I've been looking for a 2 post hoist to work on the vehicles we have here, 6 of them. I either run out of cash when I find one or they get bought just before I can get there. I found a 4 post alignment machine for $500 from a friend who'd want to do the occasional alignment on it. (hence the price, I'm fine with that)Will I be able to do things like exhaust work, gas tanks oil changes, lubes etc. A mechanic friend thought so and suggested a trolly jack to lift wheels for brake work. I am too old @37 to keep scuffling around on the floor, I was too old @20 truth be known. Should I keep looking for a 2 post hoist or will the 4 post do?

-- Ross (amulet@istar.ca), March 10, 2002

Answers

It sure sounds like it would do the job. I'm sure there'll be times when one post or another might get in the way or there'll be a little extra dinking around to do a particular task but considering the alternative (crawling, sliding or rolling around under a vehicle) it sure beats that.

Working on cars is one of my least favorite jobs and anything to make the job easier gets my vote.

-- john (natlivent@pcpros.net), March 10, 2002.

That's a very good deal if it's not junked out. You shouldn't run into any problems over a 2post except the 2 post would be less to maintain. Never considered building a pit?

-- Dave (multiplierx9@hotmail.com), March 10, 2002.

DH says he would keep looking for a 2 post as 4 post would get in the way too much. He said you could probably work around it, but eventually you would probably just get too frustated. Good luck!!

-- Gina NM (inhock@pvtnetworks.net), March 10, 2002.

I fix cars for a living and have worked on both types. I have a 2 post in my shop now and it is definetly the best. Four posts limit your access but work fine for oil changes and exhaust. The one very important thing to remember is you usually get what you pay for and lifts very rarely fail when there is no car on them. When I have 4,000lb plus of vehicle over my head I never feel safe. If you buy any used lift be sure to check all the safetys!

-- Emil in TN (eprisco@usit.net), March 11, 2002.

I think I'll go for the 4 poster, it might limit a few jobs but it lets me align the wheels too, something a 2 post can't do. I can probably even get the work done by a pro. Thanks!!

-- Ross (amulet@istar.ca), March 12, 2002.