An Easy Guide to Buying Car Hoists
When buying car hoists, it’s important to choose the right one for you. The selection process can be overwhelming, as there are many different weight capacities and hoist configurations on each car hoist. For this reason, it’s vital to do research and ask for recommendations so you end up with a car hoist that meets your requirements. Read on for an easy guide to buying car hoists.
Know the Different Types of Car Hoists
There are many different car hoists on the market, all with different features and abilities. The most common style is the 2 post car hoist that uses lift points on the frame and allows the wheels to hang freely from the suspension. This is one of the least expensive options and is perfect for temporary repairs. In comparison, 4 post car hoists are drive-on hoists that lift the whole vehicle whilst resting on its wheels. The vehicle can be jacked up off the ramp if the wheels or brakes need to be serviced. 4 post car hoists allow two cars to be worked on at once, as one can be stored underneath. Scissor hoists are strictly used for light duty applications and are only suitable for occasional use, while mobile hoists are used for heavy equipment and large trucks. Finally, in-ground hoists allow the mechanic to completely fit underneath the vehicle. These are an excellent solution for small spaces because they lift the vehicle by the frame.
Determine What Capacity You Need
Car hoists have a limit to what they can lift, and most of the time this is based on their weight lifting capacity. In order to find the right car hoist capacity for you, you need to consider your car now and any other car you may have in the future. If you prefer smaller cars, a light-duty hoist with a low weight capacity will be fine for your garage. However, if you prefer larger cars, you might consider a hoist with slightly more capable ratings. It’s also important to consider your budget, as light-duty car hoists are more affordable whereas heavy duty car hoists are more expensive.
Consider Your Available Space
When installing a car hoist, it’s important to think about ceiling height and the amount of floor space that you have available. Measure your ceiling height with a measuring tape to determine what type of car hoists will fit. The next step is to measure the available floor width of your garage or shop. 2 post car hoists will often have more versatility and options available. They require significantly more dedicated space, but are able to accommodate longer vehicles like trucks. If you don’t have room for a 2 post hoist or a 4 post hoist, it’s a good idea to opt for an in-ground or scissor lift car hoist.
Think of Maintenance Costs
Lastly, it’s important to think about the maintenance costs when buying a car hoist. Consider the number of moving parts, as the more parts that are involved, the higher the repair and maintenance costs. In saying this, 4 post car hoists require more frequent servicing and repairs compared to 2 post car hoists. This is because there are more parts involved that have to work together. You should also be prepared to have your hoist inspected annually by a certified professional.