dculberson wrote:
bravenrace wrote:
You can add jacks to get the car up off the ramps, but you can't do the opposite with a two post.
I'm definitely not disagreeing, as I don't have a lift at all, but what would you need to do that a 2-post lift wouldn't work for? Just about the only thing I can think of is working on the doors, which you'd probably do with the car on the ground..
General Benefits:
A four post is free standing, and can be moved around with ease. Because of that, you can move it out in the driveway to pressure wash or sandblast without messing up the shop. You can also do alignments on a four post lift. You can add cross members and use it to lift a riding mower, ATV, or off road go kart. They are better for general parking They don't require additional strengthening of the floor like two post lifts do. They are generally more stable than a 2 post, and often are cheaper for the same quality. Two post lifts take up more room side to side. Four post lifts are better for R&R'ng a transmission or exhaust system.
Personal Benefits:
I have a bad back, and leaning down to adjust the arms is something I can't do. BTW, it's not easy for anyone. I have hydronic floor heat and didn't want to drill into my floor for fear of puncturing the tubing. I used to be a mechanic, and have worked on all kinds of lifts. I personally think it's easier to jack a car up off the ramps of a 4 post and it is to get the arms adjusted right to raise a car on a two post. And you better make sure the car is balance on a two post before you go to tighten that lower control arm bolt!
Somewhere I have a list of pros and cons, and I'm sure there's more, but that's all I can think of right now. The biggest factor for most people I think would be portability and stability.
