The myth about four post lifts...

[DARK AGE 53]

We've all read where a four post lift is only good for changing oil, stacking and cleaning the undercarriage of your car. Well, I must be doing something wrong, here's a few of the things we've been able to do with the four post lift.

1. Front suspension.
2. Rear suspension.
3. Brakes.
4. Remove/install rear ends.
5. Remove/install transmissions.

Can't forget those oil changes and detailing the undercarriage, I'm not sure what you have planed for a lift but I can't complain about my four post lift.

I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong but I think I'll just keep doing it that way.

As far as safety I think the average shade tree mechanic is better off with a four post lift, I also wonder how many two post were installed incorrectly? JMO


Al

[Luckydevil]

don't four post and two post lifts raise the car using the same mounting points on the car?

[sca037]

Hi Al,

I don't think the consensus is that you can't do major work with a 4-poster, just that other types have strengths in some areas....especially when working on something that requires the wheel(s) be removed.

All types have their inherent advantages & disadvantages, eh?

Brian

[DARK AGE 53]

don't four post and two post lifts raise the car using the same mounting points on the car?

If I understand your question correctly the answer is no, a two post lifts from the undercarriage of a car while a four post is a drive on type. Besides www.backyardbuddy.com here's another excellent four post company. www.doublepark.net

[Luckydevil]

Ah, okay.

I have seen four post lifts at tire shops that lift at the sides of the undercarriage and still allow you to remove the wheels. Best of both worlds.

[Wile1Coyote]

Not sure about anyone else but my 4 post has a sliding jack tray for it so that I can remove any wheel(s) I want to and work on that\those areas.

To the excellent list above I will add, completly replace fuel system from the filter back and all new Brake Lines as well. I do have access to a two post at a friends shop but I find for most things the four post works just fine for me AND a two post cannot be moved out inot the driveway. So both styles have advantages and disavantages. The ultimate would be to have a two post for brake work etc... And a four post for detailing and other work. And I'd like a pit as well for oil changes and a Frame rack sure would be nice. :lol2:

Some day when I win the Lotto! ;)

[DARK AGE 53]

Wile 1 Coyote, Might be interesting to know what brand of lift you're using, I have a www.backyardbuddy.com lift.