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At some point in the automotive lift discovery process, individuals in the market often overhear the terms “asymmetrical” and “symmetrical,” usually in the same sentence as “two-post.” If this describes you, excellent!

Asymmetrical and symmetrical lifts are two-post lifts, and determining which best fits your application begins with a comparison of both. In the content below, we will overview two-post lifts before comparing symmetric vs asymmetric lifts.

Two-Post Lift

Determining which specific lift, asymmetrical vs symmetrical lift, is best for your application begins with an understanding of two-post lifts in general.

Firstly, two-post lifts are incredibly common, found in most auto repair shops, especially drive-in stops. Vehicle enthusiasts with automotive repair knowledge may install a two-post lift in their personal garage for easy access. Two-post lifts are frame-engaging, meaning they use four adaptable arms to hoist vehicles at specific lifting points on the undercarriage. One primary reason for two-post popularity is range of use. Due to lifting capability, technicians and enthusiasts can easily perform undercarriage repair, including engine and transmission work.

Because two-post lifts are frame-engaging, access to the undercarriage is even possible in low-ceiling garages. Inevitably, two-post lifts are among the most ideal for a shop with a low ceiling. Two-post lifts are often used for light truck, van, and car repair, with a maximum lifting capacity of about 20,000 pounds, depending on the lift. Finally, two-post lifts are most often anchored to the ground during installation. If you plan to keep your lift sedentary, this aids in durability for long-term use.

Asymmetrical Lift

Simply put, asymmetrical lifts refer to the column or arm configuration of the lift. Asymmetrical lifts were designed to solve a problem in old, symmetrical lift variations. When in-ground and above-ground symmetrical lifts were installed next to each other the symmetrical lifts would encroach on the space, especially in an average lift bay. In response, many major lift manufacturers reduced the width between the columns – ultimately, creating a new problem. Vehicles barely fit inside the lift. Entering and exiting was difficult, cars were easily scuffed during work, and technicians struggled to complete projects. The solution: asymmetrical lifts.

Asymmetrical lifts feature shorter front arms and longer back arms for easy access. Before lifting, the four lift arms would be moved away from the vehicle. Technicians move the vehicle forward, until about 30% of the vehicle sat in front of the column while 70% sat behind. The shorter arms are positioned to specially designated lift points first, followed by the longer, rear lift arms. Asymmetrical lifts are created with heavy-duty rear arms to support the majority of the vehicle’s weight. Along with heavy-duty back arms, manufacturers rotated both columns 30 degrees, so the posts are angled outward while facing each other.

Ultimately, the asymmetric configuration solves the original issues. The driver’s front door opens wider, allowing for access into the vehicle, under the vehicle, and smooth transfer from the lift to the floor and vice versa.

Semi-Asymmetrical

Semi-asymmetrical lifts feature shorter front arms than rear arms; however, both center columns face each other directly.

Symmetrical Lift

As mentioned, most original two-post, above-ground lifts were entirely symmetrical. Symmetrical lifts feature four arms of equal lengths and two columns directly facing each other. Thus, the vehicle is positioned directly between the two posts, equally split 50% on both sides. On a symmetrical lift, pressure is equalized on the lift’s posts and carriage, designed to lift the vehicle in the middle. As compared to its asymmetrical counterpart, symmetrical lifts allow to a wider drive-through area, often utilized for pick-up trucks, vans, and wider vehicles or vehicles with a weighted rear.

Versymmetrical

We must mention a third, if less popular, variation of two-post lifts – because you may have heard the name. In theory, versymmetrical automotive lifts are the ideal combination of asymmetrical and symmetrical lifts. For example, the columns might face directly, but the arms may be asymmetrical. Versymmetrical lifts receive mixed reviews; some manufacturers declare versymmetrical lifts combine the worst aspects of asymmetrical and symmetrical lifts, a sort of hideous Frankenstein monster.

Door Protection

Both asymmetrical and symmetrical automotive lifts poise the risk of denting vehicle doors. This reality is unescapable. Even if technicians are extraordinarily careful, accidents happen. Thus, regardless of the two-post lift you choose, extra precaution should be taken to protect vehicle doors. DoorJammer car door protection is an excellent option. Specific benefits include:

• Elimination of costly damage (door dents, scratches, etc.), reduced stress, and the prevention of lost revenue.
• The device is trustworthy, award-winning, with a design patent.
• The product is fashioned with impact and energy absorbing foam.
• Technicians find it easier to enter and exit vehicles on hoists shielded with car door protection.
• Utilizing the product can also improve the appearance of your shop.
• The items are stocked and ready to ship immediately from one of SVI’s three cross-country warehouses.

Two-Post Repair Products

Regardless of the age of your lift – decades old or brand new – SVI International provides the repair parts required to extend the life of your auto lift. Among the items available for two-post lifts, SVI carries:

• Overhead stop limit components
• Equalizer and lifting cables and chain
• Power units and parts
• Lift installation and relocation supplies
• Auxiliary height extensions
• Rubber arm pads
• Complete lift arm assemblies and components
• Lift arm pins
• Arm restrain/ lock assemblies and parts
• Slider blocks and bearings
• Carriage locks and components
• Hydraulic cylinders
• Hydraulic seal kits
• Pulleys and sheaves

Any repair part you may require, SVI International has in in stock, ready to ship, or ready to craft by our fully degreed mechanical engineers.

Asymmetrical Lift and Symmetrical Lift at SVI International

At SVI International, we are passionate about solutions and innovation. As the leader in repair parts for automotive and industrial equipment, quality, shipment speed, and problem solving define our company. We are spread across the country with 3 warehouses, 40K repair parts, 50 product lines, and 2K distributors. For your company, we are the “can-do” solution.

To get in touch, contact our team today at (800) 321-8173 or via our online contact form!

While ATVs are often used for both recreational and industrial endeavors, it is crucial to regularly service ATVs for optimal use.

As you consider buying a lift for your equipment, such as an ATV, we don’t recommend buying on impulse. Alternatively, we recommend exploring your lifting options and learning about their benefits of before deciding on a particular make or model. In the content below, we discuss four benefits of an ATV lift for maintaining and repairing your small equipment machinery.

What is an ATV Lift?

An ATV lift is a type of small equipment shop maintenance (SESM) lift. Smaller in frame than a traditional auto lift, these lifts perfectly accommodate smaller equipment or vehicles such as ATVs, motorcycles, lawnmowers, golf carts, and more.

While it is important to properly utilize the lift machinery to effectively service your ATV, you must also consider protecting your auto lift investment. By doing so, your SESM lift will properly perform the following functions for an extended lifetime:

• Height adjustability
• Prevent tip overs during service via strategic tie down slots included in the platform
• Full access for front and rear wheel service
• Operates off shop-air compressor
• Load capacity extends from 1,000 to over 25,000 pounds, depending on the requirements of your specific application
• Designed to last a lifetime
• Improves productivity within the shop or garage
• The ability for 360-degree rotation allows for use between the work and the workbench
• When lowered, no obstruction exists, ideal for parking directly over the lift
• Superior operation and safety compared to above-ground scissor lifts
• Optimal for a beautiful platform and ideal for showroom displays

4 ATV Lift Benefits

This lift type offers countless applications from cleaning to showcasing. However, in terms of servicing your ATV and other small machinery, equipment, or vehicles, there are four main benefits to utilizing an ATV lift.

#1. Ease of Service and Visibility

Like servicing any portion of a vehicle, auto lifts help the mechanic view every component with ease. Similarly, whoever makes the repairs to your ATV must be able to clearly detect and identify every gear and leak. With the installation of an ATV lift, both routine maintenance and emergency repairs will take a fraction of the time.

#2. Comfortable Work Environment

Servicing and maintaining ATVs demands priority before returning them to their original rotation. However, as vehicles and small motored equipment are serviced, repair technicians often need to bend down or work on their knees to repair a specific motor or other components. As repairs are continually made, mechanics can experience chronic pain, fatigue, or even lasting injury.

Therefore, effectively prevent injury and inconvenience by using ATV lifts to make repairs simpler and more time-effective. With the option of adjustment, it can be brought to any desired height and increase the technician’s comfort level and safety. Furthermore, certain hydraulic SESM lifts collapse into the floor. This feature allows a safe process of parking the ATV directly on top of the lift.

#3. Storage

Like four-post automotive lifts, ATV lifts can provide convenient storage during time in which you leave your ATV idle. For example, if you do not ride during the winter, your ATV can be stored on the lift itself to create more available floor space below. Limited obstruction is an essential feature for shops and home garages alike.

Lift storage prevents air pressure loss in the tires and any unwanted de-conditioning while not in use. Therefore, by storing your ATV on the lift, you increase the likelihood of it remaining in the same condition later in the year.

#4. Load Capacity

Hydraulic SESM lifts are manufactured to sustain and effectively lift a load capacity of nearly 2,000 pounds. However, to ensure lift safety, be sure to select an ATV lift that can withstand double the weight of your heaviest ATV. By doing so, you will ensure a safe and secure maintenance process while utilizing the lift.

Discover ATV Lift Benefits at SVI International

Finding a reliable auto lift supplier with high-quality products doesn’t have to be difficult. At SVI International, we are the industry’s leading supplier of repair parts for all types of automotive lifts.

Besides traditional, everyday parts, SVI is known in the industry as the problem solver – tackling specialty lift concerns with innovative products. Our supply of high-quality products can play a significant role in protecting your auto lift investment.

We’re just a phone call away. If you have questions, concerns, or need help placing an order, please reach out at (800) 321-8173 or via our online contact form.

Auto lifts are very safe machines when used correctly. However, there is a potential for danger if they are not used correctly. To ensure both you and your employees are safe when using an auto lift, you should follow the established safety protocol. This article lays out the common safety rules for using an auto lift. Read on to learn more about safely using an auto lift.

Inspect Your Lift Daily

One of the most important things you can do to ensure safe auto lift operation is to inspect your lift daily. While this may seem a little excessive at first, it is important to note that your auto lift’s parts can break or go out of alignment without you noticing. Thoroughly inspecting the auto lift every day ensures that it will be safe to use for the next day of work.

Make Repairs Promptly

If one of the parts on your auto lift breaks or wears out, it is important to make repairs promptly. Putting off repair or replacement can not only keep the lift from working as it should, but it may also create a dangerous work environment. Even if it seems like a minor repair, you should take care of the problem before using the lift again.

Don’t Override or Block Open Controls

Auto lifts generally have self-closing lift controls. This functionality ensures that the auto lift can be operated safely. However, some people are in the habit of overriding or blocking open controls. This may seem like a more convenient way to use the lift, but it is unsafe. It is important to never override or block open the controls of your auto lift.

Never Use the Lift with People Inside the Car

This tip may seem like a no-brainer, but every year people become injured because they were in a car that was being lifted and an accident happened. Using the lift when there are people inside the car is dangerous for multiple reasons.

Firstly, if a person is inside the car when it is being lifted, the vehicle’s center of gravity will be altered. This makes the vehicle unstable on the lift. Secondly, anybody inside a car that has been lifted risks falling off the lift and injuring themselves if they try to get down before the car has been lowered. Keep your team safe during work and always adhere to this rule.

Keep the Lift Area Clean & Clear of Debris

It is important to always keep the lift area clean and clear of debris. If someone slips and bumps into the auto lift, this could be dangerous. Of course, it is likely that a quality auto lift would hold a vehicle securely enough so that bumping into the lift will not cause any harm. Still, it is important to keep the lift area (and the rest of your work area) free from debris and residue to prevent avoidable accidents.

Be Careful to Avoid Hitting the Adaptors, Axle Supports, & Lift Arms

When positioning the vehicle on the lift, it is important to avoid hitting the adaptors, axle supports, and lift arms. If you hit the lift, this could damage the components. Even if the impact does not actually damage the components, it could knock them out of alignment, potentially preventing the lift from working properly or creating a safety hazard in the future.

Position Lift Supports According to the Vehicle Manufacturer’s Specifications

Every vehicle has different specifications for the placement of the lift supports. It can be easy to assume that all vehicles have the same specifications when it comes to positioning the lift supports, but this assumption can lead to an unsafe work environment, unsteady vehicles, and potentially deadly accidents.

In January of 2020, a Hartford, Connecticut mechanic was mortally injured when a vehicle fell of a lift and onto him due to poor vehicle-lift positioning. Even if it seems like a pain, it is important to check the manufacturer’s specifications for each vehicle you place on the lift in order to avoid any and all safety issues.

Remove Materials Before Lowering the Lift

While the vehicle is up on the lift, there will inevitably be tools, parts, and more items under the vehicle. It can be easy to forget something when you go to lower the vehicle back down. This is why you should always double-check to ensure that nothing remains under the vehicle before you lower it. Failing to do so can result in both damaged vehicles and broken equipment. 

Contact SVI International, Inc. for High-Quality Lift Parts

If you need high-quality lift parts, SVI International, Inc. is here for you. We make a wide selection of parts for most of the auto lift models on the market. We also make parts for auto lifts that are no longer available from the manufacturers.

You can contact us through our website to learn more about our services and the parts we offer. One of our knowledgeable associates will contact you promptly to give you the information you need about our parts and services. Contact us today for all of your auto lift part needs.

Auto shops and garages alike are dedicated to providing the best services to their clients in an efficient and timely matter. Doing so begins with choosing the right garage lifting equipment.

Have you recently opened a garage repair shop and need help deciding on a new piece of lifting equipment? Are you a veteran in the auto industry and ready to expand your shop with new garage lifting equipment? We can help! Below, we discuss our top five lifts and garage lifting equipment that are versatile, durable, and highly effective for your auto shop needs.

Before Selecting your Garage Lifting Equipment

While shopping for different garage lifting equipment, there are several things to know and consider prior to purchasing a lift. Below are three important aspects to examine before you choose which model to purchase.

Your Shop’s Ceiling Height

Before buying a lift for your garage, consider the height of your workspace. Does it have low ceilings? To ensure a safe lift installation, your garage’s ceiling height must measure at a minimum of 11 or 12 feet, with clearance for overhead hazards such as lights and fire alarms. The higher the ceiling is, the wider selection of auto lifts you can choose from.

Available Floor Space

Although ceiling height may not be a cause for concern in your garage, assess the remaining floor space available for the installation of a new auto lift. You may purchase the greatest lift for your garage only to find out it is physically impossible to feasibly install it in your cramped floor space.

Have you considered how much space an auto lift needs? It is imperative that you measure as many times as needed for you to guarantee that a lift will not only fit, but also provide the necessary room to adequately service vehicles. If you are unsure about the minimum space requirement for your new auto lift, consider contacting a local and reliable installer.

The Intended Purpose of Your Lift

Consider the most common vehicle types your garage services. Are they pickup trucks, motorcycles, or traditional, compact and SUV cars? Making a wise auto lift purchase depends on assessing and determining your typical load capacity, needed lift height, and desired lift speed.

Auto Lifts for Home Garage

Once you determine your available ceiling height, floor space, and the intended purpose of your garage lifting equipment, it is time to explore the most reliable, durable, and efficient lifts.

#1. 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.

#2. 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. These lifts are built either symmetrically or asymmetrically.

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. Therefore, two-post lifts must be bolted to the floor, eliminating easy mobility. If the lift will remain put, this will not be an issue.

#3. Four-Post Lifts

The four-post lift is commonly considered the most popular and versatile car lift 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.

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 do not 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. Furthermore, four-post lifts can double as storage, allowing for two cars stacked in the same location.

#4. 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.

#5. 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.

Find the Right Auto Lift for Your Shop at SVI International

Are you still searching for an auto lift that is best for your auto shop? Finding a reliable auto lift supplier with high-quality products does not have to be difficult.

At SVI International, we are dedicated to quality. As industry leaders in repair parts for automotive and industrial equipment, we offer 40,000 repair parts from 50 product lines. Our products are distributed between 3 warehouses, scattered across the country, allowing for fast, reliable shipping.

Beside repair parts, we are known as the problem solver in the industry. We understand custom. Whether you’re looking for specialty lifts, repair parts, or innovative products, we welcome you to reach out today. Contact us today at (800) 321-8173 or by submitting our online contact form.