Removing Drivetrain on a 4 Post Lift

[AndyCFI]

All,

Sorry to start a new thread, but I'd like this topic to be specific to this particular application of a 4 post lift.

I have removed the drivetrain of many FWD cars from underneath because I find it to be the easiest way to go. Now that I am in the market for a home - I am considering the purchase of a lift. I have used both 2 and 4 post lifts in the past, and I think for many reasons, I am leaning toward a 4 post with bridge jacks.

I have read the pro's and con's of both for many applications - but does any one have the specific experience of removing a drivetrain (cradle, control arms and all) from underneath on a 4 post? If so, how did you do it? What kind of lift do you have? Are the runways adjustable-width? Are there any creative techniques you used to accomplish it? Do you have some pictures you could post?

This particular application is the deal maker or breaker for me. I don't mind using bridge jacks or working around the runways. I have used 2 and 4 post lifts at military hobby shops, and preferred the 4 post. I just never tried pulling an engine on one. Thanks in advance for the input!

Andy

 

[Tunger]

I prefer a 2 post lift for 90% of the work I do, the only times I use our drive on lifts is for a quick oil change, alignment, or to QC a job for leaks, otherwise I use a two post. It would be a pain to drop a cradle on most cars and impossible on some, using a drive on lift. Also pulling an engine from the top would **** as well since by design the vehicle would be higher. If I had to have only 1 lift it would be a 2 post symmetrical. YMMV.

 

[JMcFly]

I'd go with a two post so it is easier to remove front or rear sub frames. Only benefit I see from a 4 post lift is being able to store one car on top, and one below.

 

[znowaczyk]

As stated above, I think it would be damned near impossilble to do any of that on a 4 poster. The clearance simply is not there.

 

[xurusaibobx]

most work i like to work on a 2post lift because it gives you more room to work around.

ive done brake jobs/fuel pumps/front suspension/rwd clutch jobs on 4 post and its great cause you have a table right there but thats about it. dropping a fuel tank on a GM truck is good on a 4post cause you can use the jacks to lower the tanks. but you can do that with a trans jack on a 2 post as well. the 4 post comes in handy when you have a Ford F450 come in for clutch job cause a 2 post wont cut it weight wise. so if your going work on large vehicles then 4 post might work out for you. if your doing little honda civics etc then 2 post

if your going do all around work on cars a 2 post will be your best option. 4 post are a lot longer and requires more room.