Making the auto lift more small tractor friendly

plastikosmd · Mar 18, 2017

Well here was today's project. The lifts I have can bumper or frame lift from ends but for small machines that is not ideal. I need to lift my atv's, small tractors and Argo 8x8. I had 4 10' pieces of angle that I had salvaged. These are 6"x4"x3/8". Weight is 125lbs a piece.
This is how the frame lifts attach to lifts. Just a sleeve that slides over the arms, both are in pic for reference.

Here is my scrap. The one on the right is a single and my plan is to double them up like on left. 5 bolt holes are already present. 3/4 grade 8 bolts go in. (I wonder what the yield strength of this construct?)

Worked like a charm but they are heavy at 250lb per section

So I popped some steel casters off their mounts (more from the scrap pile) and drilled and bolted them on.

I did this at the balance point so they now roll and turn with just my foot to guide. Very smooth and easy. Frankly I did a bit too well finding the balance point as they tend to want to just roll on their own with just a stiff breeze!

George2615 · Mar 18, 2017

Nice. I use a similar set up for my ATV and riding mower. I have a Challenger twin post lift and use 6" wide C-Channel across the lift pads (sorry, no pics).

Can you connect your Rotary lifts electronically by cable so one operator can lift both or do you need an operator on each.

plastikosmd · Mar 18, 2017

They are wireless and remote controlled. No cords, no cables. You can also control at the columns as needed

Texasmark · Mar 18, 2017

Well I see you are in your new facility. I compliment you on your neatness and hygiene. Last time I caught one of your posts it was in the latter construction stages. Looks like you have the room and assets to do what needs/wants to be done.