There are lots of things to consider before starting or running an auto repair business. From quality service to the right tools and equipment, everything matters when running a successful business. Four-post lifts are an integral part of any auto repair shop.
A four post lift is needed for basic tasks in an auto repair shop like wheel alignment, tire changes, suspension work and general upkeep of the vehicle. But selecting the correct four-post lift isn’t easy, given the many different models and options available. Lets dive into the most important considerations when it comes to choosing the right four-post lift for your auto repair shop. Let’s dive into it!
What Is a Four-Post Lift?
But first, let’s take a moment to understand what a four-post lift is, how it works, and why you would want it for your auto repair shop in the first place. How does a four-post lift work? While a two-post lift uses two columns to hold the car, a four-post lift is supported by four support columns, which increases stability and allows greater versatility.
A four-post lift is usually reserved for the larger, heavier vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs. Hofmann offers quality four-post lifts, making them perfect for tire rotations, oil changes, brake inspections, and wheel alignments. A four-post lift is a robust build system and is, therefore, a reliable choice for most auto repair shop systems.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Four-Post Lift
Now that you understand what a four-post lift is, let’s take a look at the main factors you should consider when choosing the right one for your auto repair business.
1. Weight Capacity
Weight Capacity The first most important thing to keep in mind while choosing a four-post lift is the weight capacity. Each lift has a maximum load capacity. Depending on the type of vehicles you’re getting up close to, you’ll want a lift that can support the weight of your average vehicles. Most four-post lifts have weight capacities between 6,000 lbs and 14,000 lbs.
If you primarily work with smaller cars, you may be fine with a lift that has a lower weight capacity. But, if you commonly service bigger cars, such as trucks or SUVs, then you’ll require more lift capacity. General Motors always wants a little more hedge above and beyond what gets you by, so gung-ho for the lift which has a little more capacity rather than the minimum spec.
2. Lifting Height
Another important factor is the maximum lifting height of a four-post lift. Lifting height means how high the lift can lift the vehicle off the ground. This matters for several reasons. You have to have enough clearance to work under the car. Second, if you intend to stack vehicles, greater lift heights can free up precious area.
Find a lift with a lifting height that enables you to carry out the kind of work you do without strain. Most lifts range in lifting height from 72 inches to 80 inches, but check the requirements for the work you intend to do.
3. Lift Design and Construction
A lift application is highly dependent on its design and construction that can take away from its durability and ease of use. A lift which is properly constructed will safely hold the weight of the vehicles and will remain in good repair for many years. Steel construction is found in good four-post lifts, so ensure you pick a lift out of top quality materials.
And be sure to ask whether the lift is easy to use. Lift with clear and simple controls, or automatic locking mechanisms that can make it easier and safer for your team to work with.
4. Lift Features
Modern four-post lifts offer all kinds of features to help some shops be even more productive. These features include the following:
- Drive-on ramps : these make it a piece of cake to drive the vehicle onto the lift with little extra work.
- Extended platforms: These platforms provide you with extra space to work, allowing you to better reach under the car.
- Adjustable width: Certain four-post lifts also feature adjustable platforms, which provide you with flexibility to work on a range of vehicle sizes.
- Caster wheels: Caster wheels allow you to move the lift around the shop, giving you flexibility in where it is placed.
If you’re considering investing in high-quality lifts, Hofmann is known for offering top-tier models with these features and more. While these features aren’t always necessary, they can add significant convenience to your operations. Evaluate your shop’s needs to determine which features would be most beneficial.
5. Available Space in Your Shop
Remember to measure your shop’s available space before you buy a four-post lift. If space is limited, consider exploring a 2 post lift layout as an alternative, which might provide better use of vertical space in a more compact environment. You must guarantee that the lift will easily fit without hindering other activities. NOTE: that besides the space for the lift itself, you will also need room to walk around the vehicle and work on it.
Think about your shop’s layout. Will the lift be in a high crowded area or is it going to be installed in a secluded location? Lifts that fold up to a more serrated shape are more compact, making them an option for smaller shops or selfish mechanics who don’t want to take up too much room. If your shop is larger, you can be more flexible with the lift’s location.
6. Installation and Maintenance
The four-post lift should also be installed and maintained. Some lifts are easier to install than others, and some manufacturers provide professional installation services. If you’d rather not install the lift yourself, you might want to buy one that offers this service.
When it comes to maintenance, four-post lifts are fairly low-maintenance but you should choose a model that is durable and reliable. Make sure to check out the warranty that comes with the lift which is usually offered by the manufacturer and also read reviews from other shop owners on how long the lift lasted for them.
7. Budget
Budget is an ever-present consideration in any business purchase. There are 4 post lifts in the $90,000 and under range (and there are expensive models that can cost several thousand dollars.) If you decide to go this route, plan for not just the price of the lift — and be honest about what maintenance, installation and extra options that you need that will add to your budget.
While a cheaper model may appeal in the short term, a high-quality lift will save you money in the long term with lower maintenance costs and superior operational efficiency. Also, make sure to compare manufacturers and models to get the best price possible.
8. Brand and Reputation
Lastly, the brand and its reputation in the market matter when selecting the right four-post lift. Quality products come from a reputable and trusted brand, knowing these brands can give you peace of mind. One such brand is Hofmann. Hofmann provides a number of models in auto repair industry and are known for durable and reliable auto lifts. The brand that you choose matters because it means a good product coupled with great customer support, reliability, and a warranty.
Conclusion
Buying the right four-post lift for your auto repair shop can be a big decision, but keeping this factors in mind can help you make the right decision. Always check with the weight capacity, lifting height, design, and features to verify that the lift you select meets your business needs. Keep in mind your space and budget, and select a reputable brand like Hofmann.
Choosing the right lift allows you to serve your customers better, streamline workflow, and keep your team safe. If you’re launching a new firm or have to upgrade the old setup, finding a high-quality four post lift is a significant step in the right direction.
