Top 2 Post Car Lift Brands: Reviews & Buying Guide

Two-post lifts are a popular choice for raising vehicles in garages and workshops. The best two-post car lifts have hydraulic systems that offer maximum strength and stability for safe and efficient lifting. In this article, we will review and provide a buying guide for the top two post car lift brands available on the market today.

When it comes to choosing a two-post car lift, you want the best of the best. We’ve compiled a list of the top brands that are known for their affordability, reliability, and high-quality construction. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, these brands have got you covered.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose a two-post car lift brand that offers maximum strength and stability for safe lifting.
• Consider the specific needs of your garage or workshop when selecting a lift.
• Look for brands that are known for their reliability and high-quality construction.
• Affordability is an important factor to consider when choosing a car lift.
• Read reviews and compare features to find the best two-post car lift for your needs.

Why Buy a Two-Post Auto Lift?

Two-post lifts are a great investment for individuals and businesses alike. They offer several benefits that make them a smart choice for vehicle maintenance and repair.

• Space-Saving Advantages: Two-post lifts take up minimal floor space, making them ideal for garages and workshops with limited area. Their compact design allows mechanics to maximize the use of available space.
• Easy Operation: Operating a two-post lift is straightforward and user-friendly. With intuitive controls and simple mechanisms, even novice mechanics can raise and lower vehicles safely and efficiently.
• Adjustable Heights: Two-post lifts are designed to accommodate different ceiling heights. They offer adjustable lifting arms and multiple lock positions, allowing for versatility in servicing vehicles of various sizes.
• Versatility: Whether you need a lift for routine maintenance in your personal garage or for professional use in an auto repair shop, a two-post lift can cater to your specific needs. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of vehicles, from sedans to light trucks.

With their space-saving advantages, easy operation, adjustable heights, and versatility, two-post lifts provide a practical and efficient solution for lifting vehicles during maintenance and repair tasks.

Types of Two-Post Auto Lifts

When it comes to two-post auto lifts, there are two main types to choose from: baseplate lifts and overhead lifts. Both offer their own advantages and it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision.

Baseplate Two-Post Lifts

Baseplate lifts are characterized by a plate that joins the two columns along the bottom. These lifts are easy to install and are typically mounted on a flat concrete floor. One of the major benefits of baseplate lifts is that they are suitable for garages with medium-height ceilings, as they do not require any overhead components. However, the presence of the baseplate can sometimes get in the way during certain repair tasks, making it less ideal for auto-repair specialists who require unrestricted access to the underside of the vehicle.

Overhead Two-Post Lifts

Overhead lifts, on the other hand, have a piece that connects the two columns across the top. This additional overhead component provides extra stability, making these lifts a popular choice among professionals. Overhead lifts also free up ground space when not in use, allowing mechanics to park vehicles or perform other tasks. However, it’s important to note that overhead lifts require sufficient height clearance in the workspace to accommodate the lift and the lifted vehicle.

Comparison of Baseplate and Overhead Lifts

When comparing baseplate and overhead lifts, it’s essential to consider factors such as installation requirements, ceiling height limitations, and the specific needs of your workspace. Baseplate lifts are generally easier to install and are more suitable for garages with medium-height ceilings. Overhead lifts offer greater stability and space-saving advantages, but they require sufficient ceiling height for installation. Ultimately, the choice between baseplate and overhead lifts depends on your specific needs and workspace constraints.

Two-Post Lift with Baseplate

The baseplate two-post lift is a popular choice for those looking to invest in a car lift for their garage or workshop. These lifts are known for their ease of installation, making them a convenient option for DIY enthusiasts and small business owners. The baseplate design includes a plate that joins the two columns along the bottom, providing stability and support during lifting operations.

One of the main advantages of a baseplate lift is its suitability for medium-height ceilings. Unlike overhead lifts, which require additional space above the lift for the overhead component, baseplate lifts can be installed in garages with limited vertical clearance. This makes them an ideal choice for home garages or workshops with lower ceilings.

However, it’s important to consider the potential disadvantages of baseplate lifts as well. The presence of the baseplate can sometimes get in the way during certain repairs, limiting access to certain areas of the vehicle. This can be a drawback for professional auto-repair specialists who require unobstructed access for their work. Additionally, baseplate lifts may not have the same level of stability as overhead lifts, as they lack the additional support provided by the overhead arch.

In summary, baseplate two-post lifts offer easy installation and are well-suited for garages with medium-height ceilings. They provide a convenient lifting solution for home garages and small workshops. However, it’s important to consider the potential limitations of baseplate lifts, such as restricted access during repairs and potentially reduced stability compared to overhead lifts.

Advantages of Baseplate Lifts:

• Easy installation
• Suitable for medium-height ceilings

Disadvantages of Baseplate Lifts:

• Limited access during certain repairs
• Potentially reduced stability compared to overhead lifts

Two-Post Lift Overhead Lift

When it comes to two-post car lifts, the overhead lift option offers several advantages over baseplate lifts. One of the key benefits is the stability that comes from the support of the overhead arch. This added stability ensures a secure lifting experience for vehicles of varying weights and sizes. Mechanics and auto enthusiasts can rely on the overhead lift to provide a sturdy platform for performing maintenance and repairs.

Another advantage of the overhead lift is the space-saving feature. Unlike baseplate lifts that require ground space for mounting, the overhead lift frees up valuable floor space when not in use. This allows mechanics to park vehicles underneath or utilize the area for other tasks. The ground space savings can be particularly beneficial in smaller garages or workshops where every square inch counts.

However, it’s important to consider the height clearance requirements of the overhead lift. The overhead arch requires sufficient overhead space to accommodate the lift and the vehicles being serviced. If the ceiling height is too low, it may restrict the ability to fully raise certain vehicles. Therefore, it’s crucial to measure the available clearance before choosing an overhead lift to ensure it meets the height requirements for your specific needs.

Advantages of Overhead Lifts:

• Increased stability due to the overhead arch
• Space-saving feature, freeing up ground space
• Ideal for garages and workshops with sufficient ceiling height clearance

Disadvantages of Overhead Lifts:

• Height clearance requirements may limit use in low-ceilinged spaces
• Installation may require professional assistance due to the overhead component

Table: Comparison of Overhead and Baseplate Two-Post Lifts

Differences Between Asymmetric and Symmetric Lifts

When choosing a two-post car lift, it’s essential to understand the differences between asymmetric and symmetric lifts, as they each have unique characteristics and advantages. One of the key distinctions lies in the placement of the arms on the lift. Asymmetric lifts have arms that are different in length, allowing for easy door access. On the other hand, symmetric lifts have arms of equal length, providing a more balanced lift for vehicles.

The choice between asymmetric and symmetric lifts depends on the specific vehicle types you work with. Asymmetric lifts are ideal for vehicles with weight distribution towards the front, such as sedans and smaller SUVs. The offset arms on these lifts allow for better door clearance and easier entry and exit for the driver. Symmetric lifts, on the other hand, are better suited for longer vehicles, such as trucks and larger SUVs, as they offer more balanced support along the vehicle’s centerline.

Considerations for door access are crucial when selecting the right lift for your needs. If you work with vehicles that have wide doors or require frequent access to the interior, an asymmetric lift would be a better choice. The offset arms will provide the necessary clearance for comfortable entry and exit. However, if door access is not a significant concern, and you work with various vehicle types, a symmetric lift can offer more versatility.

Dimensional Requirements for Lifts

In addition to considering the vehicle type and door access, it is important to take into account the dimensional requirements for the lift. This includes the overall height, width, and space between columns. Asymmetric and symmetric lifts may have different dimensional specifications, so it is essential to choose a lift that fits your available space comfortably.

By understanding the differences between asymmetric and symmetric lifts, evaluating the suitability for specific vehicle types, considering door access requirements, and taking into account the dimensional requirements, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right two-post car lift for your garage or workshop.

Universalift 2

The Universalift 2 is a highly rated two-post car lift known for its impressive specifications and versatility. With a lifting capacity of 7,000 pounds, this lift can handle a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to light trucks. Its overall height is 113 inches, providing ample clearance for most garages and workshops. The width between the columns is adjustable, ranging from 100 to 120 inches, making it suitable for smaller working spaces.

One of the standout features of the Universalift 2 is its lift speed. With a lifting time of just 45 seconds, this lift allows for efficient and quick work, saving you valuable time in your automotive tasks. The Universalift 2 is a symmetric lift, meaning it has matching arms on both sides, providing balance and stability during lifting operations.

“The Universalift 2 is a reliable and high-quality two-post car lift, offering impressive lifting capacity and speed. Its versatility and adjustable width make it suitable for various working environments. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a car enthusiast, the Universalift 2 is a great investment for your garage or workshop.”

Overall, the Universalift 2 is a top choice for those in need of a reliable and efficient two-post car lift. Its impressive specifications, including the lifting capacity, overall height, width between columns, and lift speed, make it a versatile and practical option for both personal and professional use.

Universalift 9KAF: Specifications and Features

The Universalift 9KAF is a robust baseplate two-post car lift designed to handle heavy vehicles with ease. It offers a lifting capacity of 9,000 pounds, making it suitable for a variety of vehicles, including SUVs, sedans, and light trucks. This lift is built to perform reliably and efficiently, ensuring a safe and convenient lifting experience for both professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.

Specifications

Here are the key specifications of the Universalift 9KAF:

• Lifting Capacity: 9,000 pounds
• Overall Height: 111.5 inches
• Width: 141 inches (with power unit)
• Max Lift Height: 72 inches
• Lifting Speed: 50 seconds

Features

The Universalift 9KAF is packed with features that enhance its performance and usability:

• Easy Assembly: The lift can be easily assembled and disassembled, saving time and effort.
• Sturdy Construction: It is built with high-quality materials to ensure durability and long-lasting performance.
• Baseplate Design: The baseplate design provides stability and allows for easy installation on a flat, concrete floor.
• Smooth Lifting: The lift offers a lifting speed of 50 seconds, allowing for quick and efficient work.
• Wide Range of Applications: With its lifting capacity and adjustable height, the Universalift 9KAF can accommodate various vehicle types and sizes.

Universalift 11KAC-D

The Universalift 11KAC-D is a highly versatile two-post car lift that combines asymmetric and symmetric capabilities. With a lifting capacity of 11,000 pounds, this lift is suitable for both cars and light trucks. Its overall height measures 145 inches, providing ample clearance for vehicles during the lifting process.

The width of the Universalift 11KAC-D is adjustable, allowing for customization according to the available space in your garage or workshop. This flexibility ensures that the lift can be accommodated in various layouts.

The maximum lift height achievable with the Universalift 11KAC-D ranges from 69-1/8 to 71.5 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of vehicles. The lift speed of this model is designed for efficiency, allowing you to complete your work quickly and effectively.

Whether you need to service cars or light trucks, the Universalift 11KAC-D offers the lifting capacity, height clearance, and lifting speed required for smooth and hassle-free operation.

Note: The specifications mentioned above are approximate values and may vary based on the specific model and configuration.

Other Top-Rated Two-Post Lifts

In addition to the Universalift models, there are several other top-rated two-post car lifts available on the market. These lifts offer a variety of load capacities, lift heights, and features to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some specifications of different models:

BendPak XPR-10S

The BendPak XPR-10S is a highly regarded two-post car lift with a lifting capacity of 10,000 pounds. It has an overall height of 145 inches and a width between columns of 145 inches. The lift’s arms can be adjusted to accommodate different vehicle sizes. With its durable construction and advanced safety features, this lift is a popular choice among automotive enthusiasts and professionals.

Atlas Platinum PVL-12

The Atlas Platinum PVL-12 is a heavy-duty two-post car lift designed for commercial use. It has a lifting capacity of 12,000 pounds and an overall height of 165 inches. The lift features dual hydraulic cylinders and comes equipped with a range of safety features, including an automatic arm-locking system. With its robust construction and impressive lifting capabilities, the Atlas Platinum PVL-12 is a reliable choice for servicing larger vehicles.

Triumph NT-9FP

The Triumph NT-9FP is a versatile two-post car lift suitable for both home garages and professional shops. It has a lifting capacity of 9,000 pounds and an overall height of 111 inches. The lift offers a wide range of arm positions to accommodate various vehicle types and sizes. With its affordable price point and durable construction, the Triumph NT-9FP is a popular option among DIY enthusiasts and small business owners.

These are just a few examples of the top-rated two-post car lifts available. When choosing a lift, it’s important to consider your specific needs, such as lifting capacity, ceiling height, and intended use. By comparing the specifications and features of different models, you can find the right two-post car lift that meets your requirements and provides reliable and efficient lifting capabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right two-post car lift for your garage or workshop is crucial. The top two post car lift brands mentioned in this article offer a variety of options to suit different budgets and vehicle types. By carefully assessing your specific needs and comparing the specifications of these brands, you can make an informed decision and find the best two-post car lift for your requirements.

When selecting a two-post car lift, consider factors such as lifting capacity, overall height, width, and maximum lift height. Additionally, think about whether you need a baseplate or overhead lift, and whether an asymmetric or symmetric lift would be more suitable for your vehicle types. Taking these factors into account will ensure that you choose a reliable and high-quality lift that meets your specific needs.

Whether you need a lift for personal use or professional purposes, the reviewed two post car lift brands provide dependable options. With their hydraulic systems and sturdy construction, you can trust these lifts to provide the strength and stability necessary for safe and efficient vehicle lifting. So, don’t hesitate to assess your requirements, explore the specifications, and find the perfect two-post car lift for your garage or workshop.

Source Links

• https://www.naautoequipment.com/best-rated-2-post-lifts-s/1342.htm
• https://landmarktools.com/blogs/guides/best-two-post-car-lift-for-home-garages-in-2022
• https://www.caranddriver.com/shopping-advice/g36408983/vehicle-lifts-recommended-by-experts/