Bendpak install questions

[NXGTS]

I've read most of the install threads and the install instructions but I still have a couple of unanswered questions.

In some of the install threads it shows some of the guys using ratchet straps to put tension on the cables. I looked for this step in the instructions but don't see it. Is this a necessary step or can I just use the pump to put a small amount of tension on and then check to make sure all the cables are where they need to be?

Hydraulic fluid. What are most of you using? The directions say Dextron III or WT-10 hydraulic fluid. Is one better than the other or more readily available? Is Dextron/Mercon III equivalent?

The spray paint that comes with the lift is great but have any of you been able to source a matching color in a rattle can? My ramps are yellow and I would like to go over them with a couple coats of blue. That is just a lot of yellow.

 

[purplezr2]

Dexron III is transmission fluid, should be no problem to find, not sure where you are, but your local farm and fleet place should have it by the 5 gallon pail, not sure how much you need.

 

[jdub63]

I used the ratchet strap method because I was concerned that the hydraulic actuator would put alot of pressure on the cables and if they were not aligned properly it would be more difficult to realign the cables onto the sheaves. With the ratchet you can just back it off, realign then retighten.

I found a comment by Jeff (Bendpak) in one of the threads where he suggested Dextron III, given that and the pricing of the hydro fluild I opted for Dextron III.

I haven't tried to match the paint, but you can always take a sample to the HD, they could match an oil based enamel paint that could be applied with a foam roller. You should be able to get a suitable finish using that method.

 

[climbabout]

I've read most of the install threads and the install instructions but I still have a couple of unanswered questions.

In some of the install threads it shows some of the guys using ratchet straps to put tension on the cables. I looked for this step in the instructions but don't see it. Is this a necessary step or can I just use the pump to put a small amount of tension on and then check to make sure all the cables are where they need to be?

Hydraulic fluid. What are most of you using? The directions say Dextron III or WT-10 hydraulic fluid. Is one better than the other or more readily available? Is Dextron/Mercon III equivalent?

The spray paint that comes with the lift is great but have any of you been able to source a matching color in a rattle can? My ramps are yellow and I would like to go over them with a couple coats of blue. That is just a lot of yellow.

I just got done (this past Saturday) installing 2 HD9ST lifts. I used Hydraulic fluid which I bought at the local NAPA auto supply. They had 5 gallon, 1 gallon and quart sizes.

When it was time to tighten the cables, I just used the motor to inch the cables tight, a small amount at a time continually checking the pulleys to make sure all stayed in alignment. I experienced no problems setting up either lift using this method. Also when I needed to extend the piston to attach the cables, I was able to just extend it by hand, once the 2 plugs were removed per the instructions.

Hope this helps,
Tim

 

[NitroPress]

BP will sell (or, if you ask politely, possibly even give you) matching rattlecans of BP blue. Argue that the pix show blue ramps and that's what you want... I have noticed that the color of the accessories (chocks, ramps, brackets, etc.) seems to vary with each batch of lifts.

I used NAPA Dexron III - 1 5 gallon plus a total of 6 quart bottles. It's worked fine so far and the experienced installer says he recommends hydraulic fluid only for shops that will be changing it regularly.