How Do You Maintain Your Automotive Lift Accessories?

The Importance of Proper Maintenance for Garage Equipment

Automotive shops rely on lift systems to perform safe and efficient repairs. Coats Company highlights the need for consistent care and inspection of automotive lift accessories to ensure they work correctly and last longer. These accessories include lift arms, adapters, pads, locks, cables, and other supporting parts that help lifts raise and lower vehicles safely.

What Are Automotive Lift Accessories?

Common Types of Accessories

Automotive lift accessories are parts and tools that work with car lifts to make them safer and more useful. Some examples include:

• Lift arm pads

• Height adapters

• Safety locks

• Extension arms

• Hydraulic hoses

• Lift cables

Why They Matter

These accessories improve lift performance and safety. When they are in good condition, they help prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations in the workshop.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Prevent Equipment Failure

Keeping accessories in top shape reduces the risk of sudden breakdowns that could stop work or create safety hazards.

Extend the Life of Your Equipment

Routine care helps accessories and the main lift system last longer, saving money on replacements.

Meet Safety Standards

Regular inspections help ensure your shop meets industry safety rules and avoids fines or liability issues.

Increase Shop Productivity

Well-maintained tools work better and faster. This improves workflow and allows technicians to handle more jobs.

Daily Maintenance Tasks

Visual Inspections

Check lift accessories for cracks, rust, wear, or other signs of damage. Even small issues can grow into serious problems.

Clean Working Surfaces

Wipe down pads, arms, and locks to remove grease, dust, or debris that may cause slippage or damage.

Test Safety Features

Make sure safety locks and arms engage properly. Test all moving parts for smooth operation.

Secure All Fittings

Tighten bolts, nuts, and connectors as needed to keep everything secure and stable.

Weekly and Monthly Maintenance

Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply the correct type of grease or oil to hinges, joints, and arms to reduce friction and prevent wear.

Check Hydraulic Hoses and Cables

Look for leaks, cracks, or fraying. Replace worn-out hoses or cables to avoid failure during lift operations.

Inspect Lift Pads and Adapters

Pads and adapters should be free from cracks or extreme wear. Replace any that are worn or damaged to ensure proper lifting.

Measure Arm Movement

Verify that lift arms move evenly and lock into place. Uneven movement can lead to unstable lifting.

Seasonal and Annual Checks

Inspect for Rust and Corrosion

Weather changes can affect the metal parts of lift accessories. Clean and treat rusted areas to prevent damage.

Recalibrate Equipment

Have your lift and its accessories inspected and calibrated by professionals to ensure they meet factory settings.

Replace Worn-Out Components

Evaluate the condition of older accessories and replace them before they fail.

Review Safety Compliance

Make sure your equipment follows all local and national safety codes. Keep records of inspections and maintenance.

Coats Company’s Tips for Effective Maintenance

Use Manufacturer-Approved Parts

Only use accessories recommended by Coats Company or your lift’s manufacturer. This ensures proper fit and safety.

Follow a Maintenance Schedule

Set a routine maintenance calendar. Assign tasks to staff and keep a checklist for each time maintenance is done.

Train Your Team

Ensure all technicians know how to spot wear and how to maintain lift accessories properly.

Keep Spare Parts on Hand

Stock essential spare parts like pads, hoses, or safety locks. This helps you fix issues fast and avoid delays.

Signs Your Lift Accessories Need Attention

Squeaking or Grinding Noises

Noisy operation may signal dry or damaged moving parts.

Uneven Lifting

If one side of the lift rises faster than the other, the arms, cables, or locks may be worn out.

Oil Leaks

Hydraulic hoses or cylinders may be leaking and need immediate inspection.

Visual Damage

Cracks, rust, or bent parts are signs that accessories should be repaired or replaced.

Safety Risks of Ignoring Maintenance

Sudden Equipment Failure

Lift failure due to worn accessories can cause injury or damage to the vehicle.

Poor Vehicle Support

Worn pads or adapters may not hold vehicles securely, leading to slippage or tip-over.

Legal Consequences

Failing to maintain equipment can result in safety violations or lawsuits in case of an accident.

Higher Repair Costs

Neglecting small issues can lead to larger, more expensive repairs down the road.

Coats Company’s Support for Equipment Maintenance

Quality Replacement Accessories

Coats Company provides durable, high-quality lift accessories that match your equipment perfectly.

Training and Guidance

They offer detailed manuals and training materials to help shop owners and technicians care for their equipment.

Customer Support

Shops can reach out to Coats Company’s support team for help with maintenance questions, product selection, or troubleshooting.

Product Compatibility

All Coats accessories are made to work with their lifts, ensuring proper function and long-lasting performance.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your automotive lift accessories is not just about extending their life, it’s about keeping your shop safe and running smoothly. Coats Company offers trusted products and support to help you keep every part of your lift system working as it should. With regular checks, cleaning, and repairs, your team can avoid downtime, protect customers’ vehicles, and ensure safe, efficient service.

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