Straightset offers lift selection advice
Selecting the correct vehicle servicing equipment is essential for workshop efficiency, safety, and long-term investment, says garage equipment specialist Straightset – but many workshop owners and fleet managers find themselves uncertain about the best solution for their specific needs.
“The key is to match the lift type to the vehicles you service, taking into account their weight, size, and whether they will be loaded or empty during maintenance,” advised Straightset managing director Andrew Bates.
“Before investing in a lift, determine the maximum weight and size of the vehicles you intend to work on. A 10-tonne truck weighs 10 tonnes when fully loaded (gross vehicle weight – GVW). Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) are often serviced while fully loaded, whereas recovery vehicles are typically presented empty; this distinction is critical when selecting lifting equipment.”
Working with a knowledgeable supplier ensures that your equipment matches your operational needs and that expert aftersales support is readily available, says Andrew.
“They can also guide and advise on what lift best suits your space.”
Vehicle pits are suitable for vehicles of unlimited weight, he observes, and ideal for heavy-duty servicing, but will require additional lifting equipment such as pit jacks – and since they are not a portable option, they are best suited for permanent workshops.
Meanwhile in-ground commercial lifts are highly adaptable with capacities up to 60 tonnes (four rams), says Andrew, and a cost-effective pit alternative, but can be expensive to relocate.
Two-post lifts may be “suitable for vehicles up to 8 tonnes unladen” and “ideal for servicing and wheel-well work”, he adds – but are “not recommended for tasks that shift the vehicle’s centre of gravity without additional support”.
Platform lifts can be installed as surface-mounted or recessed, he continues; four- and six-post lifts can offer up to 25-tonne capacity with 9m platforms, and can be twin-linked to double length and capacity; while scissor lifts can provide up to 35-tonne capacity with 10m platforms, and are also available in twin-linked configurations.
“Mobile column lifts, available from 5 tonnes to 7.5 tonnes per column, can be used in multiple pairs for flexibility,” said Andrew, “[and] available in cabled or battery-powered versions.”
“Suitable for outdoor use, [they] can be used with support stands to increase servicing efficiency and support wheel removal.”
Andrew concluded: “Selecting the right lift involves careful consideration of vehicle weight, servicing needs, and workshop layout. Investing in the right solution from a knowledgeable supplier ensures long-term efficiency, safety, and productivity for your workshop.”
