Automotive Lift Basics - What You Need To Know
Automotive lifts and car lifts are used extensively in auto repair shops in order
to lift vehicles safely off the ground for effective repairs and increased productivity. Vehicle lift designs vary depending on the type of auto repair that your shop performs, whether your work on light, compact vehicles or larger vehicles of up to 25,000 pounds. When selecting an automotive lift for your shop or working with auto lifts, it is important to understand the proper safety precautions. Below, learn the basics of automotive lifts, including the benefits, types of lifts and auto lift safety.Benefits of Automotive Lifts:
Vehicle lifts are extremely beneficial to the auto repair industry, as they help to speed productivity and allow workers to perform more accurately. By lifting vehicles off the ground at the appropriate levels, technicians have greater access and the ability to examine the vehicle in great detail. Auto lifts also allow workers to examine vehicles in a comfortable and more natural position, which helps improve focus and leads to more improved performance overall. In order to enjoy the increased productivity and benefits of automotive lifts, shops must keep their lifts well-maintained and in working order.
Types of Lifts:
There are several different types of automotive lifts, including in-ground lifts, parallelogram (or scissor) lifts, wheel-engagin lifts, and two-post surface mounted lifts.
In-Ground:
In-ground vehicle lifts are assembled below the ground level and use one or more pistons to lift vehicles. When not in use, in-ground lifts are stored below ground for more floor space.
Parallelogram (Scissor):
Parallelogram or scissor vehicle lifts are used for heavy vehicles. Parallelogram lifts move vehicles forward or backward as it raises or lowers, while scissor lifts move completely vertically.
Wheel-Engaging:
Wheel-engaging mobile lifts raise and lower unconventional types of vehicles, such as transit busses, on mobile lifting columns.
Two-Post:
Two-post surface mounted lifts can lift a wide range of vehicles without taking up too much space, and four-post surface mounted lifts have a convenient drive-on feature for muffler and oil changes shops that service many cars in a short period of time.
Auto Lift Safety:
Taking the appropriate safety precautions when working with lifts is critical to reducing the risk of injury in the workplace. The proper protective gear should be worn at all times, including safety glasses, hard hats and coveralls. Technicians should be fully trained to understand and operate the automotive lift safely and efficiently. Regular inspection of automotive lifts prevents accidents occurring due to equipment failure, and any problems or issues should be reported to supervisors immediately.
by: Doug Climenhaga