Lift_Guide_2021 - 7

professionals who can help them to
see the big picture - this includes the
lift manufacturer, installer, and even a
facility planner. In today's world, there
are more resources and tools than
ever available at a buyer's fingertips -
resources designed to help customers
feel supported through the process, and
confident in this important purchasing
decision. One such tool end-users can
tap into is 3-D floor planning software.
Some U.S. lift manufacturers harness the help of special software to
walk customers through a conceptualized redesign of their facility for
3-D visual experience. The Swedenbased ECDESIGN is one company that
offers this experience. According to
their website, " The ECDESIGN Repair
Shop Planner [helps end-users] create
a well-planned layout and maximize
usage of space. " Features of the software include drawing tools, the ability
to input existing drawings, 3-D models,
and " walkthrough " videos showcasing a
final floorplan.
" Using 3-D space planning in
the repair shop design and planning
process can help ensure customers receive the best possible solution for their facility, " the company
says. " [End-users can] customize
the layout to maximize floor space
and use equipment from automotive
aftermarket companies. "

SHOP SMART AND SAFE
Knowing the dimensions of your workspace, the weight classes of the vehicles
you'll be lifting, and what features are
most important to you - even before
comparing brands - will all save time
in the purchasing process.

Rotary Lift's Belt recommends
prospective lift buyers consult directly
with lift manufacturers for technical
specifications on specific products.
Together, they can determine what lift
best suits the weight class of vehicles
serviced, as well as any " importantto-you " product features, such as
charging capabilities.
" Does [the lift] require adding
220V or three-phase power wiring to
the shop, or does it operate on batterypowered 110V that can be charged with
a standard outlet? " Belt asks.
Finally, don't neglect safety. Buyers
should compare safety features and systems of all lifting products, and always
look for the gold label that reads " ALI
Certified, " as only lifts that have passed
independent safety testing can use
this label.
When the research into fit, function, and features is done, it's time to
buy. But the journey to technician satisfaction and improved ROI doesn't
end there. After the purchase it's time
to work with a reputable lift installer to
get the new lifting equipment up and
ready to use in the bay. Many lift manufacturers use a network of third-party
service teams throughout the country to
help end-users with installation, setup,
and support.
And after that, a consistent, closely adhered to maintenance schedule
will set the stage for success, as wellmaintained equipment prevents downtime and ensures technicians are safe
and productive.
Determining not merely which lifts
work - but where they work - will help
ensure maximum technician productivity and safety on the job.

Photo from Rotary Lift.

The best lift equipment lets technicians work
comfortably and efficiently, while at the same
time maximizing available space and ensuring a
smooth workflow.

Smart lift purchase
takeaways:
*	 Choose the right lift for you.
Consider lift capacity,
clearance, foundation
requirements, and whether
the lift can access manufacturerrecommended lifting points on
the vehicles you serve.
*	 Review local building code
regulations. The International
Building Code requires that any
vehicle lift installed meet the
safety standard ANSI/ALI ALCTV
(current edition).
*	 Confirm the lift is ALI-certified.
Look for the ALI Gold
Certification Label.
*	 Get help from trusted
professionals. Work with
experts at ALI member
companies, participants, or
approved distribution channels.
*	 Check for scams and false
claims. Review the current list
of 'Buyer Beware' claims and lift
certification FAQs.
*	 Remember the accessories.
You may be able to improve a
lift's versatility with options and
accessories, but make sure
they're approved for use with
that specific lift.
Source: Automotive Lift Institute

autolift.org

March 2021 I Vehicle Lift Guide I 7
http://www.autolift.org
Lift_Guide_2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Lift_Guide_2021
