Equipment recommendations for New Garage

[dwholcomb]

I am considering opening a new garage and wondering what lift I should buy for a shop that will be servicing light duty passenger vehicles in California?
What wheel balancer, mounter and alignment equipment is best these days?

 

[dougf]

Wish I could help, but (not at all trying to sound snarky) use the search function and see what's been posted for lifts. I recall a pretty good thread where someone had a spreadsheet posted comparing lifts, if I find it I'll post the link here.

 

[CraigStu]

One source of info might be a local shop equipment supplier. An advantage there also would be service in event of a breakdown. I have been retired for 12 years but the 20 yrs prior to that Hunter Roadforce balancer was the acknowledged leader. We also had their tire changer and alignment equipment.

 

[metlmunchr]

Are you planning to open a tire and alignment shop or a general repair garage? The only way mounting, balancing, and alignment equipment is a worthwhile investment is for a tire and alignment shop. Making a profit in tires is all about volume, and if you don't plan to develop a large sales volume then you'll find the equipment occupies valuable floor space and doesn't begin to justify the $100K or more investment. OTOH, if you're selling 100 or more tires per day, then you won't have time to spend on any general repair work.

 

[Shiftless]

What equipment do you already own? What’s your budget? I assume you have experience in the field. The choice of tools and equipment is to a large degree personal and based on experience with different tools and equipment. Asking the internet what is the best is not bad, but maybe not completely relevant.

 

[kbuhagiar]

Another one-post wonder...?

 

[Shiftless]

Another one-post wonder...?

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