Cheers,

Adam Butler
> On Mar 17, 2015, at 12:15 PM, Jeff <vw.doka@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> 
> You do not need a "beefy" two post lift.  Most run-of-the-mill lifts have a
> capacity of 9000 lbs.  Plenty for any Vanagon.
> 
> What you do want is a floor plate lift.  That way you can use the full
> height of the lift and not be limited by the overhead bar.
> 
> For Vanagons, I prefer a symmetrical lift (vehicle is centered on lift).
> 
> As for concrete, two post lifts generally require 6" of high density
> concrete (3000 psi or more).
> 
> Setting up a two post lift is pretty straightforward.  All you need is a
> good rotary hammer drill, chalk and a tape measure.  No need for a
> professional.
> 
> Hope that helps.
> 
> Cheers,
> 
> Jeff
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> Stuart MacMillan
> Sent: Tuesday, March 17, 2015 9:16 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: Shop building
> 
> Rotary is a brand: http://www.rotarylift.com/  Two post lifts need
> substantial anchor footings deep into the ground for installation (this is
> earthquake country), you don't just bolt them to a slab.  So, if you go that
> route, get the instructions for installation from the manufacturer so you
> can pour the footing before pouring the slab.
> 
> Four post lifts sit on the floor and can be moved with casters, giving you
> more garage flexibility, but somewhat poorer access to the underside.  You
> need a house jack for brake & suspension work, and a crossbar is handy for
> jacking and jack stands for supporting the end of the vehicle you are
> working on when the wheels are off.
> 
> You'd need a really beefy two post lift for the Vanagon, but a $2000 four
> poster would work just fine, and can be drop shipped to your driveway and
> assembled by two people. Two post lifts really require professional
> installation to be safe.
> 
> The older you get, the more you will appreciate a lift!  Unfortunately, I
> ran out of money just building the garage.
> 
> Stuart
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> adam butler
> Sent: Tuesday, March 17, 2015 8:42 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: Shop building
> 
> what are rotary lifts and how do I find one, are they available used?
> 
> Adam, from the list
>> On Mar 17, 2015, at 7:49 AM, Mark Dearing <vwbrain@AOL.COM> wrote:
>> 
>> I agree but get a good one, I have 2 rotary lifts that are great   later
> md
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: TJ Hemrick <x53gunner@GMAIL.COM>
>> To: vanagon <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
>> Sent: Mon, Mar 16, 2015 6:02 pm
>> Subject: Shop building
>> 
>> 
>> Karl,
>> I see your caveat on the lift "unless you plan to work under the
>> vehicle a lot." and I humbly disagree.  While we could make a list of
>> all the work you could do while the vehicle is on the ground, the
>> lions share of maintenance and trouble seems to be from the knees down
>> and wheels in IMHO.
>> After a mulitude of vehicles and car issues, a lift is *first* on my
>> list.
>> 
>> TJ
>> 
>> 
>> Date:    Mon, 16 Mar 2015 01:25:41 -0400
>> From:    Karl
>> Mullendore <tdiguru@WESTYVENTURES.COM>
>> Subject: Re: Building a Shop
>> 
>> As I
>> start filling up my 'new' 30x40x14.5' ceiling, in central Oregon, I
>> can honestly say it's the bare minimum size to work in and have
>> anything resembling a real shop filled partially w/equipment. I'm
>> putting in a 8'
>> high storage loft on one end, 4x24 overall, with office, full bath,
>> washer/dryer below. A lift isn't a big deal unless you plan to work
>> under the vehicle a lot. Good lights (I installed 6 twin-8'-tube LEDs,
>> 12K-lumens each fixture), radiant heat source (or floor), and tons of
>> outlets seem of high importance.
>> Karl
>> westyventures.com