lifts and can tell me their opinion on them (especially if you have had maintenance issues/quality issues, since I believe all the models below are made partially or completely in China).
Bendpak XPR-9FX / XPR-9F
Danmar D9-2X / D9-X
Workhorse TP9-KAF
Eagle MTP-9F
Direct Lift Pro 9F
Thanks in advance.
The Mohawk A7
http://www.mohawklifts.com/wp/consumer/2-post-lifts/a7/
And The Mohawk System I
http://www.mohawklifts.com/wp/consum...lifts/system1/
These lifts retail for $5k and $6k new, but they can be found for MUCH less. I got my A7 which is 7 years old for $1500 from a single bay shop that serviced the local schools vehicles last year. I also just saw System I on craigslist in western New York for $1500 as well. Now I know one of you is going to say $1500 for a 7 year old lift is crazy, but you really have to see this left in person to understand just how good it is. I don't know about you but I like to get the best money can buy and the Mohawk is just that, THE BEST money can buy.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 301
Likes: 3
From: Marysville ohio
Racer
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 301
Likes: 3
From: Marysville ohio
These are the only ones I could find on Craigslist in the entire continental United States LOL Even if you have to drive two days to get the lift you will love it. It is so far over the top and more than you will ever need it is ridiculous. Also unless you HAVE to have this right now, just wait for a used one it is worth it!
Enjoy
Seems a bit high to me.....
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/tls/2053455461.html
This is a hell of a deal.....
http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/pts/2070591540.html
Not sure what they modified but it might be worth it....
http://ithaca.craigslist.org/cto/2069531970.html
I know this is too bug but an 18,000 lb lift for $5k.....
http://syracuse.craigslist.org/pts/2063362741.html
Here is one in florida....
http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/tls/2068044263.html
Enjoy
Seems a bit high to me.....
http://cleveland.craigslist.org/tls/2053455461.html
This is a hell of a deal.....
http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/pts/2070591540.html
Not sure what they modified but it might be worth it....
http://ithaca.craigslist.org/cto/2069531970.html
I know this is too bug but an 18,000 lb lift for $5k.....
http://syracuse.craigslist.org/pts/2063362741.html
Here is one in florida....
http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/tls/2068044263.html
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,021
Likes: 133
From: Conejo Valley CA
I just wanted to throw this out there... I don't know if you considered this lift,
http://maxjaxusa.com/
It's two post and great for a homeowner who has the space. Unfortunately, with all the junk in my garage, I didn't have many options and currently own a kwiklift but would have much preferred your choices!
http://maxjaxusa.com/
It's two post and great for a homeowner who has the space. Unfortunately, with all the junk in my garage, I didn't have many options and currently own a kwiklift but would have much preferred your choices!
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Drifting
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1,260
Likes: 1
From: Pearl Mississippi
I just wanted to throw this out there... I don't know if you considered this lift,
http://maxjaxusa.com/
It's two post and great for a homeowner who has the space. Unfortunately, with all the junk in my garage, I didn't have many options and currently own a kwiklift but would have much preferred your choices!
http://maxjaxusa.com/
It's two post and great for a homeowner who has the space. Unfortunately, with all the junk in my garage, I didn't have many options and currently own a kwiklift but would have much preferred your choices!
The Max Jax is the one I'm saving up to buy. I found a new one for $2000 brand new with FREE shipping. I have half of it saved so only half to go...
Racer
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 301
Likes: 3
From: Marysville ohio
By mobility do you mean you are not going to bolt the 4 post down? Also I personally like a two post b/c when they are not in use they take up less space and I find it easier to work on brakes and suspension. However if you are primarily looking for a way to pick the car up for an oil change and to get it off the floor to park under it then a 4 post is the way to go. But if service is your goal then a two post is ideal, notice how few 4-posts are in stalled in a service station.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 1,614
Likes: 7
From: South Florida
missed the one in miami when I searched...used the terms "auto lift" and "automotive lift." Thanks for the searches and help. Gives me some options.
Reference a four post design; I will be doing more service applications, with major work. the design of a four post will get in the way when working on brakes, suspension, frame, body lift stuff, etc. I know I can get the adapter to take the tires off, but the rails will still be in the way. Plus it would permenantly take up a lot of space in the garage. It's only 32'x20'.
Reference a four post design; I will be doing more service applications, with major work. the design of a four post will get in the way when working on brakes, suspension, frame, body lift stuff, etc. I know I can get the adapter to take the tires off, but the rails will still be in the way. Plus it would permenantly take up a lot of space in the garage. It's only 32'x20'.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 2,809
Likes: 3
From: Yorktown Virginia
By mobility do you mean you are not going to bolt the 4 post down? Also I personally like a two post b/c when they are not in use they take up less space and I find it easier to work on brakes and suspension. However if you are primarily looking for a way to pick the car up for an oil change and to get it off the floor to park under it then a 4 post is the way to go. But if service is your goal then a two post is ideal, notice how few 4-posts are in stalled in a service station.
But I know back yard buddy makes a 4 post that you can lift your car up while on the lift itself so it acts like a 2 post. They have tables that slide in between the rails that can accommodate a jack or jack stands along with a hydraulic jack that can go in the center and connect to the main pump.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 43,084
Likes: 33
From: Raleigh / Rolesville NC
With the two post lift, what needs to be done on or under the floor where the post are?
IMO four posts take up too much room. Plus when I lift my car the wheels are almost always the first to come off.
IMO four posts take up too much room. Plus when I lift my car the wheels are almost always the first to come off.
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 204
Likes: 1
From: Crestwood KY
They also have a jack that is available that slides between the runways to lift car up.
Racer
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 418
Likes: 28
From: Evansville IN
At least 4" of 3k psi concrete is what's supposed to be used.
We've moved my brothers TWO post lift to five different garages over the years and never had a single issue with any of the floors. Didn't have a clue what the concrete was or how deep it was. I belive some people get hung up on drilling the holes. It's simple. Go to a rental store get a large hammer drill. Go to a nut and bolt store, Fastenal or similar place buy the 1" bolts, or whatever the lift is drilled for, drill the holes and bolt it town. It's simple.
My buddy has both. A drive on 4 post and a two post. He almost always use the two post for any major job and definately for anything the wheels have to come off for.
The ONLY time I can say I'd want a four post is when I'm on the floor setting the arms on my two posts.
BTW. 11'6" is the minimum my four post lift would fit inside. When I told them I wanted 12' they didn't count the floor dept and I came out with only about two inches to spare. But, with some effort I could make my lift shorter. I've never had anything to touch the top cross post.
Last edited by SMaster; Nov 21, 2010 at 09:27 AM. Reason: My typing sucks...
