Scissor Car Lifts

What is a Scissor Lift?

Car Scissor Lifts are versatile pieces of automotive equipment that are used to lift vehicles to higher elevations. They work by using a series of crisscrossed metal supports, or scissors, that expand and contract to raise and lower the platform. Scissor lifts are commonly used in garages, repair shops. and workspaces.

Scissor Lifts come in a range of sizes and capacities, from small portable lifts to large commercial lifts that are able to support heavy-duty vehicles. They are typically powered by an electric motor and hydraulic pump, which work together to lift and lower the lift platform smoothly and safely.

One of the main advantages of a scissor car lift is its compact design, which makes it ideal for use in smaller repair shops and garages where space may be limited. They also offer a stable and secure platform for working on vehicles, which can help to prevent accidents and injuries.

What Are the Types of Scissor Lifts?

Scissor Lifts for cars are designed specifically for automotive repair and maintenance tasks. There are several different types of Scissor Lifts, each designed for specific purposes. The most common types of scissor lifts are:

• Wheel free scissor lifts – Lift the vehicle via the jacking points, leaving the wheels free to be removed.
• Platform scissor lifts – these lifts raise the vehicle from the wheels, therefore very they are very quick to load a vehicle onto.
• Mid rise scissor lift – Often used in body or tyre shops, where there is no need to raise the vehicle above 1m.

OMCN’s Scissor Lifts

Wheel Free Scissor lift:

These electrohydraulic vehicle lifts raise the car from the jacking points via rubber blocks leaving the wheels free to be removed. Capacities in OMCN’s range are 3, 3.5 and 4T, mid-rise or full height models are available and these can either be floor mounted or recessed.

All models have extendable platforms to allow longer vehicles to be lifted, the platforms are hydraulically synchronised and have a levelling control device.

The low-profile model is only 105mm when fully lowered, which means there is only a slight bump to get the vehicle over, or if it is recessed there is minimal groundwork. Each platform has 2 pistons which have safety and lock valves in case of a pipe splitting, therefore there is no need for a mechanical safety or a compressed air supply to release the safeties.

Standard inground models include a manual pump to release the mechanical safeties in case of loss of electrical supply.

Platform Scissor Lift:

OMCN’s range of platform scissor lifts can be manufactured to a wide range of specifications to suit the clients requirements. With lifting capacities from 3.5T – 5T, platform lengths from 4.6m – 5.4m, recessed of surface mounted, with or without secondary lifting table and flat platforms or with slip plates and recesses for radius plates to allow wheel alignment.

All models are electrohydraulic and are fitted with safety valves in case of damage to a hose, to control the descent speed and prevent overloading. The platforms are synchronised hydraulically and level independently of the load distribution. There are no mechanical connections between the platforms (unlike 4 Post Lifts) allowing you to work without any restriction.

X-Line Scissor Lift:

OMCN’s X-LINE lifts are a patented design and are the flagship model in the ‘Scissor’ range. They have a full-length platform with no mechanical connections between the platforms and use 2 small scissors one at either end of the platforms to raise the bed. This combines the floor space saving aspect of a standard scissor lift with the open space under a 4 Post Lift. When recessed in the floor and false floor can be fitted, to create a level workspace both when the lift is in use and in its down position.

The lifts are fitted with safety valves in case of hydraulic hose damage, to control the descent speed and prevent overloading. The platforms are levelled hydraulically, this is controlled electronically via a PLC and encoder.

The X-LINE can be fitted with a secondary lifting platform to get the wheels free, and can be equipped with slip plates and recesses for radius plates for carrying out wheel alignment.

Benefits of Scissor Lifts

There are several benefits to using scissor lifts, including:

• Increased safety – Scissor Lifts provide a stable platform for mechanics to safely lift and work on a vehicle
• Increased efficiency – Scissor Lifts allow workers to access hard-to-reach areas quickly and easily, reducing the time and effort needed to complete tasks
• Versatility – Scissor Lifts can be used for a variety of tasks and are available in various sizes to suit specific needs
• Space saving – Scissor lifts have very little protruding beyond the sides of the vehicle (ie no external posts) which saves 30 % of workshop space.
• Cost-effective – Scissor Lifts are a cost-effective alternative to 4 post lifts when you take into account the few wearing parts on scissors lifts compared to 4 post lifts and therefore less on going maintenance.

Safety When Using Scissor Lifts

While Scissor Lifts are safe to use when handled correctly, there are still risks involved. You should never exceed the weight capacity of the Lift, always keep the scissor lift on a level surface. And always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance.

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a Scissor Lift. You should regularly inspect the Lift for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, rust, and loose bolts. Keep the scissor lift clean and free of debris, and lubricate moving parts regularly to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. 

Why Choose a Scissor Lift?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a scissor lift, such as height requirements – consider the maximum height you need to reach and choose a scissor lift that can accommodate that height. Weight capacity – consider the maximum weight you need to lift and choose a Scissor Lift with a capacity that exceeds that weight. And if you need to use the Scissor Lift outdoors OMCN can hot galvanise the platforms so it will stand up to the weather. 

Purchasing a Scissor Lift

Scissor Lifts are versatile pieces of equipment that provide a safe and efficient way to access hard-to-reach areas. When choosing a Scissor Lift, there are several types and sizes available to suit your specific needs.

If you are considering purchasing a Scissor Lift, or if you already have one but need maintenance or advice, contact us to see how we can help with all your Car Lift and automotive tools needs.