2-post & 4-post Car Lift FAQs

How to install my TCE lift?

May you refer to this vedio: https://youtu.be/ZcZWZg7Mf3g

 

Where can I find manuals or warranty info for my TCE lift?

You can access Manuals and Assembly Guides at the description bottom of each product. We offer 3-Year Limited Warranty for standard models.

 

What are the installation requirements for a TCE lift?

Concrete:

  • For TCE 2-Post Lifts (under 12,000 lbs capacity): A minimum of four (4) inches of concrete at 3000 PSI is required.

  • For TCE 12,000 lbs 2-Post Lifts and Higher: A minimum of six (6) inches of concrete at 3000 PSI is required.

Power Unit: Most TCE lifts feature a specific column with a pre-welded bracket for the power unit. Ensure this column is placed on your preferred side during installation.

 

Do I need to pour thicker concrete specifically under the posts?

No. Our standard concrete thickness requirements are sufficient for the entire installation area of the lift.

 

How long should I let the concrete cure before installation?

You can install and anchor your TCE lift four (4) days after the concrete has been poured. However, you must wait at least seven (7) days for the concrete to cure before using the lift to its rated capacity.

 

What if I need to pour a new pad for my lift?

If your current floor doesn't meet requirements, the new concrete pad should be at least 4' x 4' in size and 10" thick. We recommend installing rebar into the new pour and tying it into the sides of the existing slab for maximum reinforcement.

 

What are the requirements for an outdoor concrete pad?

For an outdoor setup, your slab should be at least two feet longer and wider than the lift's footprint to ensure maximum stability. Ideally, the slab should match the dimensions of a standard garage floor.

 

My floor has a slight slope. Is this a problem?

A minimal slope (1" to 2") for drainage is common and will not affect the safety or capacity of your TCE lift.

  • 4-Post Lifts: Can be easily leveled by adjusting the lock ladder positions.

  • Shimming: Columns can be leveled using plastic or metal shims. Note: If shimming is required, ensure you use extra-length anchors to maintain proper embedment depth.

 

 

Can I install anchors if I have in-floor heating?

Yes, but you must avoid the heating pipes. If you don't have a layout diagram, try this: spray a thin layer of water on the floor and turn the heat to maximum. The water will evaporate faster over the pipes. Drill only in the areas that remain wet, as dry areas indicate a pipe underneath.

 

Can the power unit be moved to a remote location?

Yes, but extending the hydraulic hose acts as an additional reservoir, requiring more oil. 

 

How tight should the equalization cables be?

Raise the lift (do not set on locks). Try pulling cables together with one hand; they should move toward each other about 1/3 of the way. If they don't move, they are too tight; if they touch, they are too loose.

 

Can I use the overhead beam to pull engines?

No. The overhead beam is designed strictly as a conduit for hoses and cables. Using it for lifting or pulling will void the warranty and pose a safety risk. Please use a TCE engine crane instead.

 

What is the best hydraulic oil for my TCE lift?

When choosing hydraulic oil, the most common question is: "Which is better, AW32 or AW46?" The truth is, neither is "better" in terms of quality. The choice depends entirely on your shop's environment and local climate.

 

What do "AW" and the numbers mean?

  • AW stands for Anti-Wear.

  • The numbers refer to the viscosity (thickness) of the oil.

  • The lower the number, the thinner the oil and the more easily it flows at various temperatures.

 

Should I choose AW32 or AW46?

  • For Cold Climates / Unheated Garages: We recommend AW32. Its lower viscosity allows it to flow better in cold weather, ensuring smooth operation of your TCE lift during winter.

  • For Warm Climates / Heated Garages: You may use either AW32 or AW46. In consistently warm environments, the difference in performance is negligible.

 

Can I use Transmission Fluid (ATF) instead?

No. We do not recommend using transmission fluid in TCE lifts. ATF has a much lower viscosity (approximately 5W), which can cause the oil to "weep" or leak past the hydraulic cylinder seals. Additionally, the chemical composition of ATF may reduce the life expectancy of your pump seals.

 

Can I order hydraulic oil directly from TCE?

Due to shipping regulations and safety protocols, hydraulic oil cannot be shipped via standard freight. You can purchase the appropriate AW32 or AW46 oil at any local industrial supply store.

 

Does TCE offer installation services for lifts?

Sorry, We apologize, but TCE does not currently offer on-site installation services.

 

What is the voltage requirement for TCE mid-rise and low-rise lifts?

Most TCE mid-rise and low-rise lifts are equipped with a 110V power unit, allowing them to operate on standard household current for maximum convenience.

 

Does my TCE lift come with the necessary anchor bolts and hardware?

Yes. All TCE lifts ship with the required anchors for mounting the unit to a concrete floor. No separate purchase is needed for standard installation.

 

Do TCE car lifts require regular maintenance?

Yes. We suggest a monthly checklist including visual inspections of cables, hydraulic systems, and mounting bolts. Keeping your lift clean and lubricated ensures a long service life.

 

Why are my lift arms "bouncing" when moving?

This usually indicates air is trapped in the hydraulic lines. You should bleed the cylinders: raise the lift to the first lock, slightly open the Allen bleeder screws at the top of the cylinders until air stops escaping and fluid appears, then tighten.

 

How far should the baseplates be from concrete edges or relief cuts?

Maintain at least 6 inches (15cm) of clearance between the edge of the lift baseplate and any deep relief cuts or the edge of the concrete slab.