Lift or no lift?

[CarterD2015]

I am in the planning stage of building myself a shop. I think that a lift would be a nice addition. I am unsure which style lift to get. I think that a 2 post lift would work the best. What are some of the disadvantages of this style lift? Other than storage what are some advantages of a 4 post lift? Any input would be very much appreciated.

Thx

[dfwright]

There was a recent discussion on 2 vs 4 post lifts just recently. Check out this thread

2 be or 4 not to be? Lifts, that is the question.

[CarterD2015]

Thanks for the response.

[ERASER5]

If you can, do a lift. It gets old really quick crawling under only to find you need a different tool.

[hugger6933]

I use my TWO post mainly for raising beds off to place on the dollie I made and cab for replacement and during frame changes. It is real nice to be able to change a body by yourself. Jim

[cableguy0]

If you can get only one a 2 post is the best way to go. A 4 post has its uses but removing wheels is difficult and the lift itself is in the way. Also get a clear floor two post. The plate covering the cables will always be in the way especially when doing transmission work.

[CarterD2015]

Thanks for the great advice. I am going with a two post for sure.

[drfloyd]

Check with a local lift sales company. They usually have lifts that they have removed for sale. I bought my 2 post, clear floor 6 ton lift for $1100. One of the best lifts I've ever seen. A lift is like a pickup, once you get one you can't do without it.

[In The Ten Ring]

If I had the space for a shop, I'd build one too and yes, I'd get a lift.

Best of luck for you.

[A1971Blazer]

Without a doubt...........the best addition to a shop you can get....

[Advanced Design]

My only regret about my lift is I should have purchasd one 10 years sooner.

[msgross]

I just built a shop and left room for a lift. Issues I see with a 2 post lift in once you pick a spot, you're stuck (concrete prep etc,) and if you aren't using it then you risk opening your doors into it.

Benefits for me wanting a 4 post, you can move it around, (even outside), you can store a car on it and lift it up to use the lower space for storage. You do need to tray and a bottle jack though to take off tires.

[CarterD2015]

Originally Posted by msgross

I just built a shop and left room for a lift. Issues I see with a 2 post lift in once you pick a spot, you're stuck (concrete prep etc,) and if you aren't using it then you risk opening your doors into it.

Benefits for me wanting a 4 post, you can move it around, (even outside), you can store a car on it and lift it up to use the lower space for storage. You do need to tray and a bottle jack though to take off tires.

That is a great point. I am going to have a 30w x 25d work bay and two 20w x 25d storage bays. With the capability to store 3 more cars but they would be in the way. I was thinking of putting a two post lift in the work bay.