How Often Should A Vehicle Hoist Be Serviced?

Vehicle hoists are an essential tool in the Australian automotive industry. They are used to lift and hold vehicles during maintenance, repairs, and inspections. To ensure the safety and reliability of the hoist, regular maintenance and servicing are crucial. But how often should a vehicle hoist be serviced?

In this article, we will explore the importance of regular hoist maintenance and provide guidelines on how often you should service different types of vehicle hoists in Australia. We will also discuss the benefits of regular maintenance and the consequences of neglecting hoist servicing.

When Should I Service My Vehicle Hoist?

The frequency of servicing a vehicle hoist may vary depending on several factors such as the type of hoist, usage frequency, and workload. Generally, most hoist manufacturers recommend a regular maintenance schedule of every six months to one year or every 5,000 to 10,000 lifts. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual frequency may differ depending on the specific hoist’s design and usage. 

Vehicle hoists should be inspected, reviewed and checked each and every day by the primary user, in line with Australian and New Zealand standards AS/NZS 2550.0.1996.

Why Is Servicing A Vehicle Hoist Important?

Safety

One of the most important reasons for servicing a vehicle hoist is safety. A hoist that is not properly maintained can be dangerous and pose a risk to both the mechanic and the vehicle being lifted. Regular maintenance can help identify and fix any potential safety issues, ensuring that the hoist is safe to use.

Reliability 

A well-maintained hoist is more reliable and less likely to break down. Regular servicing can help identify any potential problems before they become major issues, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

Longevity

Regular maintenance can also help extend the lifespan of a vehicle hoist. By identifying and fixing small issues before they become major problems, you can help prevent premature wear and tear, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacement.

Efficiency

A properly maintained hoist is more efficient and can help improve productivity in the workshop. By ensuring that the hoist is functioning at its best, you can help reduce the time it takes to lift and hold a vehicle, allowing you to complete more jobs in less time.

What Should I Check When Servicing My Hoist?

2 Post Hoists

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 12 months or every 10,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check cables, nuts, bolts, hydraulic oil, and lift pads
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the lifting arms, lubricate pivot points, and replace worn-out parts
  

4 Post Hoists

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 12 months or every 10,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check cables, nuts, bolts, hydraulic oil, and lift pads
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the crossbeam, lubricate pivot points, and replace worn-out parts

Car Scissor Lifts

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 6 months or every 5,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, lift pads, and cables
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the scissor arms, replace worn-out parts, and keep the lift area clean

Truck Hoists

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 12 months or every 10,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, lift pads, cables, and winches
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the lifting arms, lubricate pivot points, and replace worn-out parts such as winch cables, chains, and hooks

Car Stackers

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 6 months or every 5,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, lift pads, and cables
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the lifting arms, lubricate pivot points, and replace worn-out parts such as hydraulic cylinders and limit switches

Single Post Hoists

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 12 months or every 10,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, lift pads, cables, and lifting arms
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the base plate and anchor bolts, lubricate pivot points, and replace worn-out parts such as hydraulic seals and hoses

Car Rotisserie

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 6 months or every 5,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, and rotating mechanism
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the frame, replace worn-out parts such as locking pins and bushings, and keep the lift area clean

Car Turntable

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 6 months or every 5,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, and rotating mechanism
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the platform, replace worn-out parts such as bearings and gears, and keep the lift area clean

Car Jacks

• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Every 6 months or every 5,000 lifts
• Maintenance Checklist: Check hydraulic oil, safety features, and lifting mechanism
• Additional Maintenance Tips: Inspect the lifting pad, replace worn-out parts such as hydraulic seals and hoses, and keep the jack clean and free of debris

In conclusion, the maintenance schedule for a vehicle hoist will depend on the type of hoist and the frequency of use. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of the equipment. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and checklist, you can prevent costly repairs and downtime. Contact AAQ for any additional questions regarding purchasing a new vehicle hoist or servicing an existing hoist.