1. Sizing Lift Capacity: 4-Ton vs 5-Ton
Selecting the proper tonnage depends entirely on the vehicle mix your workshop services:
4,000 kg (4 Ton) Hydraulic Lift
Ideal for sedans, hatchbacks, compact crossovers, and mid-size SUVs (Creta, Seltos, Swift, Innova). Accounts for 85% of multi-brand passenger workshops in Kerala.
5,000 kg (5 Ton) Hydraulic Lift
Required for commercial passenger vans, long-wheelbase pickups (Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max), armored vehicles, and light commercial vehicles (Traveller, Bolero Maxi).
2. Design Architecture: Clear-Floor vs Base-Plate
Clear-Floor Design (Top Crossbeam)
The hydraulic synchronization cables and hoses run across an overhead arch beam. The floor beneath the car remains completely flat and clear.
- Effortless movement for transmission jacks and oil drainers
- Overhead safety shut-off bar prevents vehicle roof damage
- Requires minimum 3.8m ceiling clearance
Base-Plate Design (Floor Crossbar)
Cables run through a low-profile ramp plate on the floor between the two columns. No top beam connects the columns.
- Fits garages with low ceilings (2.8m – 3.2m height)
- Slightly lower equipment investment cost
- Transmission jacks must roll over the center floor ramp
3. Concrete Foundation & Anchoring Standards
Never install a 2-post lift on hollow blocks, asphalt, or cracked screed flooring. A lift exerts thousands of kilograms of tensile pull on its mounting base anchors.
Need on-site lift measurements or anchoring guidance in Kerala?
Our Calicut engineering team visits your workshop location to assess slab thickness and electrical supply.