Model T on a 2-post lift
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Topic author - Posts: 1554
- Joined: Sun Jan 06, 2019 11:16 am
- First Name: Don
- Last Name: Allen
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- Location: Houston, TX
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Model T on a 2-post lift
Is it practical, advisable or even possible to place a Model T on a 2-post lift?
1924 Touring
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- First Name: Tim
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Don, as I researched both 2-post and 4-post, the answer really isn't clear cut.
Certainly it's a personal choice for one.
But you also have to probably adapt it somewhat to fit under that tiny little frame.
Then my concern was for all that 3-point suspension just "hanging there".
Then there's the concern for stability of ONLY two posts. You HAVE to have it securely mounted to the floor. Mine, just "sits" there.
Frankly, I am so so glad I got the 4-poster. The ramps really do not pose that much of a problem.
And, I can put my F150 on it as well as other cars, I even adapted the flanges to hold my CubCadet SubCompact Tractor!
I love it!
Just my opinion.
Certainly it's a personal choice for one.
But you also have to probably adapt it somewhat to fit under that tiny little frame.
Then my concern was for all that 3-point suspension just "hanging there".
Then there's the concern for stability of ONLY two posts. You HAVE to have it securely mounted to the floor. Mine, just "sits" there.
Frankly, I am so so glad I got the 4-poster. The ramps really do not pose that much of a problem.
And, I can put my F150 on it as well as other cars, I even adapted the flanges to hold my CubCadet SubCompact Tractor!
I love it!
Just my opinion.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Yes.RustyFords wrote: ↑Wed Nov 11, 2020 8:12 amIs it practical, advisable or even possible to place a Model T on a 2-post lift?
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Jeffrey...I see you use 4x4s as a method to support the suspension. Excellent idea. That looks like one hefty, expensive lift!!
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Calculated for 1650 lbs, safety factor of 2, 1/4" deflection.
It has to be done correctly, but it can be done.
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- First Name: Norman
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
What is the purpose of the lift? Why not just leave it parked on the floor? For most small jobs under the car, it is high enough for the average man to crawl under even on a creeper, and if you need more space just use jack stands? My impression from the title of this post, was a high lift such as a lube rack in a shop, or possibly lifting up all the way so you could utilize the space underneath for something else, however, the way a T tends to drip oil, not very practical for that purpose.
I am not intending this to be critical, just puzzled as for the use?
Norm
I am not intending this to be critical, just puzzled as for the use?
Norm
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I work on Corvettes on the side.
The lift can hold the T all the way up, and I can park my C3 corvette underneath.
On a two post, checking wheels, brakes, alignment, etc. on the T is easy.
The T is on a friends 4 post right now till I get this restoration finished.
This is a 99 C5R factory race engine here right now.The lift can hold the T all the way up, and I can park my C3 corvette underneath.
On a two post, checking wheels, brakes, alignment, etc. on the T is easy.
The T is on a friends 4 post right now till I get this restoration finished.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Unless you already have a 2 post lift it wouldn’t make sense to me to have one in your shop just for T use. If you work on newer vehicles lifts are needed but not so much for Model T’s. Using a floor jack and jack stands work OK for the most of us. To each his own on this one.
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- First Name: Les
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Jeffery
Thank you for the information. I have a two post hoist which I use often. Right now it has my 67 Mercury M100 project on it(only in Canada)!!
I will pick up a pair of your suggested posts (10 ft should do nicely).
At 71 I REALLY hate crawling around on the floor!
Thank you for the information. I have a two post hoist which I use often. Right now it has my 67 Mercury M100 project on it(only in Canada)!!
I will pick up a pair of your suggested posts (10 ft should do nicely).
At 71 I REALLY hate crawling around on the floor!
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I have a two post for my other cars and with creative use of adapters to clear the running boards use it for my ‘26 RPU. I use high-lift jack stands to add stability/safety for the T pickup - nose-heavy and flexible.
If the T were my only vintage car, I would stick to a jack and regular jack stands.
If the T were my only vintage car, I would stick to a jack and regular jack stands.
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Topic author - Posts: 1554
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I have other old cars.Norman Kling wrote: ↑Wed Nov 11, 2020 10:52 amWhat is the purpose of the lift? Why not just leave it parked on the floor?
1924 Touring
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
10' is what I bought. The load was calculated for a touring. You could use 4x6, and it would clear fine, for a heavier car.Les Schubert wrote: ↑Wed Nov 11, 2020 2:02 pmJeffery
Thank you for the information. I have a two post hoist which I use often. Right now it has my 67 Mercury M100 project on it(only in Canada)!!
I will pick up a pair of your suggested posts (10 ft should do nicely).
At 71 I REALLY hate crawling around on the floor!
I bought the frame saddles for my truck, and they hold a 4x nice, but not tight.
You will find you need a small spacer under the rear to lift level. 3/4" works fine.
Just make sure the lift points are within 16" of the axles, and your golden. The math changes dramatically further away from load.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
That was my intent, but with Ruxstell levers and RM Brake rods and other widgets, I wasnt happy with pad extensions. This just works well.Chuck Regan wrote: ↑Wed Nov 11, 2020 2:16 pmI have a two post for my other cars and with creative use of adapters to clear the running boards use it for my ‘26 RPU. I use high-lift jack stands to add stability/safety for the T pickup - nose-heavy and flexible.
If the T were my only vintage car, I would stick to a jack and regular jack stands.
Also safer in quake country.
My footings are 4' deep.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
My Challenger lift has factory risers that work great on my T's. Very stable.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
IBEW? A Member?
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Member for 36 years, retired now. Operated hydro dams.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I struggled with the decision several years ago. I did ok without a lift for the T's but I purchased a 1927 Marmon. I realized that it would be difficult if not impossible to do the maintenance on the Marmon. The Marmon did not seem safe on a two post lift because of the riser that would be necessary to clear the very wide running boards to get to the frame and the weight of the car. I opted for a Benpac four post 9K extra long and extra wide lift. Very pleased and I can service all our cars and my work van and 2500 Dodge pick up. Tires and brakes are no problem because I follow front to back rotation and I lift with jacks using the movable cross members on the lift. I guess it is what ever you feel safe with. Dick C.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I decided on the four post lift because it can be moved around the shop if needed since,it,does not need to be anchored to the floor and I too was concerned about using a two post lift with my larger cars..
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I have and work on automotive hoists for 40 years we have adapters that will fit any car or truck, wood is not good to use
call me if you need adapters I just need model # of your hoist
tom leroux
714-412-3200
call me if you need adapters I just need model # of your hoist
tom leroux
714-412-3200
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Thank you very much for the suggestion to use 4x4 beams to support a Model T on the axles using a 2 post lift. Without the beams, the arms on my hoist could not reach the axels because the wheels were in the way. I did not have laminated 4x4s and I did not want to use solid ones in case there was a knot or other defect in the 4x4 that might cause it to snap. I went with 6x6s. I followed the gentleman's advice and located the front lift points under the point where the control arms attach. I added a spacer, with a keyhole cut out of it, so that the weight would rest on the axle, and also so the steering rods would not touch the beam. I added two 2-by spacers at the rear axle and a short spacer on the rear hoist arms as well to level it all out. It is so much easier working underneath with the automobile in the air. Thanks again. This Forum has been so helpful and I am making progress towards getting my unrestored 1919 Center Door Sedan on the road again.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
As I am approaching 80 yrs, I wish I had a lift. Garage height limits me. Before reading the posted information, I thought I would want a four post. After reading the above very informative discussion, I think a two post would be my preference. I work on my modern cars as well.
I initially thought this subject would turn into a best oil discussion. It didn't. Just facts. No criticism on opinions.
Art Mirtes
I initially thought this subject would turn into a best oil discussion. It didn't. Just facts. No criticism on opinions.
Art Mirtes
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Best oil? Hadacol. There is none finer, not even OILZUM!!
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Where I rent for the past five years there is a 2 post lift for my use that I have never used or needed. I suppose I like doing things the hard way. Either that or I am not old.
Vern (Vieux Carre)
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Russ T Fender wrote: ↑Wed Nov 11, 2020 4:59 pmI decided on the four post lift because it can be moved around the shop if needed since,it,does not need to be anchored to the floor and I too was concerned about using a two post lift with my larger cars..
I'm with ya there too Russ. Easy to move around if need be. The ramps aren't that much in the way to work on T's let alone moderns. I have my F150 and T bird on it all the time doing stuff, never a problem. Just feels safer, sturdier. Plus in the winter I "stack 'em", and I'd be real reluctant to do that on only a 2-poster. My opinion is all. What works for one, may not work for the other, that's okay. Makes the world go round.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
When I built my garage several years ago, I designed it to have a two post lift. Since then I have gone back and forth on 2 or 4 post. I like the stability and ability to move the 4 post, but I do a lot of wheel work like suspension and brakes and I didn't know if I wanted to deal with the ramps. Still going back and forth. Thanks for your opinions and tips. Hoping it will be my Christmas gift to myself this year.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I have a 4 post hoist with the jack that runs down the centre works great but will cost an extra 4 to 6 hundred less for you guys in the US.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
When I bought my Bendpac two post lift I ordered the extenders to use when lifting cars with high frame to ground clearance. No wood necessary. https://store.bendpak.com/tall-adapters/
Why did I decide on a two post lift? Many reasons. Removing wheels, axles, springs, ETC. that you can't do with your wheels raising your car on a four post lift. https://store.bendpak.com/car-lifts/?ca ... t_limit=24
Why did I decide on a two post lift? Many reasons. Removing wheels, axles, springs, ETC. that you can't do with your wheels raising your car on a four post lift. https://store.bendpak.com/car-lifts/?ca ... t_limit=24
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Chris, it is not that hard to pull wheels, and in the case of two different cars, I've had the complete front axle and steering gear off them while on my 4 poster. In fact, with the ramps there to use for jacking and support, I would say the 4 poster made it easier than fighting with the cars axle and wheels hanging in the air.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
You are welcome to do things the hard way. When I want to remove a front or rear axle it is far easier to do it on a two post rather than a four post. If you need to use a jack on your four post you might as well not have a lift.TWrenn wrote: ↑Fri Jul 02, 2021 6:46 pmChris, it is not that hard to pull wheels, and in the case of two different cars, I've had the complete front axle and steering gear off them while on my 4 poster. In fact, with the ramps there to use for jacking and support, I would say the 4 poster made it easier than fighting with the cars axle and wheels hanging in the air.
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
If you are concerned about scratching paint on the frame and don't want to put a few rags on it you can use these. https://store.bendpak.com/frame-cradle-pads/
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
How tall are those?Chris Haynes wrote: ↑Fri Jul 02, 2021 7:09 pmIf you are concerned about scratching paint on the frame and don't want to put a few rags on it you can use these. https://store.bendpak.com/frame-cradle-pads/
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
When installed an inch or so.big2bird wrote: ↑Sun Jul 04, 2021 10:02 pmHow tall are those?Chris Haynes wrote: ↑Fri Jul 02, 2021 7:09 pmIf you are concerned about scratching paint on the frame and don't want to put a few rags on it you can use these. https://store.bendpak.com/frame-cradle-pads/
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
I've had a 4 post WORTH chain lift for over 20 years. My new one is extra length with extra width ramps. I can raise my dually or a model T without moving the ramps. With a little ingenuity, I can also raise a golf cart or gator. I have 4 tall jack stands made for lift work. Raise the vehicle, place the stands, lower the lift some, and easily do wheel or brake work. I only needed a new lift because I sold my place with the old one and built a new shop. Cable lifts recommend changing cables every few years. Once installed, chain life never needed anything!
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Re: Model T on a 2-post lift
Huh?Chris Haynes wrote: ↑Mon Jul 05, 2021 1:47 amWhen installed an inch or so.big2bird wrote: ↑Sun Jul 04, 2021 10:02 pmHow tall are those?Chris Haynes wrote: ↑Fri Jul 02, 2021 7:09 pmIf you are concerned about scratching paint on the frame and don't want to put a few rags on it you can use these. https://store.bendpak.com/frame-cradle-pads/