choosing the best

These two factors are often considered the two most critical decisions in selecting an alignment lift. However, drive-on height should be considered the third. Newer sedans can have ground clearance concerns similar to sports cars. Damaging a spoiler or rocker panel will tarnish your shop’s reputation and decrease the profit of many jobs to come.

Does the brand you are considering also manufacture alignment instrumentation? The wheel alignment lift is a critical component of the alignment system. Don't entrust your work quality to a company that doesn't understand the entire process.

The most durable and strongest alignment lifts are generally the most heavily built. Wherever possible, look at a lift in service if you can. Your local representative or distributor should be able to direct you to an in-service lift in your area. If they can't, is that a brand you want to consider?

Don’t substitute evaluating shipping weight specs for actually seeing a product first hand. Shipping weights are often misrepresented for automotive lifts.

Wheel alignment lifts often do much more than just go up and down. Many include features that drive productivity in the service center by saving time, effort and increasing accuracy.

All wheel alignment lifts should be equipped with two wheels-free jacks as wheels’ free operations are often necessary. Make sure the jack capacities match or slightly exceed the capacity of the lift.

Look at your jack choices very carefully. Reach, max lifting height, safety and durability are critical measures. Direct acting air style jacks are generally more durable than air to hydraulic style jacks.

Lifts are still "old style" products made by traditional manufacturers in many ways. Great lift companies have developed reputations over many years. In most cases these reputations are well deserved and should be respected.

No lift purchase should even be considered that isn't ALI listed for both electrical and mechanical certifications. Lifts are safety devices and should be viewed as such.

All products break or need adjustment over a lifetime of use, even lifts. Be sure to purchase from a manufacturer with a solid service organization.

The alignment lift you select will often be dictated by the space available. Generally, you get more lifting capacity for your dollar with a 4-post style, but at the cost of space. Scissor lifts are very space efficient but cost a little more. Flush mounting can reduce the footprint further.