Do I Need a Car Lift or a Pit?

Many vehicle enthusiasts remain divided when arguing whether using a lift or a pit to work on cars is better. You need to consider certain factors with both options, such as where you'll use a pit or lift and which common vehicle types each one is more suited for. You also need to factor in safety and the costs involved with both.

This guide discusses the difference between using a pit versus a hoist or lift. We also explore the types of lifts, their advantages and why you're probably better off choosing a lift.

Car Lift vs. Pit

Traditionally, car pits have been the tried and trusted choice for workshops. They were previously associated with poor working conditions and lighting, the risk of falling in or being trapped underneath a stationary car, and other hazards. With the development of new technology, these concerns are a thing of the past. However, pits still have their shortcomings. Some of these include:

• High installation costs
• A fixed vehicle height that may limit flexibility for the mechanic
• Not being able to move them if you change your workshop location
• Whether the mechanic can escape in an emergency or get someone to rescue them from underneath

Lifts meet the needs of almost every mechanic and workshop. For jobs that require taking out an engine or other strenuous activity, a truck hoist is a good option. If you have a diverse client base and deal with many different types of vehicles regularly, you can choose different lift options instead of having one fixed tool, like a pit.

Lifts must comply with the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI), so you can rest assured knowing that they adhere to all ALI safety standards.

Workshop

Workshops enjoy the benefits of lifts the most because they can cater to every motorist. Whether clients drive motorcycles, passenger vehicles, vans, trucks or buses, there's a lift to fit their requirements. Additionally, workshops generally have the necessary space and height provisions to accommodate any lift type and size, and many can even fit multiple lifts.

Home

If you're a car enthusiast or a mechanic working from your home garage, lifts are the best option for you. When you lack space, it's important to maximize it, and a lift can help save space. Larger lifts can increase vertical storage, while smaller ones can be stored after use.

Besides using the lift to work on your car, a larger lift can also serve as parking in your garage if you own more than one vehicle. A four-post lift is an excellent choice for keeping cars parked vertically in your garage, securely undercover and safe from the weather and theft.

A garage pit might be impractical and expensive to install. You'll need heavy equipment to excavate and may need to obtain specific building permits and inspection certificates for the renovation to be approved. There are also concerns from a safety perspective, so it might not be feasible in the long run.

Safety Hazards of Lifts

Your safety comes first. There are always risks involved when dealing with car servicing and repairs, whether you use a lift or a pit. Here are some of the safety hazards to keep in mind when using a lift:

• Exceeding the weight capacity: Never exceed the lift's weight capacity, as it could lead to damage or injury.
• Lift instability: Check that the lift is on even ground, or you could risk the car tilting or sustaining serious injury as you work.
• Improperly securing vehicles: Always ensure the vehicle is secure so it doesn't fall off the lift during the job. Improperly secure vehicles can become damaged or injure someone.
• Lack of maintenance: Regularly inspecting moveable parts and doing proper maintenance reduces hazards and prolongs the service life of your lift.
• Unqualified operators: All operators should have some form of qualification or training to operate any lift in your workshop or personal garage space. Be sure everyone uses the lift responsibly and adheres to safety regulations.

All heavy machinery comes with safety precautions to help ensure no harm comes to the vehicle or anyone working on or around it. It is everyone's responsibility to be alert to their surroundings and do the necessary checks consistently when using a lift in a workshop or garage.

Types of Lifts

The best thing about using lifts instead of pits is that you can choose from different types to perform specific functions. Here are a few of the available options:

• Two-post lifts: Having fewer posts makes a two-post lift easier to install, and it takes up less floor space.
• Four-post lifts: Four-post lifts are suitable for workshops with high ceilings and can accommodate bigger vehicles.
• Alignment lifts: These specialized lifts help mechanics repair vehicles involved in accidents.
• Single-column lifts: Small and compact, single-column lifts are your best option for portability and ease of access in and out of your garage.
• Scissor lifts: These lifts are versatile and a great space saver, offering maximum safety and security wherever you use them.
• Service and storage lifts: These lifts come in various options that cater to a wide range of needs.
• Low-rise lifts: Low-rise lifts are perfect for keeping vehicles a little taller so you can work on the tires or under the hood without having to bend over constantly.
• Mid-rise lifts: Mid-rise lifts are a little taller and extend to mid-length to keep vehicles at a required height.
• Motorcycle lifts: Not just for motorcycles, these lifts work with all smaller vehicles, such as ATVs and lawn mowers, that need servicing and repairs.

With this many options, you're sure to find a lift that suits your needs.

Advantages of a Lift

If you aren't yet convinced that a lift is just what you need, here are some advantages of a lift:

• Cost saving: They might be pricey to acquire initially, but buying a car lift will save you money and time in the long run.
• Space savers: Whether you're using a lift to work on cars or park vehicles vertically, you'll save space efficiently.
• Convenience: Any time you need to check or fix something on your car, you'll have the convenience of a lift.

The first step is deciding the primary purpose of having your own lift so you can make the right decision.

Contact North American Auto Equipment for the Lift You Need

At North American Auto Equipment, you'll find exactly what you're looking for. We have every lift available, and our team is eager to deliver and install the lift you want, when and where you want it. If you have a lift and need parts, we've got you covered.

Call us at (866)-607-4022 or contact us online, and we'll gladly answer your questions, give you sound advice and help you choose the perfect lift to meet your needs.