Top lifting tips from Codi
Garage equipment provider Codi International has issued advice for workshop operators on the variety of vehicle lifting equipment available for commercial applications.
“When specifying lifts, a number of factors must be considered, including vehicle type, maximum vehicle weight, vehicle dimensions, load distribution and type of work being done,” advised Codi.
“Some vehicles have very uneven load distribution especially when they are unladen. Trailers present their own difficulties when being lifted.”
The company warns against under-specification; lifts should easily be able to handle the expected range of vehicles.
“Vehicles are generally getting longer and heavier,” it said.
“Vehicle technology is changing rapidly with move towards zero emissions; this may lead to completely different demands on a lift. A higher capacity model will have more scope to adapt to future changes.”
When looking at the costs of a lift, says Codi, price isn’t everything.
“The initial purchase price of electro-mechanical lifts is usually lower than that of hydraulic models. However, hydraulic lifts have much lower power consumption and far lower maintenance costs and over time, can often work out more cost efficient. A good quality, well-maintained lift is an investment that will give many years of trouble-free service.”
Garage equipment professionals such as Codi International or other Garage Equipment Association members will be able to advise on the most suitable type of lift, says the firm, as well as maintenance and legal requirements.
“Mobile column lifts are possibly the most versatile of all vehicle lifts; they lift the vehicle by its wheels so there is no problem with identifying suitable lifting points,” said the company.
Codi offers several models, all of which can be configured to lift in multiples of two to eight, and more in some cases.
“Wireless hydraulic mobile provide the ultimate in flexibility; they only require a suitable level surface on which to operate,” the firm continued.
“Codi offer wireless mobile columns from the US market leader, Gray Manufacturing Inc. The lifts are hydraulic in operation and completely wireless and only require periodic charging. They are also waterproof. They have no trailing cables to damage, replace or act as a trip hazard. This means they can be used anywhere that there is a large enough flat surface, e.g. workshop floor, outside vehicle park, even in a washbay. There is no need for installation, new electrical supplies, groundworks etc.”
All feature adjustable carriages to accommodate wheel sizes between 5” and 24”, and tyre grips which prevent tyre slip and onboard weighing. Retractable positioning wheels mean that the base of the column is entirely supported instead of loading the positioning wheels.
Meanwhile, hydraulic inground lifts such as those offered by German manufacturer Fuchs Hydraulik GmbH offer an alternative to conventional platform lifts, mobile columns and pits, says Codi.
The lifts comprise two or more hydraulic rams mounted on rails in a trough in the workshop floor. Vehicles are raised by lifting the vehicle’s axles.
“The rams are moved by a powered adjuster which makes positioning very quick,” said the firm.
“The trough is fitted with an automatic moveable cover which ensures that it is covered at all times. Lifts are available in load capacities from 16 – 60 tonnes.
“The lifts allow the wheels to be removed without the need for axle stands, jacks or other equipment. The height of the vehicle can be changed as required when being worked on; access to the underside of the vehicle is unhindered. Technicians can position vehicles in the best possible position to work on them…
“The lifts take up little space in the workshop and when lowered allow the floor to be used for other activities.”
