Understanding Your Lift Cables

There isn’t a single part of your car lift that doesn’t deserve attention and maintenance. This is how you ensure safe and dependable operation in the long term. However, many lifts make use of one particularly important component: equalization cables. It’s best that you get acquainted.

What Do They Do?

In both two post and four post automotive lifts, cables are essential for safe and effective operation. Those who are new to car lifts may assume that the cables are the main component entrusted with raising the vehicle along the columns of the lift. In reality, this isn’t exactly the purpose they serve. Instead, they ensure that the vehicle is raised smoothly and evenly, thus the term “equalization cables”. On two post lifts, for instance, they’re responsible for keeping the swing arms level with one another. Without this equalization, uneven lifting of the vehicle could lead to unsafe operation, problems working on your vehicle, and damage to the lift.

Damage & Wear

Like any mechanical part, equalization cables accumulate wear and tear over time. In some circumstances they can experience more significant issues. Heat damage, mechanical damage, and other problems can lead to bent, dislocated, or severed strands. As long as you purchase the right cables and keep an eye on them, however the most common form of wear you’re likely to experience is stretching, which can often be addressed with adjustment. It is of the utmost importance that your equalization cables are manufactured to the highest standards, but no matter how well-made your cables are, they will eventually need to be replaced.

Taking Care of Them

Caring for your equalization cables is often a matter of combining routine inspection with use of the right lubricant. Aside from a close visual inspection of the cables and the way your lift raises a vehicle, you can also listen to the locks on your lift as they click during elevation. Locks that click out of sync with one another may indicate need for cable adjustment or replacement. It’s key to inspect not only the cables themselves, but also the sheaves and guide rollers. Always source your replacement cables from the same people you bought your lift from, especially if your lift came from a respected specialist with a total commitment to quality!

At Lift King, we don’t just sell you a lift and send you on your way. We’re there to help you get the most out of it for years to come. With our highly competitive warranty and devotion to excellent customer service, you can count on us. Give us a call at (403) 283-1020 to learn more!