Comfortable shed size for 4 post lift

[dtbingle]

My house has a 20x21 detached garage with 8' front wall and 6' rear wall. Due to codes, no room to make deeper or add another bay on the side. However, there may be enough room for a 1 bay "shed" in the backyard.

What's the general rule of thumb for working space around a 4 post lift? Specifically looking at the HD9 with 110.25" spacing from the outside of the posts.

I would like enough room to be able to comfortably remove wheels, brake work, detailing, etc. Given space constraints, the shed would be longer than it is wide. At the end wall, I'd need to fit a toolbox and 4' x 4' compressor pad.

 

[BoostedOne]

Minimum Id say you want 2 feet extra outside of the posts.
But that said, before you invest too much more time you might want to look at if your codes/ordinances have a limit on outside structures. In Orange Co, Fl(orlando) if its residential there is a 400 sq ft max on outbuildings. Anything more, you have to get a variance.

 

[dtbingle]

Minimum Id say you want 2 feet extra outside of the posts.
But that said, before you invest too much more time you might want to look at if your codes/ordinances have a limit on outside structures. In Orange Co, Fl(orlando) if its residential there is a 400 sq ft max on outbuildings. Anything more, you have to get a variance.

That's a good point. I know max you can build with NO permit is 120 sq ft and under with 14' building height. Not sure what permitted builds are allowed up to though. Given 2 ft on each side, that would mean a 14x24'ish build.

 

[Xander]

I just bought a 4 post, and like mentioned, at least 2' wider than the posts on the sides for sure, then you will want to keep that same 2' for the ramp end of the lift. I have mine right up against the door, I don't mind it, but I do have to take them off every time I lift it up to get around it. Then for in front of it, if you want a tool box, and a 4'x4' pad, you will need about5-6' in front of the posts. (enough for the compressor, and to get around.



FWIW my garage is 20 x 21 and it feels just about right in there.



x....

 

[polizei1]

I would say more like 3' on all sides, minimum, preferably more. It doesn't seem that tight until you start working!

 

[6768rogues]

I like to have enough room to slide an axle out.

 

[MrBalll]

You also need to factor in having a rolling toolbox or a rolling table to set your items and tools on when working. If you pull a tire will you lay it on the floor and step over it or put it up against the wall? With only two foot that will be tough to work with.

If you detail you need rags, tools and cream. This is where a tool cart can come in handy. Might be nice to have three to four foot on each side after the posts. Also so you can roll a cart around to the front of the shop to store it once done working.

 

[rsanter]

How about.building it like a post barn that the sides will open up or have sliding doors.
That way you could build it minimum size and when you open the sides you have a ton of space

Bob

 

[dtbingle]

I should've known posting on here about a 1 bay setup would lead to a standard 2-car garage size haha. The sad thing though, after doing some measurements, I don't think it would be as usable as I'd like unless it is close to 20x20 size.

How about.building it like a post barn that the sides will open up or have sliding doors.
That way you could build it minimum size and when you open the sides you have a ton of space

Bob

Not a bad idea, but somewhat leary of it given michigan climate.

 

[sleek98]

I would say minimum would be a 14x22 to fit the bench and compressor. That would mean you would need to take the ramps off and on to close the door.

 

[finn]

Remember, depending on the lift des, the power pack may hang outside of the post footprint.

I'd go with 16' outside dimension for width.