looking to purchase a 9000 lb's 2 post hoist. any recommendations on what brand or what to look out for? garage ceiling height is 10'. floor is 4" thick should i cut out the section were the post will be sitting and pour a thicker pad for the post?

 

I have a Rotary two post lift and love it. It wouldn't fit with a 10' ceiling though. They do make baseplate models for lower ceiling heights. I wouldn't buy a cheap no name import lift. A tool that holds 4k pounds over your head is no place to go generic IMO. Good name brand lifts such as Rotary, Challenger and Bend-Pak often come up on Craigslist for the price of new no name lifts. If you don't mind spending the big cheese few will argue that Mohawk is the cream of the crop.

 

I agree that buying a cheapy is not wise. I have a Mohawk myself. Expensive, yes, but one can save money by getting a used one, which is what I did.

For whatever it is worth, 4" pad may be a little thin. Mine is 9"?

 

Try yardbuddy.com

 

I have a 9000 LB Rotary (A-Symetrical)..... Great lift IMO... Mounted to 6" floor with 12'8" ceiling height.... I have owned it for 10 years (purchased new) and have never had a problem.....

 

Rotary offset is the cat's meow. I'm sure Mohawk has one as well.

I agree, don't mess around with cheap crap - you want to be fixing your cars, not your lift.

As for concrete, follow the manufacturer's recommendations, and make SURE that the concrete company is reputable and doesn't skimp on the mix.

- Eric

 

I've had a Gemini(USA made in TX) 4 poster for years, but mostly for storing my Olds on top of 48" tall Corvette. Nice quality lift, as many out there are cheap China knock offs. Those are probably ok too, but rather not trust my baby on who knows what. Also check into the Dannmar MaxJax two poster, as doesn't need to be permanently installed.

 

this is the one i got. it is a $1500 China made lift but it is very good.
http://www.gregsmithequipment.com/Atlas-9KBP
when i was looking for lifts i found some that i wouldn't want to put my lawn mower on. i had this one for a little over 3 years now and still works like a new one. it has a great safety and backup safety for if the primary safety fails. i have a 10'4" ceiling and i can put most cars all the way up.

 

Rotary!