Before operating a 4 post lift, it is necessary to know how to operate it safely. There are some basic tips and tricks to remember by Mechanic Superstore noted. These include proper maintenance, inspection, and safety tips. In addition, you should also know the right type of vehicle lift for your shop. This will help you ensure the safety of your vehicle while you work.
Safety tips
When operating a 4 post lift, it is vital to be familiar with safety precautions. These precautions can ensure the safety of both you and the vehicle. First, make sure the vehicle is positioned correctly before you begin work. If the vehicle is not placed properly, it could become unstable or fall.
When operating a four post lift, it is important to ensure the lift is properly anchored and that all cables are in sync. If all cables are in sync, the lift will not slide and the vehicle will not be damaged.
Proper maintenance
Proper maintenance is vital to keep your 4 post lift running smoothly. This includes checking the cables, tightening bolts and fittings, and lubricating moving parts. Cables should be no more than an inch out of whack when not in use. Make sure to inspect cables at both the front and rear. If they show signs of abnormal wear, replace them.
Performing regular maintenance on your lift can prevent personal injury and property damage. Inspect the moving parts, cables, hoses, and carriages. Lubricate the chain and cable pulleys and check for any signs of oil leaks. Also, perform a visual inspection of the lifting mechanism and all moving parts, including adapters.
Inspection
Inspecting a 4 post lift before operation is a vital step to ensure the safe operation of the equipment. Most automotive workshops employ this equipment to raise vehicles to an appropriate working height. This is beneficial in many ways, including increased productivity and safety. Here are some things to look for during the inspection.
Inspecting the lift is important for many reasons. It not only ensures proper operation, but also prevents costly downtime. A faulty lift can result in a loss of revenue, especially if the lift is used for a variety of jobs. Regular inspections identify problems before they become serious. An ALI-certified inspector can spot potential problems early and encourage preventative maintenance.
Caster kits
Caster kits can turn immobile stands into mobile lifts, allowing for easier transportation, repair and maintenance. These kits can also be used to convert four-post car lifts into mobile units. Operators of four-post lifts often have to connect to components located at remote locations. By converting a four-post lift into a portable unit, operators can easily relocate their work stations.
Caster kits are installed onto the legs of a four-post lift and make it easier to move the vehicle from one side to the other. Casters are attached to the lift’s four posts via a cable system. The cables are secured to the sheaves with cable keepers. The lifts also feature 36-inch aluminum approach ramps that are gusseted for reduced flex. Caster wheels are made of heavy-duty polyethylene and will not damage painted floors. The operator controls are easy to operate and ergonomically designed. In addition, full-length aluminum platforms can be added to easily store lawnmowers, ATVs and jet skis.
Weight capacity
A four post lift is used for heavy-duty vehicle lifting. They can handle up to thirty tons of weight. The cable style lifts feature independent locking ladders in each column. This allows for precise leveling at every corner. This is important for accurately measuring wheel alignment angles. Some alignment-specific 4-post lifts also feature front turntables and rear slip plates. Some of them are even equipped with roller jacks.
The weight capacity of a four-post lift is significantly higher than that of a two-post lift. A two-post lift can only lift about a quarter of the vehicle’s total weight. For that reason, a four-post lift needs to have a minimum lifting capacity of fifteen thousand pounds.
Installation
The first step in installing a 4 post lift is determining the location of the lift. Ideally, the lift will be installed within the building’s bays where the ceiling is higher. It’s best to plan ahead and schedule the installation accordingly. Also, make sure you have enough space in the building. If the space is insufficient, you’ll want to schedule the installation at a time when the space is more accessible.
The next step in installing a 4 post lift is to ensure the floor is stable. To prevent any cracks or voids, the floor must be strong enough to support the columns. Most manufacturers recommend six to 12 inches of concrete depth and a PSI of 3000.