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What are the primary differences between a 2 post vs 4 post lift? One may be tempted to say, “Well, the number of columns, of course,” and leave it at that.

However, 2-post and 4-post auto lifts are designed with specific strengths for differing applications. When considering which to purchase, these strengths are important to understand. While one lift is not objectively superior to the other, choosing the correct lift for your application is absolutely vital. For example, whether you are repairing cars from your garage or from a high-end auto shop will play a role in your decision. In the content below, we will compare both lifts – hopefully, leaving you with extensive knowledge and a clear decision.

2-Post Auto Lifts

Two-post auto lifts are frame-engaging, meaning they lift the vehicle utilizing specifically intended lift points on the vehicle’s undercarriage. Because two-post lifts have four arms, they can accommodate a wide range of lift points.

Usually, two-post lifts feature a 220-volt motor.

Two-post lifts are commonly found in auto shops, excellent for drive in, fix it, and drive out situations.

These lifts are durable yet small, ideal for repair shops with multiple active lifts – or an enthusiast’s own personal garage.

Two-post lifts provide a wide range of use. Technicians can easily perform undercarriage repairs – lift height generally allows easy access to the engine, transmission, etc. Furthermore, frame-engaging lifts leave the suspension exposed, making for simple wheel changes and brake repair.

Because two-post lifts raise vehicles via lift points, they provide greater access to the undercarriage in low ceiling garages than wheel-engaging lifts.

Due to their relatively light load capacity – as compared to four-post lifts – two-post lifts are excellent for small vehicles, such as light trucks, vans, and cars. Most two-post lifts have a maximum load capacity of about 20,000 lbs., important information to keep in mind when considering which lift will be ideal for your desired application.

Two-post lifts can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The primary difference between both lift varieties is the vehicle’s position in relation to the lift columns. Symmetrical lift columns are positioned symmetrically to the vehicle. Asymmetrical lift columns are usually positioned at an angle to the vehicle. Both lifts leave minimal space between the car and the columns, often resulting in car door denting. To avoid destruction, repair shop owners and auto enthusiasts should consider utilizing denting protection, such as DoorJammer car door protection, to eliminate costly damage, reduce stress, and prevent lost revenue.

Generally, two-post lifts are less expensive than four-post lifts, making them a good home garage option for any vehicle owner on a budget.

Two-post lifts must be anchored to the ground. While this aids in durability, it severely limits mobility. However, if you plan to keep the lift sedentary, the two-post lift is a good option.

4-Post Auto Lifts

Four-post auto lifts are wheel-engaging; vehicles can drive directly onto runways before use. Because the height of the tire must be accounted for in wheel-engaging lifts, they are not ideal for low ceiling shops.

Usually, four-post lifts feature a 110-volt motor.

Four-post lifts are excellent for a wide variety of vehicles, from small cars to trucks.

Drive-on lifts are easy to utilize. The operator must drive onto the lift, no meticulous positioning of arms into lift points required.

These lifts are a favorite of home repair shops and automotive enthusiasts because they double as storage units. Four-post auto lifts are readily utilized to store multiple cars in a small space, directly over each other.

Four-post lifts are also a favorite of automotive repair shops. These units provide easy access for undercarriage work. With the use of rolling jacks, technicians can adjust the vehicle to perform wheel and brake work.

Because certain kinds of four-post lifts don’t require permanent anchorage into the floor, they are simple to move if needed. Typically, manufacturer-provided casters are required during moving – and are often provided upon purchase. If you do not plan to move your lift, many four-post lifts can also be permanently anchored to the ground.

Four-post lifts are usually more expensive than two-post, due to the complexity of manufacturing mechanics and materials.

Why Do You Need a Lift?

Your requirements for an auto lift will aid in deciding which is best. Here are some questions you may be asking:

Are you a vehicle enthusiast, looking to store your cars but hoping to perform little maintenance? Do you have limited space? Are you tired of having more vehicles than garage space?

If this is the case, a four-post lift is your ideal option. As mentioned, four-post lifts are durable enough to store your vehicle. Furthermore, these lifts hoist vehicles from their tires, a safer way to suspend vehicles for extended periods of time.

Do you plan to complete a wide variety of repairs on your vehicle but have a limited budget?

In this case, a two-post lift may be the best option. Provided you are okay with the lift permanently remaining sedentary.

Is ease-of-use a crucial factor?

Two-post lifts can be more challenging to utilize because correct lifting points must be identified before hoisting. However, any lift must be used with caution.

Is cost a deciding factor?

Two-posts can cost half as much as four. However, choosing the cheapest lift available is not the best option. Choose a reputable, reliable, time-tested brand. Often, the cheapest units do not adhere to strict safety standards. The extra amount one may spend on a four-post lift – or high-quality two-post lift – is absolutely worth it in the long run.

A lift is a vital piece of equipment for any auto repair shop. Thus, you’ll need to make sure that the lift (or lifts) you pick are appropriate for the type of maintenance and repair work you’ll be doing and the vehicles you’ll be working with.

2 Post vs 4 Post Lift

Two post lifts and four post lifts are the most common lift options for most repair shops. Neither lift type is better than the other; rather, you’ll need to consider various factors to see which lift is the best fit for your situation.

Type of Work

A two-post lift offers great access to a vehicle’s undercarriage, making it easy for a mechanic to work on the suspension system, tires, and brakes. A four-post lift works well if you need to do system installations. You can also use it to change a vehicle’s oil, do brake work, and rotate tires; however, you’ll need rolling jacks if you use a four-post lift for brake and tire work.

Size

The dimensions of a 2 post vs 4 post lift are similar. However, the base width varies depending on the brand and model you pick. Measure open floor space with care to ensure you have enough space for the lift of your choice. Bear in mind you’ll also need space to move around the lift. Five feet of space around your lift is ideal if you’re installing a large lift.

Price

Two-lift posts are typically cheaper than four-lift posts. However, cost can vary depending on brand name, model, and other factors.

Weight Capacity

A two-lift post can hold between 7,000 and 15,000 pounds. A four-post lift, on the other hand, can hold up to 40,000 pounds, making them ideal for auto shops that work with large commercial vehicles.

Portability

There are portable two-post and four-post lift options, but the weight limit for these lifts most likely won’t exceed 10,000 pounds. If your shop has limited space, you may want to start with a portable lift or two; however, you’ll need a stable lift before long in order to work with a wider range of vehicles.

Loading and Safety

Unsafe lift usage can result in serious injury. You’ll want to make sure any lift you use is installed on a solid concrete surface. Follow the manual when installing the lift or have a professional do the installation for you. Vehicles should always be loaded with care, especially if you’re driving a large vehicle such as a truck onto a two-post lift.

Ceiling Height Restrictions

Your ceiling should be between 11 and 12 feet high for a two-post lift. A four-post lift will need between 12 and 14 feet of ceiling height.

SVI offers high-quality two-post and four-post lifts in varying sizes, along with top-tier lift parts to suit the needs of any auto shop. Get in touch with us to find out more about our products or to place an order for the items of your choice.

SVI International, Inc

SVI International, Inc is a leading lift manufacturer and shop equipment parts provider for most vehicle lifts and equipment.

Does your shop or garage have a trustworthy lift that needs replacement parts? Instead of buying new, explore our expansive collection of high-quality repair parts. If you have trouble finding the specific part you require, it is most likely not because we don’t have it. Contact our team at (800) 321-8173 or via our online form!

High-quality, durable tire changing repair machines are crucial components to garages and automotive service stations.

High-volume service is demanding, and most auto shops do not have the resources to continually purchase new equipment. Thus, selecting a high-quality tire changer machine initially can lead to increased productivity and cost savings – and finding a repair parts resource for these excellent machines provides lasting value.

What Makes SVI’s Tire Changer Repair Parts Unique?

SVI International, Inc delivers an extensive variety of repair parts, built for quality and durability. The following content explores the range of repair parts SVI offers for many tire changer machines brands – including a brief summary of each make and model.

While exploring the following content, you may wish to search for your specific tire changer model – specific model numbers will be listed throughout this piece; a search and find may guide you to the exact part you require efficiently.

What Repair Parts Does SVI Offer?

The number one source for Accu-Turn Tire Changers, SVI supplies mount/ demount heads, bead breaker seal kits, quick-release dump valves, bead air blast control valves, tire iron bead levers, drop center tool plies, and a number of other parts. In short, SVI has what you need. View our entire collection of Accu Industries repair parts.

Teco

SVI provides parts for ten varieties of Teco tire changers:

• BPS
• SPH
• Teco 21, 27, 36, 46, & 48
• TPH
• UPH

Simpasfaip/ Faip

SVI provides a plethora of repair parts for two specific tire changer makes:

• M 928
• M 928 ROYAL

Silverline

Silverline provides excellent tire changer equipment for light-duty applications. SVI International provides repair parts for the Tire Changer, Silverline, SL11.

Sicam

Sicam is poised to be an industry leader in manufacturing high-quality products, including tire changers. SVI International carries parts for the following Sicam tire changer machine models:

• COLIBRI BL 502
• Falco AL508
• Falco AL510
• Falco AL518
• Falco AL520
• Falco NA524
• Falco NA526
• JUMBO TCS 26
• NIBBIO EL 400

Ranger

SVI International distributes excellent repair parts for the following Ranger tire changers, including (but not limited to):

Nussbaum

When you need to repair your Nussbaum tire changer machine, SVI International has every repair part you may require. Nussbaum’s primary tire changer machine model is TC 355.

Mondolfo Ferro

SVI International carries repair parts for two Mondolfo Ferro tire changers: AS 912 TI and AS 914 TI.

Launch

Like Mondolfo Ferro, Launch produces two primary tire changer machines, both with readily available repair parts at SVI – the two machines are TWC-481 and TWC-581.

Kwik-Way

Kwik-Way manufactures a broad expanse of auto equipment, including parts washers, cylinder hones, brake lathes, seat grinders, surface grinders, and – of course – tire changers. SVI has a collection of repair parts for the following models:

• 502T
• 530
• 540
• 545 Extreme XL
• 580
• 584

John Bean

John Bean heavy-duty tire changers are built to hand any type of wheel, including trucks, buses, earthmoving machines, and agricultural vehicles. Purchasing a brand-new tire changer for your specific application can be costly and, ultimately, unnecessary. SVI carries repair parts for:

• 7600
• 7700
• 8931
• 8936
• 8950INA
• 8950INO
• 8960INA
• 8960INO
• 8990 INO Electric

All Tool

All Tool provides two tire changer machines, All Tire 212 & All Tire Plus. SVI International carries extensive parts for both types.

Giuliano

Since 1976, Giuliano has been active in the creation and optimization of automotive equipment. They build their products with a passion for reliability and steady industry growth. SVI carries repair parts for eight Giuliano tire changers:

• S 109 Bike
• S224
• S225
• S232
• S551
• Silver 112
• Silver 112F
• The BOSS

SVI International, Inc

The list we have compiled above is only a fraction of the tire changer machine brands SVI International, Inc carries repair parts for. Other high-quality brands include Focus, Coats, Eagle, FMC, Fasep, Butler, Bear, Ammco, and Tuxedo.

At SVI International, Inc, we are the leader in repair parts for automotive and industrial equipment. With over 40,000 repair parts readily available for high-quality equipment. In addition to ever-day parts, SVI is known as a problem solver, innovative in every industry. We are a “Can-Do” company, dedicated to providing answers for industry issues.

Get in touch with us today at (800) 321-8173 or via our online contact form to learn how we can help you.

Numerous types of car lifts coexist with a common purpose: hoisting cars. While floor jacks raise a portion of a vehicle for small repairs, car lifts raise the entire vehicle into the air for a plethora of repairs, from simple fixes to challenging projects.

Despite a singular purpose, individual lifts feature unique lifting mechanisms, bringing strength to various applications. In the content below, we explore the ins-and-outs of a wide variety of car lift types, guiding automotive shops and car enthusiasts into an informed purchasing decision for their specific function.

Things to Consider when Choosing a Car Lift

While examining different types of auto lifts, load capacity, lift height, and lift speed must be kept in consideration.

• Load capacity is the maximum weight a lift is capable of withstanding. Of course, load capacity differs depending on the strength of the lift, including size and number of columns or cylinders.
• Lift height is the maximum height a lift can hoist a vehicle. Height is important to consider if undercar repair will be completed. For example, a lift with a maximum height of four feet should be utilized for wheel or body work, not underbody maintenance.
• Lift speed is the amount of time needed to completely raise or lower the lift. Slower lift times are acceptable for a home garage when maintenance, repair, or body work are a hobby. Quick lift speed is exceptionally important for high volume repair shops, but lift speed and descent is also regulated for safety in high volume shops.

It is crucial to take into account these factors when evaluating various auto lifts to ensure optimal performance and safety in automotive maintenance and repair settings.

The Three Main Car Lift Types

There are three main car lift types. Two-post lifts allow easy access and can be used for most auto maintenance and repair jobs. Four-post car and truck lifts are ideal if your shop works on large vehicles and/or needs extra parking space. Scissor lifts are designed for small shops and lightweight vehicles. Some of these lifts are even portable to make it easy for you to move the lift to any part of your work area.

Types of Car Lifts

In the car repair industry, choosing the right car lift is a big deal for getting the job done efficiently and safely. Let’s explore the different types of car lifts examining the different types and their unique features.

Two-Post Surface Mounted Lifts

Two-post surface-mounted lifts, commonly used in “drive-through” maintenance shops, are prized for their versatility and robust weight capacity ranging from 7,000 lbs. to 10,000 lbs. These lifts, featuring two columns, provide full access to a vehicle’s underside, making them ideal for diverse repair tasks, from routine inspections to complex exhaust or fuel system repairs. While the lifts require secure floor bolting for stability, their adaptability across various vehicle types and efficient design makes them a vital asset in mechanic shops, streamlining maintenance operations.

Symmetrical vs Asymmetrical

Symmetrical and asymmetrical lifts are both two-post lifts, but there are important differences between the two. Symmetrical lifts have four arms of equal lengths. They provide a stable base for large vehicles such as pick-up trucks and vans. Asymmetrical lifts, on the other hand, have shorter front arms and longer back arms. Most of the vehicle’s weight sits on the back arms rather than in the middle. These lifts are ideal for cars, as a mechanic can not only fix underneath the vehicle but also access the inside of the vehicle as needed.

Four-Post Lifts

The four-post lift is commonly considered the most popular and versatile car lifts that a shop can utilize.

Due to extra support, four-posts lifts are extremely sturdy, with greater load capacity than their two-post counterparts. Four-post runway lifts are wheel-engaging, allowing vehicles to drive directly onto the lift. The lift can adjust to the work being done. For example, the car’s wheels rest on the lift for undercarriage work but with the use of rolling jacks can be removed for wheel and brake work.

With a four-post lift, you can reach heights of up to 14 feet to work on a vehicle. Their load capacity makes four-post lifts a common solution in the automotive repair industry. Certain four-post lifts don’t require anchorage to the floor, allowing them to be moved with ease when needed. Though common in a professional setting, four-post lifts can also be found in the hands of homeowners and automotive enthusiasts – largely due to their mobility and use as a way to store more cars in small space one right over the other.

Four-post lifts can double as storage, allowing for two cars stacked in the same location.

Four-Post Alignment Lift

The four-post lift, commonly configured as a surface-mounted lift, is a standard choice for many automotive shops. Apart from facilitating wheel alignment, it allows mechanics to work on various components such as mufflers or perform oil changes. This type of alignment lift enables vehicles to be easily driven onto two runways and lifted by their tires, providing access to the vehicle’s underside. The visibility of the underside makes the four-post lift a popular option in automotive shops, often referred to as “drive-on lifts” due to this convenient feature. While the four-post lift requires more space, it stands out for its ease of vehicle loading and is considered the safest among lifts.

Drive-On Parallelogram Lifts

The parallelogram lift resembles both the four-post lift and scissor lift. In functionality, the parallelogram lift is drive-on, like the four-post. Aesthetically, it resembles a scissor lift with accordion-like hoisting mechanisms beneath runways. The parallelogram differentiates itself in mobility; it moves slightly forward or backward while in motion.

FRAME ENGAGING LIFTS

Excellent for use in home garages, low-rise frame engaging lifts – often scissor or parallelogram style – are the most basic model available. These lifts often have a load capacity of under 3 tons.

Electric-hydraulic or compressed air often drive frame engaging lift movement. It is important to note that frame engaging lifts do not provide access to the entire underside of the vehicle. Therefore, low-rise frame engaging lifts are most often employed for wheel work or body projects.

SCISSOR LIFTS

Looking in to a scissor lift can be particularly advantageous for auto shops or garages with low ceilings. Scissor lifts offer precise control over lift height, making them ideal for spaces with height constraints. This type of lift optimizes space utilization, requiring only the necessary area to efficiently service a car without the need for external posts. Upon returning to its original position, the scissor lift minimizes concerns about ceiling height or additional space by shrinking close to ground level. Beyond these benefits, scissor lifts come in various types, each catering to specific needs. Factors such as versatility and weight capacity should be considered when making a decision about which scissor lift is most suitable for your requirements.

Parallelogram Lift

A parallelogram lift is similar to a four-post lift. However, it doesn’t lift a vehicle straight into the air. Rather, the vehicle is lifted at a slight angle to be either a bit ahead of or behind a vehicle on the ground.

In-Ground Lifts

In-ground lifts have been a widespread component of automotive shops for years, an industry standard. Their key characteristic is in the name; these lifts descend into the floor when not in use. In-ground lifts are also popular for flexibility of design. They can either be frame or wheel engaging.

In-ground auto lifts are often equal in cost to other lifts and do require more installation steps and time. However, their unique functionality, low cost of ownership and durability have proved extraordinary in automotive repair shops and home garages for decades.

Power Post in-ground lifting systems have proven more reliable and economical than any other. Power Post lifts are durable; many shops utilize lifts installed over 50 years prior, operating just as excellently as the day they were installed.

Power Post lifts are low-pressure hydraulic lifting systems from SVI International, Inc. These lifts are not illegal, banned, or even under consideration for regulation. The EPA has permanently exempted in-ground low-pressure lifts from regulation.

In-ground lifts generally fit into three categories: front and rear lifts, side by side lift, and single post lifts. Below, we explore a small sample of each kind with significant differences.

In-Ground Front and Rear Car Lifts:

Each front and rear car lift listed below has similar stats, excluding lifting capacity. Our goal is to provide a starting place for identifying the best lift for your situation.

• 2P-102:
  • Lifting capacity: 11,000 lbs., evenly distributed on front and rear columns
  • Single moveable front and single stationary rear
  • Axle engaging
  • Adjustable front cylinder
  • Air/hydraulic oil operated
  • Post diameters: 7 ½ inches front and rear
  • Lift height: 69 inches front and 73 inches rear, based on standard adapters
  • Multiple lip seal design for increased performance
• 2P-103:
  • Lifting capacity: 16,000 lbs., evenly distributed on front and rear columns
• 2P-202:
  • Lifting capacity: 11,000 lbs., evenly distributed on both columns
• 2P-203:
  • Lifting capacity: 16,000 lbs., evenly distributed on both columns

In-Ground Side by Side Car Lifts:

• FSDT-28BS
  • Lifting capacity: 12,000 lbs., evenly distributed on front and rear columns
  • Operation: Full-hydraulic
  • Lift height: 72 inches from the floor to the top of the adapter pad without extension
  • Plunger centers: 57 ½ inches; mechanical, heavy-duty racks equalize plunger movement
  • Cylinders: 8 ½ inches in diameter
  • Solid steel bolster-style and low-profile swing arms
  • 360-degree adapters nesting style, swivel adjustable on sliding sleeves
  • Automatic locking: a spring-loaded latch automatically engage into notches as the lift is raised. Release lock while lowering; the lock will automatically reset for the next job.

In-Ground Single Post Car Lifts:

• FS-10AS
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Safe to operate
  • Handles most domestic and imported models
  • 4-position adapters provide undercar accessibility
  • 4-inch road clearance
  • Ideal for any shop or home garage
  • Excellent for front-end and suspension work
  • Lift capacity: 8,000 lbs.
  • Operation: Semi hydraulic or full hydraulic
  • Lift height: 72 inches
• SC-363
  • Perfect for lifting sports cars, specifically Porsche 911 models
  • Associated with wealthy enthusiasts, racing and high-performance markets
  • Unequivocally safer than any old-fashioned lift
  • Lifts at specifically intended pick-up points
  • Optional 360-degree rotation keeps mechanics between the work and workbench
  • Low maintenance
  • Simple design

Low-Rise Lifts

Low-rise lifts are ideal for any auto repair shop with a low ceiling. These two-post lifts can typically hold up to 20,000 lbs. in weight and are perfect for fast auto repair and maintenance jobs.

Mid-Rise Lifts

Mid-rise lifts are ideal if your shop does a lot of brake and suspension work. They can also be used to do repairs under a vehicle, but it may be hard to access certain areas, especially the vehicle’s center.

Small Equipment / Motorcycle Lifts

Small equipment lifts can be used to repair golf carts, landscape equipment, lawnmowers, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, and more. Motorcycle lifts can be used to repair or even store a motorbike. If you work with small vehicles, investing in one or both lift types may be a good idea, as they increase safety while helping you get maintenance/repair jobs done faster than would otherwise be possible.

Specialty Lifts

Specialty lifts such as single-acting hydraulic cylinders are ideal for specialized auto repair and maintenance jobs. They can be used by industrial and small auto shops alike.

SVI has durable, dependable car and truck lift models and lift replacement parts that you can count on for years to come. We offer access to multiple brands, fast shipping, and customer service tailored to meet your exact needs. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our different types of car lifts or to get a price quote on the model of your choice.

Explore Different Types of Lifts with SVI International, Inc.

SVI International, Inc is the industry leader in automotive lifts and lift repair parts, providing over 40,000 repair parts for a plethora of lifts and brand-new auto lifts of extraordinary quality. SVI is dedicated to providing innovative solutions to solve industry challenges. If a required part has been previously discontinued by its original maker, our team of fully degreed mechanical engineers design an alternative solution that others won’t be bothered to help with.

Our three “Ready-Ship” warehouses ensure that our solutions are delivered quickly, without affecting a business’ bottom line. To inquire about our products or request a quote, contact our team today at (800) 321-8173 or via our online contact form.