What's involved with installing a hydraulic lift?

[Balsax]

I'm going to build a 32'X30' shop this summer and was thinking getting a lift. I was wondering what is involved in installing a lift (not the old school style w/ large cylinder in the ground). I'm not interested in the four post style...just the two post ones with arms so I can remove axles/tires easier. I've seen them advertised for like $2K (which seems reasonable) and was wondering what kind of concrete footings I'll need. Any other major costs/concerns?

thanks in advance,
mike

[CJeep77]

They recommend 6 to 8 inches of concrete for the post anchors. While installing the anchors in the floor as you pour it would be best, all of my friends just use the 5/8 x 6" readhead style anchors. Holds up fine. Just plan on a ceiling height to accomidate vans, ect.

One more thing...might want to run your electric in the floor to it if you plan ahead.

[Balsax]

I'll be pouring this spring. So you don't need a special footing w/ rebar or anything? Thanks for the suggestion on power! I'll put some conduit in before I pour. My ceiling height should be fine.

[roundeye]

I'll be pouring this spring. So you don't need a special footing w/ rebar or anything? Thanks for the suggestion on power! I'll put some conduit in before I pour. My ceiling height should be fine.

You will need to have your slab engineered or at least meet your counties requirements. I have put in most every brand of lift and most of them recommend at least a 6 inch slab. If you know the exact lift placement, you could possibly pour thicker in that area approx. 4 foot by 4 foot by 6 inches thick around the post bases. Electrical is also a good idea as already said but sometimes is easier run via ceiling so the conduit is not in the way at the floor level.

[evenBIGGERrock]

I've also been looking at lifts since I'm not too far off from a shop being built. Couple of learnings I've come across:

I'm going for an ALI certified lift. You can get "hobby" lifts for cheaper, but personally I'm willing to pay for the safety margin. (just something to think about).

All the mfg.s I've looked at have a recommendation of anywhere from 4-6" slabs with 3000-4000 psi mix, depending on mfg and lift model.

Some lifts are symmetric, some are asymmetric, some are both. Take a look at your options and what you'll be lifting.

Consider whether you want a clear floor or clear overhead. They all have something going across the two pillars for lift synchronization. Personally I like the idea of having a clear floor to make it easy for things like tranny jacks and such. The tradeoff from that is most of these types of lift require a 12-12.5' min. ceiling.

I've started out ignorant on anything related to lifts so I've been wanting to do some homework and these are some key tidbits I've learned so far. I'm glad I started doing this now since it can affect how I will build the shop. ;)