4 post hoist question

[Fisherguy]

Have a chance to buy a used Rotary 4 post hoist, the guy who has it vannot find the model number which I was hoping to get so I can download a manual for the hoist.
It was bolted down when it was used in a shop commercially, I was hoping to NOT bolt it to the floor, would that be a problem?
TIA

 

[Chuckster in NJ]

My four post is NOT bolted down.

 

[rburke65]

From what I know, it won’t be a problem if it is not bolted in place. I’m sure if you look there’s a number somewhere or if you post a picture, someone will know a model number. I’m inclined to think they are a good lift.

 

[Fisherguy]

OK
I did a search and someone in another thread said if it's meant to be bolted down then a person should do it in case the uprights were to splay out when there's a car on it.
Another said if it's a working hoist like this one is a person should not use it for storing a vehicle which I want to do.

The only pics of it I have is of it taken apart sitting on the ground. Seems weird the seller can't find the model number...?

 

[pbon]

Typically you do not need to bolt down a 4 post. Some even have optional caster kits Si you can move it around.

Make sure you reinstall and set it up properly. My Bendpak HD-9 would sometimes not release and as a result, a cable would go slack as a car was coming down and one of the posts would start to tilt in (and would eventually collapse the lift if allowed to continue). If bolted down, this might not have happened. However, the problem was not adjusting the lift correctly, not a failure to bolt a post. Bolting the posts is really just an added security measure. I always release the locks first, then depress the lowering lever, and watch the cables underneath. I think mine is still a little off because if I release with low air pressure, a cable sometimes goes slack and I have to go back up and start over. Just need to fine tune it.

 

[ronr80]

I have a Bend Pak HD 9 , was not bolted down the first year all was fine until I drove a rear wheel drive car , when the front wheels rolled on the ramps the hoist move a few inches back, due to the real wheels having traction, that got me thinking , and scared me , so I bolted 2bolts per post just for security, and can be removed if needed.
Just a thought.
I have the caster kit to move it .

 

[pbon]

I have only RWD cars and have not had that issue. Seems odd the lift would move as you drove onto it.