two post lift as a skyhook

[kcombs]

I am building my new garage/shop that will include a two post lift. I have been trying to figureout how to have a jib or gantry crane in my limited space. Seems that I should be able to put a beam on the two post lift and run the lift up in the air and lift from the beam. I am mainly concern with lifting car bodies on and off of frames. Has anyone tried this or am I missing something in my thought process? This would be much easier than reinforcing my scissors trusses and lift from them.

Kurt

 

[Vicegrip]

Draw out the space. There are lots of ways to make things happen.

 

[DynoDave]

I am mainly concern with lifting car bodies on and off of frames. Has anyone tried this or am I missing something in my thought process? This would be much easier than reinforcing my scissors trusses and lift from them.

Kurt

That's an interesting thought, Kurt. I've not seen, or heard of, it being done. Have you spoken with any of the lift manufacturers about it? I suppose for liability reasons they would frown on the idea.

 

[MetalMangler]

Two thoughts...

1) I would be worried about any lateral (to the direction of the gantry beam) force on the gantry causing it to roll off the lift. Also, you are only looking at a distance of about 12 feet side to side (in reference to the auto body) most of which is the vehicle in question.

2) How about instead placing the gantry down the center of the bay "above" the lift. You wouldn't be limited to the height of the lift, the gantry would be permanently affixed so lateral forces shouldn't roll it off its support, and you'd have what, 20 feet of movement front and back rather than 12 feet side to side.

MM

 

[wilbilt]

Couldn't you just use the lift arms under the body to lift it from the frame?

 

[kcombs]

I think Will has the answer. Maybe I was thinking too hard! Worst case I could lay a heavy piece of square tubing across the arms under the body and lift away.