What can be done on a 4-post?
Thread Starter
Former Vendor
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 7,331
Likes: 61
From: Port Huron MI
What can be done on a 4-post?
Hello, wondering if you can do the following work on a 4 post lift......
Drop out a rear end?
Trans for clutch install?
I'm pretty sure it CAN be done but would the 4 post cause more trouble than help? Such as maybe doing it on jackstands be easier? Thinking about picking up a 4 post lift but unsure if having it would be beneficial for the work on a C5 vette? Thanks!
Drop out a rear end?
Trans for clutch install?
I'm pretty sure it CAN be done but would the 4 post cause more trouble than help? Such as maybe doing it on jackstands be easier? Thinking about picking up a 4 post lift but unsure if having it would be beneficial for the work on a C5 vette? Thanks!
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,217
Likes: 5
From: Stark County Ohio
With a four post the cradle (with the suspension still attached) would have to come out before and separately from the rear end, trans, & drive shaft assembly. Not really that much extra work. How often are you pulling the drive train?
Some complain that suspension, brake work, etc, is cumbersome on a four post. With a rolling bridge between the runways, jacking & supporting the frame to allow the wheels to hang is simple enough.
I purchased a second four post about five years after my first, because I felt the two-post would not be that much of an advantage, compared to the ease of use of a four post – driving on and off for storage, routine maintenance, polishing/waxing, etc. is a breeze.
I could have one (or two) of each style if I wanted - having a 2,400 square foot, 12-foot high garage allows me lots of options, but I find the four post models just fine.
Some complain that suspension, brake work, etc, is cumbersome on a four post. With a rolling bridge between the runways, jacking & supporting the frame to allow the wheels to hang is simple enough.
I purchased a second four post about five years after my first, because I felt the two-post would not be that much of an advantage, compared to the ease of use of a four post – driving on and off for storage, routine maintenance, polishing/waxing, etc. is a breeze.
I could have one (or two) of each style if I wanted - having a 2,400 square foot, 12-foot high garage allows me lots of options, but I find the four post models just fine.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 23,283
Likes: 905
From: Lake Elsinore, CA
This is the kind of work I typically do on my and my buddy's four post lift. Never had a problem doing any job on it. Oviously a 2-poster is nice for brake/susp. work but I can do those with no problem on my 4-poster as well.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...mega-pics.html
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-g...mega-pics.html
Last edited by Patches; Jun 8, 2009 at 04:50 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,217
Likes: 5
From: Stark County Ohio
You can place 2x12 boards on the runways for added clearance.
I’ve used two 2-ton six-foot high adjustable jack stands by placing the stands on the ground under the car (on the lift) and lowering the lift a few inches to gain clearance for regular jack stands.
I have two flat (runway level) rolling platforms and a recessed sliding platform that accommodates a jack for lower vehicles.
Jacking up a car like the Corvette on a four post requires some forethought for sure, but once you figure out the best method for you, it's not bad at all.
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Instructor
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 164
Likes: 0
From: New Bern NC
I have both, 2 post is much easier to perform all maintenance projects. 4 post is more suitable to me for storage. However, there are jack stands and other tools to facilitate the use of a 4 post if that is all you have. It all depende on your available space and ceiling height. Good luck
