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The sheer amount of tire changer and tire changer parts that exist can make choosing the best options for your shop seem like an overwhelming prospect. From Corghi to Ranger, each manufacturer has their strengths and limitations that can make or break that particular option for your shop. At SVI, we have a wide range of experience with many types of tire changers that we would like to share with you. By the time you are finished reading, you should have enough information to be able to make a better decision regarding the best tire changer and tire changer parts for your auto shop.

Type and Size of Wheels

The first differentiator you should consider is the typical type and size of the wheels you most frequently work with. Are your clients mostly driving sedans and smaller daily driving trucks, or do you work with larger vehicles that would require larger tire changer parts? Answering that question will help you make the first step towards making the best decision.

One additional consideration is whether or not you would like to specialize in catering to a certain type of tire. For example, if you choose to work with run flat tires, you will require a separate kind of tire changer. Run flat tires allow the operator to continue driving the vehicle even on flat tires until they can be replaced. Those special tires often require a different type of equipment than traditional tires typically would.

Price

Another huge factor in finding the best tire changer for your shop needs will be its price. Consider not only what your shop can currently afford, but what it will likely be able to afford in repair parts and maintenance down the road. While cheaper tire changers may lower up front costs, consider how the maintenance costs will add up with a lower quality product.

Assumption of Risk & Safety

There are many different types of tire changers that have some way of mitigating the amount of risk involved with a tire change, for both your employees and the tires being worked on. That being said, one of the better options is a tilt back tire changer. For inexperienced staff members, these types of changers provide less risk of damaging tires.

Air vs. Electric

While there are certainly benefits of both options of tire changers, electric models still typically take the win in terms of convenience and expense. That being said, always consider which type of tire changer will be best suited to your specific auto shop’s needs. Just because electric options are cost effective, does not mean they will be effective in all types of shops or garages.

Change Your Part Provider to SVI

While deciding which tire changer to select, choosing the right tire changer part provider is a no brainer. SVI International is the lead provider of repair parts for automotive lifts and industrial equipment, including all brands and types of tire changers. With over 40,000 products, we offer the most diverse and widespread selection of shop equipment parts, meaning you will never have to go anywhere else to get the exact part you need.

Contact our team today and let us know how we can help you choose the best tire changer and tire changer parts for your unique needs.

Please note, while applicable for most standard auto lifts, the answers you find in this document may not be best for your specific application. When in doubt, always consult with your auto lift provider first.

Auto Lift Questions

#1. How much ceiling height is needed to park one car above the other?

While this answer varies depending on the type of lift you ultimately decide to choose, there’s a simple way to determine the maximum height you’ll need. If you are wanting to park one car over another, start by measuring the individual heights of each of the cars you want to lift. Add them together and then add another 10 inches to your number. The final result will be your answer, giving you the minimum safe height required.

Car 1 Height (H1) + Car 2 Height (H2) + 10” = Minimum Safe Height Required

Could you potentially get away with slightly less overhead room? Sure, but this formula ensures you have plenty of space for either storage or service needs.  

#2. What type of power outlet/source is needed to operate my lift?

Residential and commercial models tend to need different power sources. If you are looking to install a residential lift, a single-phase 110V or 220V power source should do the trick. These types of outlets are fairly standard in residential garages, so you shouldn’t be concerned. However, commercial lifts often require “sturdier” power supplies, usually 220V or 440V sources. As always, consult with your owner’s manual or your lift provider prior to deciding.

#3. Do I need a special type of floor or foundation to support my lift?

Flooring requirements are different for each lift. If you already have a lift in mind, you can usually find specific requirements in your owner’s manual. However, in most applications, a minimum of 4” thick concrete, rated for 3,000 psi will be able to support your lift and the vehicles it holds. Flat surfaces with no more than a 3% grade are ideal and strongly recommended for most models.

This being said, be sure to adhere to any specific flooring/concrete requirements found in your owner’s manual and ensure the floor is structurally sound. This means no holes, cracks, expansion joints, or soft concrete.

#4. Do I need a building permit to install my lift?

Most home garage lifts do not require a permit. However, commercial lifts and a few specialty home garage options do. The process of obtaining permits and meeting requirements will vary based on your city and state, so remember to check with your local building department beforehand.

#5. Can I mount the power unit on any column of the lift?

Again, while the answer to this question will depend on your chosen type of lift, there are several options (both 2-post and 4-post) which do allow you to install the power unit on either column.

#6. Do I need to buy anything else with my lift?

Along with your lift, you will need to purchase at least 3 gallons of hydraulic oil to keep everything running smoothly. Because lifts are so heavy (some weighing up to 2,000lbs), you may also want to have someone install it for you. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a forklift to do so yourself.

Additionally, if you are attempting to install the lift independently, keep in mind that some larger models require at least two people, and can take up to six hours to complete.

#7. Where can I get replacement parts for my lift?

Whether you buy a new or used auto lift, it will inevitably need replacement parts. For over 40 years, SVI International has been serving the automotive service equipment industry with honesty, integrity, and a high level of quality. We provide on-time delivery and same-day shipping on all our in-stock parts. We exist as your one-stop shop for equipment parts, lifting equipment, RELS brake lathes, fluid delivery products, petroleum equipment parts, and much more.

Whether you have additional questions not answered here, concerns, or need help placing an order, we are always just a phone call away. Call us at (800) 321-8173 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to assisting you and invite you to peruse the second part in this series, Frequently Asked Auto Lift Questions: Part 2.