Bendpak 4 Post Lift Help, Which One? (About to Order, Have a C5 Vette)

I have both. The delta is probably closer to 50%, but in the worst case won't cost the 110v user more than 30 additional seconds.

If you lift several times a day or already have 220v, then that voltage makes sense. For the home/infrequent (ie less than 1x day) user, 110v is just fine.

All IMHO

Other Option is BendPak 7P (WIDE). With a slight revision, The WIDTH would be extended to 109 3/4" Wide.

It has the same overall HIGH lift height as the HD-9XW (82"), the same runway length as the HD-9 (164") which my C5 Corvette fits on, and most other cars too as my vette is LONG.

And finally, (Post to Post) is the same WITHOUT the RAMPS ON as the standard HD-9
which is (174").

OVERALL Length with Ramps is 189" , as compared to an overall length with Ramps of 200" for an HD-9. I am not sure why the over all length WITH ramps on is different between a 7P and HD9?? That is what the pecs say?
Maybe the approach ramps are shorter???


What do you guys think?? I get width I need, highest lift, and it give me the most room for my garage.

I hope the 7P has the same size posts and ramps. I want it to be Beefy like the HD's.....

It lifts less weight, but that is a function of the PUMP being less (1500 PSI)!!! NO difference to structural integrity or capacity of the frame of the lift itsel.

It is still good for 9,000 lbs (from talking to Bendpak). The 7,000 pound lift rating is based on the pump (1500 PSI). I could get the 3,000 PSI Pump it raises it to 8,000 lbs capacity. ALL my cars, heck even a Suburban 9which I don't have), doesn't weight 6,000 lbs!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am REALLY almost done here guys.

Bandit.....................


So WHAT do you guys think of the bendPak 7P (Wide)?

I am planning to order today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Why order today? Stuff is just going to sit till next week! Wait and see what people thing of this idea first. I think you should get the HD 9 series, I am leaning to the XW model in 220 volts for you. It will hold value better and be easier to sell if you want.

OK, this is weird but I'm looking for a lift and narrowed it down to the same two brands. I been waffling at the PP9 plus since a local Portland company, PDX Possy carries them. But I've been also looking at the Bendpak HD-9 varients [there are a bunch ;^) ]and they look very well made.

Since I'm **** (but in a good way) I made a table of the long "wider" varients of the Bendpak and PP models. I noticed the PPs give the full capacity rating at roughly 100" wheel bases (101" for PP9 plus) but the long versions of the Bendpak are only 50% of the rated capacity at a 95" inch wheelbase, but 100% at 135" wheelbase.

Basically the Bendpaks specs seems to state that they lose half their rated capacity by reducing the wheelbase by 40", or 112.5 lbs of capacity per inch of wheel base under 135". This mean a ~100 inch wheel base vechicle on the Bendpack long model is roughly a loss of 3900 lbs capability, or only 5100 lbs of lift capacity left.

Is this just specmanship, something the lawyers added for warantly wiggle room or a real difference between the to brands of lift?

Thanks,
Ron

I think Jeff from bend pak should chime in here!. My thinking is bend pak is very conservative on there numbers for safety and the PP 9 plus is not. I also was comparing the Bend Pak HD 9 XW vs PP 9 Plus. The Bend Pak won hands down IMOH! That said they both are good lifts, but Bend Pak has a better warranty and customer service that is outstanding.

Yes, feedback from BP Jeff would be ideal. I checked the numbers a couple to times and still got a "Hmmmmm...".

There are those of us that have short wheelbase vechicles that happen to be heavy, like a modified IH Scout (100" wheelbase). Last time I went to weight it, I had a full tank (33 gals) and my *** in it (200 lbs) and truck weighted in at just over 5K, with the larger motor, heavy axes, larger tires, bumpers, frame mounted sliders, etc.

I got curious and when looking at the shipping weight for the BP HD-9XW 2040 lbs) vs the PP9+ (2350 lbs) ... assuming similar crating material... there an extra 300 lbs of 'something' in the PP9+. Perhaps *way* *lots* of packing peanuts. ;^)

Thanks,
Ron

To all my fellow Garage enthusiasts who have stayed with me on my long winded, picture intensive, indecisive, back n forth, exciting journey to get the right lift for my garage. I really do appreciate it!

I talked to Jeff tonight and can't say enough GREAT things about him. As far as I'm concerned, he's a friend. Invited him over next time he heads to Texas.

OK, I think I have made a decision and wanted to give you guys where what I plan to do. I am posting here to share mainly, and to possibly gain any additional information from all you great guys on this forum. I can't thank you guys enough for all your time and effort to help me. Without all of your pictures, e-mails, PM's, and advice, I would never have got to where I am today.

As you have also discerned, I am a picky SOB (and at times, a P.I.T.A.) and take my time to make sure I do it right so I can have the end result I will be happy with. This whole project is going to cost a lot of money when you consider all the components I need, (High Lift GD, Opener, 220 Volt Power, Air Compressor, Lift, Accessories, Installation, etc etc.).

However, this time I decided to do it right. I drove my 99 Pathfinder for the last 8 years and surpassed 250K,000 miles a few months back before it was officially retired, so I'm not one to drop money easily. Heck, my Corvette is a 2001 with 34K miles. I'm not complaining, but just saying I don't see another Toy in my future for a long time, especially with a 3 year old little girl now. I will be very appreciative and happy that I am getting a lift and will really enjoy it for many years to come. (Did I mention earlier, I was long winded at times, S$%^........) let's get down to it!!!!!!!!!!


What am I geting???????????????????????????



Getting "HD-7W" (Revision M)
"M" means Width is 109 3/4" vs. standard 116 3/4 of a HD-9 and the like.

Lifts 82" High (Perfect)
174" Long (w/o ramps) same as HD-9, so it will easily fit in my garage WITH Ramps!
Getting larger pump 3000 PSI vs. standard pump for this lift which Lifts 8,000pounds now. Don't need it, but you never know?

*220 Volt Power (*Why Not, easily accessible Braker Box, have a guy that can do it cheap, and won't move lift ever)

Mounting Motor my Motor on Rear Left post (Driver's side Left front Tire) where all my power is located. Might change this, but this keep cord out of the way. Th efront Right (Passangers right rear tire) would be great, but I would have a long cord to contend with and it wouldn't look as clean.

Motor will be mounted on NORTH side of Rear Left Post.
*Option for mounting motor is either on the North or South on Post.

Accessories I am getting:
Aluminum Ramps
Drip Trays

Accessories I MIGHT get (leaning toward):

RJ45 Rolling Jack I know, I know; CRAZY!



I Figure I am going to do brake work, oil changes, and other minor stuff on all 3 cars. I might as well make it easy and I will be thankful to have a quick push of a button to raise and lower my car.


Other considerations & Info:

Might glue rubber thin rubber squares to the bottom of each of the 4 posts to help it from sliding (With 3M Yellow Glue). My garage is slick with the Epoxy Paint. I read a few people doing this sand Jeff said a customer of his with a Ferrari did the same thing. Any guys that did this (Please Chime on what you used and where you got it, the thickness etc.)

If I decide the lift needs it, I'll go to the next step and add bolts on the front Right and back Rear Post for additional stability. I think that is all it will take to be sturdy.

However, I want to see if I need it first after the lift is actually installed, and also want to make sure the lift is in the exact location that I am going to be happy with for a long time. I ain't moving this thing!

Ordered a Lift Master 3800 Jack Lift Garage door opener a few days ago (will be here soon) and am finalizing my plans for the high lift garage door added so I can take advantage of my 13 foot ceilings. Already talked to several people and one guy knows his stuff and I might just let him do it.

Adding 220 Volt Power. As many of you know, Almost went 110, but might as well get the biggest motor they make since I am going to have this lift a long time and do not plan to move it around. 110 is easier and convenient, but once my 220 is in, it's in and I will be happy I did that.


In summary, I think this lift will satisfy all my needs, and THEN some! It will lift high, accommodate my C5 Vette , hold any other Car/SUV I own or will own, and fit in my garage easily.

The jack I am still debating because the money is dwindling. If my wife really knew how much all this cost, I wouldn't be getting the lift. She is nice, but there's a limit


YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH Think I'm Fianlly Done!!!!!!!!!!

Of course, pictures to follow on the whole thing..............


What do you guys think?

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and your families tomorrow!

The Bandit............

I can say I dicked around for 3 years looking at lifts, comparing specs, prices, accessories, etc. After I finally pulled the trigger and I used a couple times I completely forgot about all the concerns, and the amount of money spent. The only thing I wished I had done different would have been to buy it a couple years earlier.

The RJ45 is a great to work with, it's very fast and I use it all the time. You can also likely get a better deal when buying and shipping on the same order as the lift as I did. I was on the fence because of the cost, but after owning it for a few years now, I can't recommend it enough.

Good Luck, I'm sure you'll be happy with the purchase!

I'm curious where all the " rev m" specs are on BP's site? I would definitely be interested in a lift that is is a bit wider than narrow, is high lifting, and not very long. I too went to the 7k series as their dimensions made more sense for me but a quick check on prices showed the 7k stuff to be significantly more expensive? So I'm in a holding pattern at the moment! Glad you were able to get your lift sorted!

Angelfire said:

I'm curious where all the " rev m" specs are on BP's site? I would definitely be interested in a lift that is is a bit wider than narrow, is high lifting, and not very long.

Click to expand...

"Rev M" specs are not on the web site yet. It is something Jeff was considering and when Bandit wanted something narrower than the HD9, Jeff made a proposal for the narrower 9 official. Basically BP is just making narrower cross pieces, everything else is the same. I believe Jeff designed it for the 9 series, but I am guessing from what Bandit is doing that it will also work with the 7 series. Bandit and I have posted in this thread what the "M" specs are. I am considering the HD-9M for my shop, I don't need extra height or length, I will be talking with Jeff next week to finalize.

KET-TEK (I forgot you’re a Corvette Brother from the CV Forum....LOL I used to post all the time back in the day, but fell off. Been on there since 2001, when I got my C5.
The RJ-45 is a Beast (weighs 300 lbs) and although I am not as mechanical as some, I have done a lot of the mods to my vette that aren't engine related. I just figured when I want to raise the car, I want easy! Do you just raise one side of your Vette (other car) and leave it on the jack raised up while you take off tires (Heard it locks into position???) or do you raise it up. then put jack stands under it?

I made those homemade lifting Pucks for my Vette with the 2 glued hockey Pucks and eye bolts. Work great, but never use them anymore. I will now though!!!

Also, I never had an air compressor before, so with the RJ-45, and an air ratchet gun, it will make things easy.

I am not sure how the RJ-45 works. I know you hook up air to it to make it work. I guess you just connect the air hose on the RJ-45 jack whenever you plan to use it. It isn't permanently attached is it?? I assume you just need 1 air compressor for both lowering the lift and using the jack. maybe you let the lift down, take off the air hose, and plug it into the jack....

One reason I got it now (when I really didn't need another expense on this project), is the fact that IF I am ever going to get it, might as well get it NOW, so I am done!

The MAIN REASON is I want my installer to install it and hook it up correctly so I know how the heck it works.

I am so darn excited right now. Heck, I was happy for weeks (still am) over my little epoxy garage floor project. The best money I ever spent!! Every time I look at it, I absolutely Love it! The Lift I will be happy for years I bet. Many smiles to come.

Think when the high lift garage door opens and disappears into the sky ("where did the damn garage door go Billy Jack???", then there is a beautiful Blue (Damn I love that friggin color so much) Bendpak Lift with a car sitting on top of it; Sheer Greatness.
I will be like a poor Jay Leno.......


Yes, the "M" revision isn't officially out, but should be a standard offering in their line very soon.

Jeff (being the nice guy that he is), stepped in to make a customer happy (by taking time to reach out to me on this thread to offer solutions) and save a sale as I almost went elsewhere. The main reason I was not getting the BP, was in my situation the width was just a bit too long and the narrowest version was not wide enough.

This "M" will fill in the GAP for most and allow more choices to maximize your utilization of space. I still think their HD-9/ HD-9XW will be popular choices, and the M will just add depth to their line for certain situations.

People always said buy BendPak, they are such a great company. I appreciated that, but being the Cheap B@#$%^& I am, never really appreciated that value proposition, UNTIL I had the opportunity to work with everyone at BendPak and Jeff.

Jeff is busy and is high up in the company and usually out working all over the country. He likes to WIN and make customer happy and that is why he has been there 30 years. A happy customer tells 10 people about their experience, an unhappy ones tells 100. I'll try to tell 101 on how GOOD my experience was!

I won't name names, but I went to a place in person and would have bought, but they didn't seem to care. I walked out of there like I was bothering them. Heck, I knew more than they did (as I researched the **** out of everything) and that right there made me START to change my mind. But I was like, OK I have no date to the dance, I'll take the less than attractive date vs. going solo, at least I'm not slow dancing with a Broom.

Then while at SEMA (I am sure he was extremely busy), Jefftook time to contact me just in time, and the rest is almost history.........

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bandit...

P.S. I just realized my posts are WAY TOO LONG!!!!!!!!! Short and sweet next time!

One thing I realized thanks to RAY PM'ing me. If my Lift is close to the Wall, it might be hard to use BOTH sides of the RJ-45, as I would be too close to the wall to have enough room to get my tire off and do work on both sides..............

However, with the shorter Width, I might be able to position it away from the wall enough (permanently) to work.

My Other option is to Get the Casters and push it out as needed for work.

Also, as the last resort, since I won't do THAT MUCH work on a consistent basis (just brakes, etc), I can Always Work on one side at a time, put the tire back on, then drive my car off and back on lift the Other Way to work on the other side. They call that trick "The Poor Man's Garage Extention".

ronstory said:

Since I'm **** (but in a good way) I made a table of the long "wider" varients of the Bendpak and PP models. I noticed the PPs give the full capacity rating at roughly 100" wheel bases (101" for PP9 plus) but the long versions of the Bendpak are only 50% of the rated capacity at a 95" inch wheelbase, but 100% at 135" wheelbase.


Is this just specmanship, something the lawyers added for warantly wiggle room or a real difference between the to brands of lift?

Thanks,
Ron

Click to expand...

I too had similar concerns as I have a jeep wrangler at around 4800lbs (and likely to gain weight in the next year. I asked BP via their web contact form and got this:

"The minimum wheelbase chart is there to assist you in positioning your vehicle on the lift.*@#$ The HD-9ST or the HD-9STX would be able to lift and store your Jeep Wrangler without a problem.*@#$ By putting a wheel base chart we can advise customers that it is not safe to put a “forklift” on your automobile lift.*@#$ A fork lift has a very small wheelbase with weight ranging from 6000-9000 lbs and the HD-9 series is not designed for that application."

ixlr8 said:

Bandit and I have posted in this thread what the "M" specs are.

Click to expand...

I've seen some of the dimensional info you guys posted and that has been helpful. Being ****, I was looking for the rest of the specs particularly the wheelbase/capacity stuff. Oh, and the small item called "cost".

2001RedCoupeBandit said:

Yes, the "M" revision isn't officially out, but should be a standard offering in their line very soon.

Click to expand...

Yeah it appears these "m" revs haven't filtered down within the company yet as the CS person I was dealing with indicated the only offerings available are on their website. No worries though as I'm not in a hurry. Curious to know how the price of the "m" rev compares to their standard offerings?

If nothing else, I have to thank you as it appears you pursued dimensions that seem to align with what I would like. So thank you for driving for a solution!

I don't think you'll be disappointed with your choice. I have a ten year old Bend-Pak four post lift, 7000 pound capacity, and it lifts my 6000 pound truck with ease. Although I could have opted to wire it for 220V, it works fine on a dedicated 20A 110V circuit and has been trouble-free. Under each post I installed a piece of scrap vinyl flooring to reduce marring of the floor.

Installation and assembly was a breeze- took me one day and I was in business.

Enjoy your new lift.

You will not be disappointed in the RJ-45 rolling jack! I say get it, it will be cheaper with shipping if it all ships together. When I got my HD9-XW I ordered 1 rolling jack. When it arrived I was impressed with the quality that I ordered a second one and some other bend pak stuff (wheel dollies) or go carts as they call them. If you order 2 they have a air line kit to connect both to one air source.

Angelfire said:

I've seen some of the dimensional info you guys posted and that has been helpful. Being ****, I was looking for the rest of the specs particularly the wheelbase/capacity stuff. Oh, and the small item called "cost".

Click to expand...

From the information I have gathered from Jeff, all dimensional info, wheelbase/capacity stuff is the same as the corresponding 9 series. Be it the HD-9, the HD-9XW or the HD-9XL; they are just 7 inches narrower. I don't have cost numbers yet, that is one of the items I will be discussing with Jeff next week. In my emails with him, I am under the impression the "M" series will be slightly cheaper than the regular series but I have no actual $$ numbers from Jeff to back that up. Hopefully Jeff will post an answer to the cost questions.. or I can let you know after I talk with him.

Thanks Jim. I've got a PM into him now but with the holidays I'm not expecting to hear from him until next week. I thought it odd that the 7k lifts were more expensive than the 9k versions so thought I'd better check this out!

Sorry for the delay in responding. Too much….dare I say it……. tryptophan I guess. ;>)

HD-7P and HD-7W / Why the shorter overall length?
These models are the only lifts in our lineup that have fixed stubby ramps as illustrated below. Why fixed stubby ramps? These lifts were primarily designed for large volume parking clients with very space-critical requirements. Due to upcoming ETL certification, these short fixed stubby ramps will soon be replaced by standard approach ramps and the overall length will then be identical to our corresponding 9K models. I suspect ETL certification will be finalized within the next two months.



HD-7P and HD-7W / Why only 7K capacity?
These models are configured as high (82”) rise with short length runways. They feature a pull-block system that allows for a shorter stroke cylinder equipped to fit in the shorter length runways. Structurally, all components (except for the cylinder and pull block) are identical to our 9K lift models so you’re not getting a less durable lift. In order to get two-to-one lifting with the shorter cylinder the lifting capacity is sacrificed due to the hydraulics – nothing else.



Why do 7K models cost more?
There is more engineering involved with these units and typically a lower volume seller. However, with the popularity of these lift models growing pricing will soon be reduced more closely with our 9K models come first of the year. Our dealers will be advertising the new lower pricing shortly.

What about the upcoming “Rev M” models? What, Why and When?
What – we currently have three “wide” models in our 9K lineup – HD-9, HD-9XL and HD-9XW. The overall width at the baseplates on these current models is 116-3/4”. These units will soon be narrowed 7” AT THE POWER SIDE RUNWAY as illustrated below.




Why – after studying varying vehicle widths from Vipers, trucks and small sports cars we determined that the extra space outside of the runway on the POWER SIDE is not really needed – and in tight garage spaces or when pulling other cars next to your lift, 7” can be a valuable gain.
When – blueprints are being finalized this month. Our factories should be in full production with the Rev M models by mid-February 2013. I will do my best to work with those who require the Rev M prior to the February rollout.

Here's the info on our upcoming REV M 9K models. A two-page PDF with all 9K models listed for comparison. (The same REV M width change will be applied to the HD-7W lift as well).
http://www.bendpak.com/BendPak_HD-9_Series_Four_Post_Lifts_REV_M.pdf

Why these strange specifications? Wheelbase @ Rated Capacity, Wheelbase @ 75% Capacity, Wheelbase @ 50% Capacity and Wheelbase @ 25% Capacity
We are simply COA – specmanship and legalese all combined into a simple formula. The specs we show are not based on ultimate failure - they are very liberal and safe working dimensions relative to runway length. We are extra cautious considering any strange vehicle configuration like airport tugs, forklifts etc. When we choose published lifting capacities based on wheelbase dimensions we also consider that same short vehicle raised on a set of two rolling jacks which would be worst case scenario. If others list dimensions that appear to be more favorable, I can assure you they are not built any stronger or more durable. They are just less concerned about anomaly considerations/situations like we are.

Hope this helps.

Jeff
BendPak

Bandit--

Congrats! Great lift, should fit your targeted uses perfect. Send photos.

Jeff--

Thanks for the explanation. I understand the need to be conservative on paper and with my Scout II it will put me right at the limit of it's "spec'd" capacity, which makes make the engineer in me a bit nervous. ;^)

The idea if having "just right" width of 100"ish between the post sound like a great idea. During the lift shopping over the last two years, there seems to be lifts with 90"ish between the post and then 15-18" wider which is a bunch wider. Who knows, the 100" width between the post could be Goldilock's size.

Still looking at the HD-9XW, PP9+ and now HD-9XW (rev. M). I'll give you a shout before I decide one way or another.

Thanks,
Ron

Thanks Jeff! Great Info. I will be getting their M revision soon and will let everyone know how it goes. I am excited and don't anticipate any issues. Jeff and the Bendpak team have been extremely professional and responsive in my quest for a perfect lift.



I have a few questions on the air hook ups on the lift and RJ-45 that I may start in a new thread as this post on has gotten really long.

I am trying to figure out if I need to buy any connections (myself from Home Depot or through BP) in order to have the air go into my lift for BOTH the release requirement and or the actual RJ-45 slinging Jack. I want to have both connected all the time so the RJ-45 jack is always ready and the lift release is always ready.

I am hoping the air connections reside in one centralized area on the lift, BUT, am NOT SURE how to make this happen? Does the lift and jack come with connections for air, OR am I silly supposed to buy certain fittings and air hoses to accomplish this?

I saw one picture for the RJ-45 that had a Blue coiled air hose connected to the jack and the other female end at the front of the lift.

It allowed the jack to slide along the length of the lift with the coiled air hose connected to the jack and at the the front, the blue coiled hose was connected to a red air hose at the front of the lift. I'm not sure how the normal air would be connected at the same time in order to operate the normal air release AND the RJ-45 Sliding Jack????

I want to know and source all the parts for the installer in advance.
I am going to have my 220V power outlet installed in the ceiling above the front left post (where the motor will go). He said use a 30 Amp TWIST LOCK (It's a Plug that you twist and it locks together so it won't get pulled out!

That way the electrical plug from the BendPak Motor will go above the pole and plug into the ceiling where my 220Volt Power Outlet will be. That way, it's totally out of the way and I won't have I walk over the cord. I was thinking of that before, bu tnow, it makes total sense to do that. If I ever move the lift, I'll just get a longer extention cord.


Thanks

The Bandit...................

"2001" I have two rolling jacks with the air line kit from bend pak. Both jacks connect to a T and then there is only on e air line connected to operate both of the jacks like at a pro shop.

RoadDog. Thanks. I am Just getting ONE! I dont do that much work (but plan to now, as I have the soluion and way to do it).

I'm still not sure exactly what I need. I am looking for a picture. I gues I don't need the sliding jack connected at all times to an air source, BUT, want the jack to have a Coiled air hose so it is able to slide back n forth the length of the lift. Then, I'll have the end of the connection (The opposite end of the air coiled hose that is connected to the jack) located at the front of the lift where I can just PLUG it in to my air source with a connector.

I am looking for a picture so I knwo exactly what I am supposed to get. I want it to look CLEAN!

I have two RJ7 jacks. Both are plumbed together under the runway. But I installed a 3/16" stainess steel plastic covered cable to guide the coiled plastic hoses for each jack. The coiled hoses were always hanging and flopping around so the cable took care of that poor design issue.

Thanks, Very Smart Idea!!!!!!!!! Great Job!

Love Pictures!! They quickly tell the story.

This thread is making me want to contact Jeff at BendPak in a baaadd way. Maybe he can help me figure out if he has a product to work in my space.

I can't even imagine how awesome a lift must be.

Bandit Finally Placed his BendPak Order Today (11-23-2012)






Summary of Order:



(1) BendPak HD-7W 4 Post Lift (Rev. M)
(109-3/4" OA Width / 82"Lift / Runway Length same as HD-9)

(1) RJ-45 4500 Lb Capacity Rolling Bridge Jack / Low-Profile

(1) set Plastic Drip Trays / Set of Two / Fits HD-7 and HD-9 Series Lifts

(1) set Aluminum Ramp Kit Upgrade / Fits BendPak HD-7 & 9 Series Lifts

(1) set of 4 BendPak Portable Caster Kit

To Be Completed/Purchased/ Installed in the next 2 weeks:


High Lift Garage Door Conversion Completed and Lift Master 3800 Jack Lift Garage Door Opener installed.

220 Volt Power Outlet Wired & Installed on Garage Ceiling
(Above Driver's side Left Front Post where I will plug in my lift). Additional 110 Volt Outlet installed for New Lift Master 3800 Garage Door Opener.

Purchase an Air Compressor (I am going to get a Good One, capable of running all air tools I would use. (Suggestions)


Purchased late Morning Today after Black Friday Rush:

Purchased Craftsman 8 Gallon Stainless Steel Tank, 4 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac today (Black Friday $59.99). Looked Cool, fits on the 20" of raised concrete space in front of lift and had Good Reviews



Purchased this Craftsman Black and Red 14 Drawer Heavy-Duty Tool Storage Cabinet which is almost as tall as I am (Black Friday $299 Half Price!) Fits on 20" of raised concrete in front of my lift. It's 18.5 " Deep (Perfect!!!!)



Looked (Didn't buy) at Sears 20/26/33 Gallon CraftsMan Air Compressors and other Craftsman models, But many of the Craftsman got BAD reviews on the web (even on Sears own Website). I passed for now. The 33 Gallon onr looked OK and had 4 STAR ratings. I still read mixed reviews. I am surprised how hard it is to find a slam dunk Air Compressor that everyone loves for a reasonable price. My Budget is $200-$400. Again, want to get one and be happy with it and allow me to take my tires off and get bolts removed whiel wrenching on my car.







I am super Happy, now I just have to Pay for all this stuff! It adds up Quick!!!!!!!!!


Bandit.................

Bandit- Northern Tool sells a 30 gallon, belt drive compressor for $300. It's a reconditioned Sanborn that they slap a Morgan Series label onto it. I got mine this summer and I'm glad I did.
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200396622_200396622

2001RedCoupeBandit said:

My Budget is $200-$400. Again, want to get one and be happy with it and allow me to take my tires off and get bolts removed whiel wrenching on my car.

Click to expand...

Bandit,
If all you want to do is run your lift and a few air tools, like an impact wrench, then you should be able to find a compressor that will do the job for the sort of money you have in your budget. I have a 10 year old Campbell-Hausfeld portable compressor that I paid less than $150 dollars for that does the job fine. This is todays' equivalent of what I have. http://www.tractorsupply.com/air-compressors/campbell-hausfeld-reg-portable-20-gallon-cast-iron-air-compressor-3301586?langId=-1&catalogId=10001&storeZip=04011&zoneMarketInfo=2-16&reqUrl=%2Fair-compressors%2Fcampbell-hausfeld-reg-portable-20-gallon-cast-iron-air-compressor-3301586&storeId=10551&storeCity=BRUNSWICK&lbzipcode=04011&physicalStoreId=1446&ddkey=http:LocationBasedPricingCmd
I just wouldn't get a direct drive oil-less compressor, in general they are noisy and don't last very long. You certainly don't need anything as large as what you show in your post. When it comes to outfitting your compressor, 3/8" hose to your air tools is large enough. I found that you should spend the time to find and the money to get the high flow quick disconnects. I bought a 1/2" IR impact wrench based on the stellar reviews it had and it seemed mediocre at best. Used it for about a year, it did the job, but it was nothing special. All my air tools had "L" type fittings on them, my GF had some air tools with larger fittings. I decided to upgrade all the fittings to be standard and put on the high flow fittings. I believe they were "M" type. The IR impact wrench now has so much more power I have to turn down the pressure to it from 90psi to 60psi or I will over torque the wheel lugs. The change in quick disconnect fittings made a huge difference in how the impact wrench functioned.

Guy is coming over Sunday at 10am (A Handy Man Buddy that does stuff pretty cheap). I don't want to mess with 220 Volt.

Asking him to look at adding 220 Volt to my Ceiling and 110 (just an extra outlet) by my SOON to be installed Lift Master 3800 for my High Lift Garage Door. I went to Lowes today to look at 220 Volt outlets and only saw Outlets that said 250 Volt. Maybe THAT is what you need?????

I am ALSO going to ask my Handy Man that comes over tomorrow if HE could do the High Lift Garage Door himself? I am sure he could, BUT, I would be happier with an expert that has done it many times This guy is GOOD at general handy work and I am sure he can do the garage door no problem, BUT, I am going to ask and if he stutters at all, I will NOT use him.

I can get the "High Lift" Parts myself from DMM Garage Doors who has a step by step HOW TO install the High Lift Garage Conversion (or another popular one on the web) for $250-$300 (High Lift Tracks, Drums, Springs, and new Cables). The Actual LM 3800 opener is extra (I Paid $285 on line) and the guy that I got a quote from said $150 to install it.

Here is the QUOTE BELOW from Overhead Doors (A Major Company around the US, so that is why it is high). However, if I get the parts myself, it's $350 shipped at least. This doesn't seem like THAT bad fo a deal, does it??? My garage high lift is between 54" and 60".

STATE, TEXAS

DATE 11/16/2012


QTY: DESCRIPTION: UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

ESTIMATE TO HIGHLIFT DOOR
66"
HIGHLIFT TRACK, CABLES AND $450.00
CABLE DRUMS,SPRINGS

INSTALL CUSTOMER'S
Lift Master 3800 JACKSHAFT OPENER
$150.00 (Labor)



NOTES: PARTS TOTAL $450.00
TAX $37.13

LABOR FOR DOOR $450.00
INSTALL OPENER $150.

TOTAL $1,087.13


What do you guys think? I am waiting for my Lift to get get produced and shipped. Jeff said around 2 weeks until it ships. My installer is going to charge me $575 to install Lift INCLUDING bolting it down with 16 bolts (drilled into concrete). I am NOT going to have it bolted down NOW until I see if it is in the right location, maybe never will bolt it down?????? I got Casters. if I don't bolt it down, he might knock off $50 flat ones.

So, $525 and HE picks it up from Yellow Freights Terminal and brings it to me. He was 3 STARS on bendPak's website, BUT, talked to him an hour over 2 calls and really nice and knows his S$%^! Does many lift for Car Dealerships.

He is the one who told me to Put the 220 Volt Power on the Ceiling (Above the Post)and use an "SO" Cord and a 30 Amp Twist Lock that drops down from ceiling.

I figured out the Lift, It's ordered!

I think I am going to start a new thread specifically around preparing for the install.

I have several specific questions on the 220 Volt Power and my High Lift Garage Door and a few other items I want to make sure I have prior to LIFT installer coming over, like making sure I have the right quick connect fittings for AIR connections for both the Lift and my RJ-45 Jack.


Had my buddy (Handy Man that works pretty cheap can do anything) come over today to show him my garag and he can do my 220 Volt and also is going to do my High Lift garage door conversion and LiftMaster 3800 install. He had a few questions and comments on how he wantred to run the 220 V power. The guy doesn't have much money and work has been slow right now, so I want HIM to do it if possible as he really needs the money. He's slow sometimes, but does good work.





Gathering my thoughts now for NEXT Thread. This thread has been absolutely GREAT! However, it is getting off topic now (and has gotten really long). I already figured out WHAT lift to get and have actaully ordered it, so my next thread will be Part 2 of 3. Part 3 will be after it is installed and will have a bunch of pictures.

Thanks again everyone. Please feel free to still post here or add any info you would like.


Appreciate all of you guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Bandit...............
Now, I have several post ordering questions / pre installation questions.

Sunday Night as I type this, the BendPak is on the way (hell might be here by now)and SHOULD be installed the week of 12-10-2012, or on the weekend!

Monday morning (tomorrow) my HandyMan is coming at 9am in 20 degree TEXAS weather (LOL) an doing the 220 Volt Power for the Lift and a second for My air compressor.

He's also going to install the first of my 2 High Lift Garage Door kits and Lift master 3800 Jack Lift Opener. The 2nd High Lift Kit hasn't arrived (kind of pissed, but oh well) as I decided to do BOTH doors in my 3 Car Garage so it looks congruent (trying to sound smart).

Also my 4 Fluorescent fixtures (T8 4 bulb in each fixture) with a toal of 55 foot candles total output will arive Monday vis UPS.

I am also goiing to check with Yellow Freight Monday to see if my Lift has arrived. My authorized BendPak Lift Installer will eventually pick it up at Yellow Freight's Dock and bring it to my house on his trailer for the set up. I am arranging the date of the actual Lift Install Monday or Tuesday.

Should be in at least by the weekend and I appreciate so much, all the great advice and info that helped me do everything!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I will of course take pictures of everything. All these written posts get boring, BUT, the Pictures will give us some Eye Candy to Finalize this momentus occasion.

I am really excited and the "Journey" is alot of the FUN as well, but I am PAST that "fun journey Part" now and JUST WANT THIS TO BE OVER!!!!!

Stay Tuned, More to come soon!

The Bandit....................................

Any updates? I'm leaning toward a bend Pak purchase real soon so am very interested in your thoughts!

Geting installed Tomorrow Dec 18th! My thought are get a BendPak! If your broke and can barely afford a lift, or just want a lift that lifts your car, you can get a ProPark Cheaper. I ALMOST DID!!!!!!!!!!!!

I suggest paying a few bucks more and getting a BendPak. They work Great, been around a long time, look cool, and have fantastic support (didn't think I cared about that, but I realize now that I do. They helped me out alot already!).

I will do a review when it's in and I used it for a fewe days, BUT, I altready knwo I will love it from researching for the last 4-5 months.

Yeah I think that's what I'm doing. PMd the bendpak guy to get the ball rolling. Can't wait to see yours. It's like your Christmas!

It IS My Christmas! It has been a long road with ALL that I have done and I am so ready to just be done!
My BENDPAK 4 Post Lift (HD-7W) goes in tomorromorning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Dec 18th at 10am!

I just set up my New Puma 20 Gallon air compressor in the Garage and put oil in it and will break her in for 20 minutes tomorrow when I wake up.

Finished installing 1 high lift garage door and Lift Master 3800 opener over the weekend on my 2 car garage door. Got all the Power run and added (2) new 220 volt plugs for lift and air compressor (or whatever) and 2 new 110 outlts.

Guy is coming back out tomorrow to get going on High Lift garage Door #2 (the single door) and adding another LM3800. When he is done with that, he is adding the 4 fluorescent light fixtures with 4 T8 lights per fixture.

This is a HUGE Christmas that I Gave myself. My wife is so damn ready for all this to be OVER! I can't blame her. I'm ready too!

Will do a NEW Post Part 3 (BendPak Installed Post) with Pics.

Hope this turned out well! Looking at contacting Jeff myself about an HD-9XW!

Here's his other post with the final outcome:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2817303#post2817303