Which type of two-post car lift is better, asymmetric or symmetric? This is the most asked question. The answer is neither. Your application and your preference will determine the style of two-post lift that will be best for you.
Here are the facts of each style. You decide which one is best for you. If you still have questions, feel free to give us a call!
THE SYMMETRIC LIFT
- The very first 2-post lift design was a symmetric design
- Columns are straight across from each other
- All 4 arms are the same length
- Load % is 50/50
- Symmetric lifts can be used on an Overhead or Floorplate design.
- The symmetric design was made for older, heavier steel vehicles
- BEST USES for a symmetric lift – SUV’s, ¾ ton – 1 ton size trucks and commercial vans
- On standard cars, the door will be in line with the post, making it difficult to get in and out of the vehicle while it is on the lift, resulting in damaged vehicle doors. Trucks and heavier vehicles, the door is positioned in front of the lift post, making it a better design for these types of vehicles.
Check out Eagle’s Certified Symmetric ALI/ETL Two Post Car Lift.
Below is an example of one our symmetric Eagle Lifts:
THE TRUE ASYMMETRIC LIFT
- Designed after the symmetric lift to accommodate the lighter-built vehicles
- Has a 30-degree turn in the column – allowing for the vehicle to be offset on the lift. Doors can be opened while on the lift for easier entry and exit, minimizing chances of damaged doors from banging against post.
- Load is 1/3 of the vehicle on the front arms and 2/3 of the vehicle on the rear arms
- Front arms are shorter than the rear arms
- Floor plate lifts are not available in asymmetric because it would not allow the arms to store to the rear properly.
Check out Eagle’s Certified Asymmetric ALI/ETL Two Post Car Lift.
THE TRUE ASYMMETRIC FLOOR PLAN
THE NEW STYLE ASYMMETRIC FLOOR PLAN
There is a new asymmetric design that has symmetric post and asymmetric arms. This design incorporates both style lifts to maximize the benefits of each style.
I want a 9000 pound lift so you could open your doors which one do I need
an Asymmetric lift sounds like what you’re looking for.
I am looking for a 2 post lift to do 1 ton trucks but also light vehicles as well what lift would you suggest ?
i have a small used auto sales business and am in need of a lift. i feel like i want an asymmetrical lift due to the ease of exit and entry of the vehicle however i dont want to limit myself to small vehicles, and would like to be able to put full size trucks on the lift. what do i neeed
George, We’re sorry we’re just seeing this comment. If you’re still looking for a lift we would be happy to assist you. Give us a call at 800-336-2776.
When you say “Full-Size” trucks, do you mean F-250’s and below? We recommend at least an 11,000 lbs or 12,000 lbs lift. We sell a lot of the MTP-12C model, so you may check that one out!
I plan on getting a 2 post lift capable of lifting a jeep wrangler , suburban and dodge ram 2500 diesel. What size would best suit me and what lift style as sym or asy?
Paul, it’s great that you’re asking before purchasing the lift… with specific vehicles in mind. You should look at our 12,000 lbs. models. We have an MTP-12C, MTP-12F. Depending on the ceiling height you have to work with… there is a floor-plate model and an overhead model.
I have a 2005 Chevy Duramax 3500 4 door long box. Would be the biggest vehicle on the hoist and not very often. Would I be ok with a 9,000 asymmetrical?
No. The 9K lift is for cars and light suvs.A 3500 4-door is way to front heavy to put that weight on the front arms.
Give us a call and we can talk you though getting the correct lift!
With the 11k or 12k sym lifts can you enter the lift from either direction? I know you cant on asym.
I am looking for a lift for my summer drive hot rod and to service my Chevy 2500 HD also what would be best lift for me in my shop with 14ft height ceiling ? Thanks
The Eagle ECL-10 (https://www.eagleequip.com/product/ECL-10AS.html) or the MTP-12C (https://www.eagleequip.com/product/MTP-12C.html) would be the best options for you.