2 post or 4 post lift?

[HudsonGuy]

I'm trying to decide on whether I want to buy a 2 or 4 post lift for my personal shop.

I've got a new 40'x48' shop with a 5" concrete floor, with a simple floor drain in the middle, with very little slope. In looking at the lift manufacturers spec's, I believe I could put either one in. I'm probably looking at a 9-10,000 lb. unit.

I will mostly be doing hobby work on older cars (40's-60's), but also do as many repairs as I can on my newer brand X daily drivers.

I would ultimately like to have one of each, but must choose one to start. I can see many advantages to each one regarding floor space consumption, working clearances, mobility, speed, etc.

I used to work at service stations back in the 'day', so I'm pretty familiar with the advantages and drawbacks of each, although those were all 'in floor' units. I just wanted to hear from some of you that may have been down this same road, and what you've experienced.

Thanks for all the help and opinions. It's greatly appreciated.

These are some of the lift candidates;

'49 Hudson Super Six
'62 Chevy II Convertible
'68 Mercury Cougar XR7
'69 Plymouth 440 'Cuda

 

[ghnl]

I'd say you have to post some pictures of your cars & the garage before we can decide. You don't even tell us what color the cars are...

Anyway, four post lifts are best for storage and OK for working on cars. Two posts lifts are best for working on cars but are not good for storing them. Two post lifts have to be bolted to the floor (which must be strong enough for the load) but four post lifts do not need to be bolted and can be used on a standard garage floor. Does any of that help you decide?

Don't forget the photos...

 

[iceman510]

My personal plan is 2 post first, 4 post later. Hoping to be working on cars less as I get older.

 

[rburke65]

IMO....2 post.

 

[Andybull]

I have a Mohawk System 1 two post lift and love it!

 

[furbyj1]

Welcome to the GJ!!.......2 post as well

 

[1/2 Cup]

Welcome to the GJ, I am all for a two post as well.

 

[drivesitfar]

Hudson: i agree that we'd all probably like to see a few pictures of your cars. i don't own a lift (yet), but I've heard a lot of good things about the Max Jax 2 post lifts and here's a few videos for you to watch if you want to.

welcome and ask questions if you need help with the forum or have fun reading and sharing your wisdom.

http://www.maxjaxusa.com/video.html