Does Your Lift Need Servicing?

A lift is like a car: You have to take care of it on a consistent basis in order for it to work. A high-quality lift will be reliable and stand the test of time, but no piece of equipment is immune to wear and tear. The more you know what to look out for, the more value you’ll get out of your lift.

Failing Locks & Cable Damage

The safety locks and restraints of your lift are the single most important parts keeping you and your vehicle safe while you perform your work. Over time, like any part of a piece of machinery, they will accumulate wear and may not do their job as well as they should. You should be regularly inspecting this and other aspects of your lift, so if things seem a bit weaker than usual, it may be time to have some servicing done. Cables should also be frequently inspected, as they’re incredibly important for smooth and secure lift operation. If you see heat damage, warping, protrusion, or other issues, replacement may be needed.

Structural Wear and Tear

When inspecting your lift, it may be easy to forget about checking in on contact points where the arms or runway meet the vehicle. Considering how much weight they bear, these areas can be especially prone to wear and tear over time. Keep an eye out for damage here that might require servicing. The same goes for excessive wear or damage to bolts, swing arms, or the carriage of the lift. Another problem area to be aware of is the areas of concrete floor where the base of your lift is installed. You might need servicing if you see that it is not fully secure or that there are cracks or other damage in the concrete at the base.

Hydraulic & Electrical Issues

One thing that should be cause for immediate concern when inspecting your lift is any hydraulic or pneumatic leakage. Depending on the cause and severity, you might need a repair done to prevent serious malfunction. This, and any issues with your electrical components, are precisely why it can be so important and informative to test your lift before using it. Raising the arms or runway without a vehicle on it can tell you a lot about hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical functionality. Listen for unusual sounds, irregular movement, or stalling. The better you know your lift, the more you’ll be able to tell when repairs are necessary.

The team at Lift King believes that the customer experience doesn’t stop when the purchase is made. Not only are our warranties the best in the business, we’re here to help answer questions about how to get the most out of your lift. Call us at (403) 283-1020 and we’ll be happy to help!