Atlas® Platinum Car Lifts

Why Choose ALI Certified Lifts?

Every Atlas® Platinum car lift in this collection carries ALI (Automotive Lift Institute) certification, which is the industry's gold standard for lift safety and quality. ALI certification means these lifts have been independently tested and verified to meet rigorous safety standards established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). When you choose an ALI certified lift, you're investing in equipment that has undergone thorough engineering evaluation and meets or exceeds national safety requirements. This certification also demonstrates compliance with OSHA guidelines, which is increasingly important for professional shops and can be a factor in insurance coverage and liability protection.

Understanding Atlas® Platinum Lift Technologies

ALLY Hydraulic Power Units

Atlas® Platinum lifts feature premium ALLY Hydraulic power units that are certified by MET Laboratories Inc. for electrical compliance in both the United States and Canada. These power units typically incorporate extra heavy-duty armatures and enhanced motor windings with increased silver metal content in the wires and connections. This advanced engineering generally creates less heat generation during operation and allows the power units to maintain more consistent torque throughout the lifting process, which can contribute to smoother operation and potentially longer service life.

Double S Column Design

Several models in the Atlas® Platinum line, including the PVL-10, utilize the proven Double S column design. This engineering approach was originally protected by patent and has been incorporated into tens of thousands of lifts worldwide over the past two decades. The Double S column configuration is favored by many technicians for its reliability and performance characteristics in above-ground lift applications.

Installation and Space Planning Considerations

Before purchasing any car lift, it's essential to carefully assess your facility requirements. Beyond the physical dimensions of the lift itself, you'll need to consider ceiling height, floor thickness and condition, electrical requirements, and adequate workspace around the lift for vehicle maneuvering. Two-post lifts generally require concrete floors with specific thickness and compression strength ratings, with requirements varying by model and capacity. Four-post lifts may have different floor requirements and often need additional consideration for the longer runway length. Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure proper anchor placement, electrical connections, and compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.

Base-Plate vs. Overhead Lift Configurations

Atlas® Platinum offers both base-plate and overhead two-post lift configurations, each with distinct advantages for different shop environments. Base-plate lifts, such as the PVL-9BP, feature an open-top design that makes them particularly well-suited for facilities with limited ceiling height. The total column height on base-plate models is typically lower than overhead designs, allowing installation in garages where ceiling clearance would otherwise be prohibitive. Overhead lifts generally provide completely unobstructed floor space beneath the vehicle and may offer advantages for certain types of undercarriage work. Your choice between these configurations should be based on your specific ceiling height, the types of vehicles you service most frequently, and the nature of the work you perform.

Open Front Four-Post Alignment Lifts

For shops performing wheel alignment services, the Atlas® Platinum line includes open front four-post alignment lifts like the PVL14OF-EXT. These specialized lifts eliminate the front crossbeam found on standard four-post lifts, providing completely unobstructed access to the front suspension and steering components. This design is particularly beneficial for shops using camera tower alignment systems, where the absence of a front beam allows proper positioning of alignment equipment. Models with extended runway lengths can accommodate the "rollback" requirement for long wheelbase vehicles during alignment procedures. The open front configuration also simplifies undercarriage inspection and service work on front-end components.

Symmetric vs. Asymmetric vs. Hybrid Lift Arms

Two-post lifts in the Atlas® Platinum series are available in different arm configurations to accommodate various vehicle types and shop workflows. Symmetric lifts position the vehicle's center of gravity between the columns, which can be ideal for trucks and vehicles with more evenly distributed weight. Some models feature adjustable or hybrid configurations that can be modified to suit different vehicle types. When selecting arm configuration, consider the makes and models you service most frequently, door clearance requirements when the vehicle is elevated, and technician access preferences for undercarriage work. Models with three-stage telescoping arms typically offer greater flexibility in positioning lift points on diverse vehicle sizes.

⚠️ Safety and Maintenance Reminders

Regular inspection and maintenance are critical for safe lift operation. ALI recommends that vehicle lifts be inspected at least annually by a qualified lift inspector. Shop owners and operators should also perform daily visual inspections before each use, checking for hydraulic leaks, unusual sounds, proper lock engagement, and any visible damage to structural components.

For four-post lifts, proper cylinder bleeding procedures should be performed immediately after installation, as specified in the manufacturer's documentation. Always consult and follow the lift inspection guide and operation manual provided with your specific model.

Technicians should be properly trained on lift operation and safety procedures before using any vehicle lift. Never exceed the rated capacity of your lift, and always ensure proper vehicle positioning and lift point placement according to manufacturer guidelines and vehicle service information.

Selecting the Right Capacity for Your Needs

Weight capacity is one of the most critical specifications when choosing a car lift. The Atlas® Platinum collection typically offers a range of capacities across various models, providing options for different vehicle types and shop applications. When determining the capacity you need, consider not just the average vehicles you service today, but also the potential for heavier vehicles in the future. Modern trucks, SUVs, and electric vehicles can be substantially heavier than older passenger cars. It's generally advisable to select a lift with capacity that exceeds your typical requirements to provide a safety margin and accommodate unexpected vehicles. Remember that lift capacity ratings assume proper vehicle positioning and load distribution—always verify that your specific vehicle and positioning will be within safe operating parameters.