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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.

What are the Three Main Types of Lifts?

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.

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.

Two-Post Surface Mounted Lifts

Two-post surface mounted lifts are one of the most common types, often utilized in “drive-through” maintenance shops – drive in, fix the car, drive out. Consisting of two columns, these lifts are named for their design. Most mechanic shops will own two-post surface mounted lifts, because surface mounted lifts generally allow for full access to the underside of the vehicle. Full reach under the car makes repairs of any kind easy to access, especially exhaust or fuel system work.

Two-post lifts must be bolted to the floor, eliminating easy mobility. If the lift will remain put, this will not be an issue. These lifts are built symmetrically or asymmetrically.

Symmetrical Lifts

Once the vehicle is driven onto the lift, minimal space remains between the vehicle doors and lift columns. Mechanics must stay alert to protect the doors from denting if opened during repair.

Asymmetrical Lifts

These lifts are less likely to cause damage. The probability of damaging vehicle doors is les likely, because posts are rotated at a 30-degree angle. A vehicle can be driven a third of the way onto the lift while remaining evenly balanced, somewhat reducing the possibility of denting the doors.

*As an additional safety measure, invest in DoorJammer car door protection pads for your vehicle lifts.

Benefits of the two-post lift include:

• Cost: This lift is affordable for home enthusiasts and mechanic shops, often half as expensive as the four-post lifts.
• Size: Two-posts lifts are small, allowing for accessibility in tight spaces. This is ideal for personal garages and mechanic shops requiring multiple lifts.
• Ease-of-Use: Because two-post lifts have four arms they accommodate a wide range of varying lift points.

A final consideration is load capacity. The majority of two-post lifts have a maximum load capacity below 20,000 lbs. Thus, this lift model is ideal for light trucks, vans and cars.

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.

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.

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

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.

An alignment lift can be a big decision.  The right lift can take your home garage to a different level, or allow an automotive shop to work on different types of vehicles, allowing them to expand their business. That’s why it is crucial that you get the right alignment lift for the types of vehicles that you are going to be operating on. Different alignment lifts have different advantages that make them more suitable for certain situations. There are three main automotive lifts to choose from, and each has circumstances that make them beneficial. But first, it’s important to understand how an alignment lift functions.

Understanding Automotive Lifts

It’s common for auto shops or home garages to have difficulty when trying to perform complex wheel alignments on a standard vehicle lift. This is where the alignment lift comes in. Alignment lifts allow a mechanic or car enthusiast better access to suspension components to align your vehicle’s axles, tires and to make sure the steering wheel is straight. What makes alignment lifts an attractive choice for anyone operating on vehicles, are the features. They typically have non-resistant, free-floating front turn plates, rear slip plates, and are built to maintain and assist inaccuracy, for the best alignment possible. But what are the main types of alignment lifts and which do you choose?

The Three Main Automotive Lifts

Once you have decided that you are going to purchase an alignment lift, it’s time to decide which type of lift you’ll need. Each type of lift has certain strengths that can make it more suitable for certain types of vehicles. The three main lifts that you have to choose from are:

• Two-Post Lifts- A two-post lift is a very common and versatile lift. This type of lift can be used on most vehicles and allows for easy access for most mechanical work.

• Four-Post Car and Truck Lifts- A four-post car lift is great for a high-traffic environment.  They are generally considered safer than a two-post lift.

• Alignment Scissor Lift- When space is a concern, the scissor lift is your best bet. Some scissor lifts are even portable. Different scissor models come with varying heights to help you select based on the average height of the vehicles you work on and the ceiling heights in your shop.

This is a basic layout of the three main alignment lifts.  Let’s take a closer look at the differences and help you decide which lift is best for you.

Two-Post Lifts

The two-post alignment lift has two upright columns, with four adjustable arms. Typically, this type of alignment lift is fueled by an electric/hydraulic power. It was created for automotive shops that did not have the ability to install an in-ground lift. This type of lift is the most used style of two posts above-ground lift found in the United States. European models can differ in how they are configured. The two-post lift can be the best purchase for someone wanting to replace an in-ground lift that is currently not working, allowing you to avoid a dragged-out process removal and installation of another in-ground lift. These lifts can help you operate on cars, light trucks, and other types of passenger vehicles.  The weight capacity can vary from 7,000 lbs. to 10,000 lbs.

Four-Post Lifts

The four-post lift is configured as a four-post surface-mounted lift, this is the typical type of lift used by many automotive shops. Outside of wheel alignment, it allows them to work on things such as a muffler, or to do an oil change. The four-post alignment lift allows vehicles to be driven onto two runways and lifted by its tires, exposing the underside of the vehicle. Being able to see the underside of the vehicle makes the four-post lift a popular option for many automotive shops. Due to the fact you can drive onto the lift, they are often called drive-on lifts due to this feature.  The four-post lift is the biggest of the bunch and takes up the most amount of room. However, it is a lot easier to load vehicles on a four-post lift, and the safest lift to operate out of the bunch.

Alignment Scissor Lifts

It can be extremely beneficial to purchase a scissor lift, especially for auto shops or garages with low ceilings. With a scissor lift, you can control the exact lift height desired. This type of lift only takes up the necessary space to effectively service a car, without the use of installed external posts. Once returned to its original position, you will no longer have to worry about ceiling height or additional space as the scissor lift will shrink close to the level to the ground. With the understanding of what that alignment scissor lift can provide, it’s time to look at the different types of scissor lifts, and things that should factor into your decision.

These three lifts are the most common types of alignment lifts and with good reason. They each have certain advantages that can make them a good choice depending on your objective and the space you have to work with.  Whatever type of lift you choose; you want to make sure you get your alignment lift from a supplier you can trust.

Find the Right Lift for Your Operation with SVI International

Whether you decide on an automotive scissor lift, a four-post lift, or any other lift model, it’s imperative that you purchase your lift and lift replacement parts from a highly reputable company. At SVI International, we are the industry’s leading supplier of auto lifts and lift repair parts for all types of automotive lifts.

With over 40,000 products, our diverse product line serves as a one-stop-shop for equipment parts, lifting equipment, fluid delivery products, RELS brake lathes, and so much more.

We know that downtime can be costly, so our 3 ready-ship warehouses provide on-time delivery and same-day shipping for in-stock parts.

An SVI specialist would love to get in touch about serving your needs, including any questions or concerns you may have. To get in touch, give us a call at (800) 321-8173 or complete our online contact form. We always respond quickly!

Tires are a very integral part of every vehicle. Without them, there’s definitely no way you’re going to get anywhere. That’s why it is so important to understand the varying parts and the role each one plays. From the tread to the bead liner, here’s what you need to know about the seven parts of a tire.

What Are the Seven Parts of a Tire?

Each part of the tire has a specific purpose that helps ensure the integrity of the tire and your overall safety on the road. There are seven common parts you need to know to fully understand how a tire works.

Tread

This is the part of a tire that comes in contact with the road. Likewise, tread sipes are the smaller treads within the tread that help improve traction on slick surfaces such as sand or snow.

Sidewall

The sidewall is the side of the tire from the bead to the tread. The main purpose is to provide protection to the cord body. Most pertinent information about the tire is printed on the sidewall.

Belt Plies

These are the strong layers of cord located just under the tread. They provide stability and durability to the tire tread. In most cases, there can be anywhere from two to fourteen belt plies in a single tire.

Radial Cord Body

The radial cord body is made from rubber coated nylon cords called body plies. Usually made from polyester, the cord body gives the tire additional strength to hold up to wear and unexpected road conditions.

Inner Liner

Composed of solid rubber, the inner liner is the part of the tire that holds air. This is a crucial section of the innermost part of the radial cord body. While it is similar to an inner tube, modern passenger vehicle tires do not actually use inner tubes anymore.

Beads

This is the portion of the tire that holds the tire to the rim. Designed to keep the tire from moving out of place when the wheel rolls, they’re often made from high-tensile wire woven into rubber.

Bead Filler

This is a solid rubber compound inside the beads of the tire designed for added stability within the sidewall and bead area.

How to Read a Tire Sidewall

One of the most important skills that everyone needs to learn at some point in their adult life is how to read a tire sidewall. This important piece of the tire features all pertinent information that you need to know about the type, size, and diameter of a particular tire.

The six different parts of information on the tire sidewall are type, width, ratio, radial, wheel, and index. For example, the sidewall of a tire might have this written on the side:

P225/60/R17

In reading this, you would see that the type is P for passenger vehicle. The width of the tire is 225-millimeters. The aspect ratio is 60% as tall as it is wide. The R is for radial and 17 is the size of the wheel. Using this same formula, you can dissect any tire size written on the sidewall to determine whether a particular tire will fit your vehicle or not.

Comparing Different Types of Tires

When purchasing tires, it is important to know more than just the size. You want to ensure you’re buying the right type of tire for your particular vehicle and the conditions you’ll be driving in. For example, ice and snow conditions need a different type of type than dry roads or heavy mud. Here’s what you need to know.

Commercial Trucking Tires

These are the type of tires you see on large semi-trucks, fire trucks, and other forms of heavy equipment. They have a stiffer sidewall and heavier tread to accommodate their use in difficult weather conditions and even construction situations. These tires feature a heavier load rating to accommodate the size of the vehicle they are on.

Winter Tires

You can tell a winter tire by the coding “M+S” located on the sidewall. They have twice or more the number of tread sipes and feature a softer rubber compound that grips better in ice and snow conditions. Those who live in climates with rough winter conditions should consider using this type of tire during the cold season.

All-Season Tires

Also called an “AS” tire, all-season tires can be driven in any weather condition. This is one of the most popular types of tire for ordinary passenger vehicles. These are tires with a non-aggressive tread pattern that are generally original equipment on cars and trucks straight from the factory. The vast majority of tires available at local repair shops are classified as all-season tires.

Off-Roading or 4×4 Truck Tires

These tires can be classified as those for passenger vehicles or light trucks. They are specifically for situations where the vehicle is driven off paved roads in the sand or dirt. With an extremely aggressive tread pattern, they are specifically designed to keep from getting stuck in the mud.

SVI – Your Resident Auto Lift and Tire Changer Experts

Despite what most people might believe, there is far more to modern tires than just air inside of rubber. Whether you’re looking to buy new winter tires for your sedan or are looking for commercial ones with a meaty tread designed for a fire truck, it is important to know the various options available. By knowing this information, you can ensure you’re getting the right size and style for your needs every time.

Ready to learn more about how SVI International Inc. can help with all your commercial lift needs? Please contact us today.