The 2-Post Above Ground Lift

With all the styles of two post lifts out today shopping for lifts can be very confusing even to the most experienced buyer. I would like to take a few moments to go over the different types of 2 post lifts to help you, the buyer select the lift that is right for you.

The basic types of two post lifts are floor plate and clear floor:

The floor plate lift normally has columns that range from 9-10 foot in height and a steel plate on the floor running from column to column to protect the equalizer cables and hydraulic hoses. This type of lift is ideal for shops with ceilings between 10 and 12 foot and for shops that work on taller vehicles such as vans. On the negative side, the floor plate tends to interfere with other equipment used while working underneath a vehicle, especially transmission jacks.

The clear floor lift columns are normally 12’ and taller with a bar running across the top of the lift from column to column for the equalizer cables and hydraulic hoses. Not only does the top bar provide extra stability, they also feature a cut off switch on the top bar to protect the vehicle and lift. If you are considering a clear floor lift your ceiling height should be a minimum of 12’ (check manufacturers specs for ceiling height needed). You should also make sure the columns are tall enough for the vehicle you are servicing.

The two basic styles of 2 post lifts are symmetric and asymmetric:

The symmetric lift was the original two post above ground lift. The columns face each other and the lift arms are the same length. The vehicle is loaded for a 50-50 vehicle distribution on the lift. Symmetric lifts are manufactured in different widths to accommodate most vehicles. All floor plate lifts are symmetric.

The location of the columns on the symmetric lift in association to the vehicle doors sometimes makes entry and exit to the vehicle difficult. This led to the production of the asymmetric lift. The term “asymmetric lift” is one of the most misused terms you will hear when shopping for your lift. A true asymmetric lift has columns turned at an angle to make vehicle entry and exit easier. Many companies offer a lift with 2 long arms and 2 short arms for a 70-30 vehicle distribution. This is called several different things asymmetric lift, semi-asymmetric lift, combo lift, asymmetric arms. Most manufacturers and distributors advertise this style of lift has stronger carriages and columns. While this is true, what they fail to tell you is the uneven weight distribution leads to faster failure of wear parts and an overall average service life compared to the asymmetric column lift.

At Standard Lift & Equipment we only sell true asymmetric (turned column) two post lifts along with a complete line of symmetric lifts, four post lifts and other automotive equipment.