Whether you are a hobbyist mechanic or simply like to do your vehicle maintenance, you must have the right tools for the job. Proper equipment not only makes it easier to get work done, but it also helps keep you safe. Trying to do a job without the right equipment can force you to take unnecessary risks and will reduce your efficiency in the shop. This is especially true when getting underneath your car and working on it from the bottom up.
While you are most likely used to working on your car with it up on jacks, there are some safety hazards involved with this method. A car lift is a professional, safe alternative to jack stands. It will help you maximize efficiency and get jobs done faster and more efficiently. There are many things to consider when installing a car lift for garage use, and knowing them will help you make the right decision.
Benefits of a Car Lift for Your Home Garage
There is a reason that professional shops use a car jack lift instead of jack stands when they are working. One of the main benefits of using a lift is how easy it is to work underneath the vehicle. Often, trying to install a part or loosen a bolt can be frustrating when you can’t get the right angle on it. With a lift, you can access every area of the vehicle quickly and without twisting or stretching in ways that can hurt your body and car. This means fewer stripped bolts and fewer achy joints after a day in the garage.
Enhanced safety is another critical reason to install a car lift in your shop. If you work on multiple vehicles, they will all have specific jack points where you must place your stands. This can make it difficult to consistently lift your vehicles safely. With a car jack lift, the process is the same every time. You can confidently work on your vehicle, knowing it is safely secured on the lift.
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Garage Lift?
The cost of installing a car lift for garage use will depend on several factors. The most crucial factor is the type of lift you are installing. A simple scissor lift requires minimal installation and is relatively inexpensive. A more professional four-post lift will cost more to install but offers more safety and usability. Most lifts of varying types will cost between $1,500 and $8,000, not including the installation.
Installing the lift is another expense you must consider when purchasing one. A two-post lift will cost between $500 and $1,500 to install, while a four-post lift will cost between $2,000 and $4,000. The price of the installation will depend on its complexity and whether or not you have to modify your garage to accommodate the car lift.
How Tall Does a Garage Need to Be for a Car Lift?
If you install a lift in your garage, you must ensure enough vertical clearance for it. The height you will need will depend heavily on the type of lift you decide to purchase. For example, a two-post lift will generally require around 12 feet of height in your garage to give enough room for the posts and the vehicle. Some two-post lifts, though, are more low-profile than others and may not need as much height.
If you decide to install a four-post lift, which offers more durability and versatility, you will need more height in your garage. For the most part, you will need around 14 feet of vertical clearance in your shop. This will offer enough room for the lift posts and the vehicle you lift. If the vehicles you are working on are lifted or taller than usual, you may need even more space for the lift and the car.
How Thick Should Concrete Be for a Car Lift?
Before you decide that a car lift for garage use is right for you, you have to ensure your garage’s floor is strong enough. The concrete in your garage should be anywhere between four and six inches at a minimum. The more weight your lift is rated for, the thicker the concrete will need to be. The manufacturer of your lift will list the proper thickness and minimums you must adhere to if you install it.
Sometimes, your lift’s manufacturer will also recommend reinforcing your garage floor. Garage floors can be reinforced with steel rebar, which increases their strength and maximizes the safety of your shoplift. If your garage floor is not thick or reinforced, you have other options. A scissor lift, for example, doesn’t need to be permanently installed and can be used on all kinds of garage floors.
What is the Best Car Lift for a Garage?
You have many options for your car jack lift, and knowing what is available will help you choose your specific needs. Here are some of the popular options we carry.
Tuxedo FP8K-B 4-Post Basic Automotive Storage Lift
The Tuxedo FP8K is a four-post, cable-driven lift with a powder-coated finish and steel approach ramps. With an 8,000-pound capacity, it is an excellent choice if you want versatility and durability with your lift. This lift fits most residential garages and will give you years of reliable service.
BendPak GrandPrix Two-Post Vehicle Lift
This lift features telescoping low-pro arms and automatic safety locks. With a 7,000-pound capacity and 10 feet of height clearance, it is an excellent option for smaller jobs and home mechanics who don’t want to make a big investment in their garage.
BendPak LR-60 Low-Rise Scissor Vehicle Lift
For those who want a portable, low-profile option, the BendPak LR-60 has much to offer. This scissor lift has a 6,000-pound capacity and a maximum rise of 26 inches, making it a great choice if you don’t want to install something in your shop permanently.
JEGS: For All Your Automotive Needs
Whether you are looking for a pro-grade four-post lift or a portable car lift for garage use at home, JEGS has you covered. Feel free to browse our extensive product selection and have your items sent straight to your door.
