Where to install lift?

[dantm]

I have a garage which is 50 x 40, with three bay doors on the longer side (the 50 ft). Center bay door is 14 ft wide the other two are 12 ft wide (on each side of the center one). The entrance to the garage is through a side door located on the shorter (40 ft) side.

I am at the point of installing a 2-post lift and wanted to see any thoughts (pros/cons) of where to place it in the garage.

Initially I thought of placing it at the back of the center bay but now I'm thinking that will require the front of the center bay to be open for a car to be driven to the lift...so maybe the back is not a great idea?

What are some thoughts from the experts here?

Thanks...

 

[aka Larry]

I have a 40'x40' with three bay doors. The center door is 12'x12' and the ones on either side are 9'x9'. I placed mine in the front bay of the center door so I could use the pitch of the roof to gain the extra height needed for the lift.

 

[Blk88GT]

I have the same size shop, although I have 3 10hx12'w doors also along the 50' wall.

I installed mine in the center bay, center of the building. If I did it again, I might move it back 3-4' towards the door. Otherwise, I really like the placement. There's lots of room in front and behind of the vehicle to work.

It really depends how you intend on using the shop.

 

[dantm]

Typically I have about 3-4 cars stored in the garage, and some cars rotate in-and-out. Would probably do work on the lift every 2 weeks or so for a day -- this is a hobby garage.

On the short side (the 40 ft) I can fit 2 cars very comfortably, 3 is very tight.

I'm thinking center bay, either close to the door or center of the garage, as you guys have mentioned. I like the idea of it close to the door since cars can go in and out and if there is any dirt it will track only to that front of the bay only. Also if there are any vehicles in that bay they can be parked behind the lift towards the back...

 

[wdrumheller]

Put it close to your tools, lights, air supply, electric supply... etc.