Hi Chappy’s Garage, As an ALI Certified Lift Inspector, and Authorized Lift Installer for all the major& minor lift brands on the market, I want to thank you for this video. In this industry, I’m normally working with customers that are the DIY type of people. That being said, most of them, like yourself enjoy doing things for themselves. As do I, in my own life. A lot of times I will get a customer call and they ask for an install quote. I always give them the option to be as involved as they’d like to be (some of them are rich and want to go out of town and have me do it all 100%, they just want to stroke a check) but most of them are questioning my worth. Do they want to pick it up at the shipping hub, or do they have a trailer to do so or a way to receive it at their home? Forklift, Bobcat or tractor? Will the truck even go to their home? Do they want to source the Hydraulic Oil, or should I bring it? Remind them that they need a compressor, do they have one, are they purchasing through me or going out and buying it themself? And as with anything else, their level of involvement equates to my cost. Many times I will have people be upset with the quote they receive from me. Sticker shock. Like I’m supposed to spend my time to pick it up with my trailer, drive it to the customers location, sometimes several hours away. Unload it in the surroundings they have not cleaned up enough to have an adequate work environment, assemble it, anchor it (if desired), train them on the machine, and anwser a slew of bizarre questions, because most of these online message boards are filled with misinformation (so half the time they question my qualifications? I’ve been doing this for 10 years people lol). Then drive several hours home. And they’re offended that I’m quoting what I’m quoting. Like all of that work and expertise is only worth $150. Oh and we’ll have it installed in under 4 hours, in and out of your home before lunch. The biggest thing I tell people is this. You can do it, it’s not rocket science. But what’s your time worth? And wouldn’t you want a couple guys who’ve done a few hundred of these do your too? They’re times when things will come damaged or misaligned and the customer wouldn’t know until they’re half way through the install and now stuck. The instructions are not the best and or always up to date with manufacturing revisions. You’re not paying me for my time on your property, you’re paying me for my total time involved, and the education, and piece of mind in knowing the lift is sound and in safe working order and didn’t arrive damaged. So again, I thank you. Good video, good information, honest evaluation and you recognize the potential benefits and piece of mind that comes with having a trained professional install it as well. I hope all is well on your end and that your still enjoying your lift!
Thanks for not editing out the errors. The potential problems or complications are the biggest help in videos like this. Thanks for taking the time to film and upload.
Thanks so much for doing this! I just got mine into the garage last night, and I’m planning to start putting it together today. I already had questions, and you have answered some of them, so it’s very helpful. It’s also funny to hear something like “I did this to save money, but also because I’m a control freak.“ I think I said almost the exact same thing.
I like the fact you’re real and stuff happens and even though you tried to put your best foot forward, it’s easy to make an honest mistake and then you move on! I’ve never heard an interesting story where things were always perfect, hell, honestly thought it was me with all of your challenges! I’ll buy you a beer the next time you’re in Dallas! Cheers!
Good video. I am also erecting my BendPak 4 post solo. I'm at the point of columns up, cross tubes installed and lighter runway slotted in. Tackling the piston side later today. I would have liked to see more on the cable routing and sheave removal and install, but I will muddle thru. Thanks for this vid.
Wanted to leave another Thank You comment! I’m in Danville NH, and after watching this it gave me the boost of confidence I needed to decide to install this myself with my buddy’s help. I was looking at $800 estimates, but you just saved me all that money and time, I’m sure, after learning from your personal process. Great job!
So helpful....I'm just getting started with my one-person assembly of the 2-car, 4-post version. For your same reasons, I prefer to do my own work. Your video is extremely helpful and informative. Who knows how much time and frustration you have saved me. BendPak should pay you. You have my sincere appreciation for sharing. I couldn't wait to like and subscribe.
Thanks for this video. Bought 3 lifts back in 2017 ( 2 HD9's and one 14T) thinking that I could find someone local to install them but no go. One guy wanted $1000 per lift plus fuel and motel to come 180 miles but I'm not paying that. I worked overseas a lot and just now getting to the point of installing my first one. The part about the window size now makes sense and I see what you meant about the slack cable lock. I actually installed the ladder lock bar when the posts were laid down and it worked pretty slick. I had one engine hoist but recently bought a second one that folds and using both of them together worked well. I also used four 55 gallon metal drums and at first thought I'd put them under the runways but they worked better with 2 under each cross bar. Once I got the runways bolted to the crossbar then I used an engine hoist to lift one end at a time and removed one drum on each end and centered the remaining drum just as a safety. Got my lubricants and stuff today, greased all the sheaves and sprayed down the cables, then 90wt gear oil. After that I started cycling the lift. Actually I used the lubrication cycle as a means to purge air from the hydraulics. So far nothing major but as you mentioned, building these yourself gives you a better idea on how they work. I was concerned at first on installing the cables but it's actually easy. It took me longer than 3 days to build mine but then next one should go much faster. Big thing was not having more than 30 Amps in the shop so I reworked the shop breaker box. Builder ran #4 aluminum from the house to the shop (100 ft) underground in conduit and we calculated that the safe amps is 65 amps. Went with a 60 amp breaker in the house to supply the shop with more current and now I could (if I wanted to) run the air compressor and lift at the same time. I'll get 200 amps someday but for now just unplugging the compressor to power the lift will need to suffice. I better throttle back, this is becoming way too long. My first lift will be used as a mezzanine kinda thing to build a 8'x16' wooden deck area to put all of my wood working power tools on and other stuff scattered around the shop. Motorcycles, mower, UTV and a couple of engines will go underneath the mezz. Second lift will be used to store one car above the other. The 3rd lift probably won't get assembled this year ( I park my dually on the runways after I took that lift apart back in 2017) if I return to work overseas. My shop floor isn't as nice as yours and I'm concerned that I my need to level things. Sorry for the novel but wanted to say thanks and explain what I found. Actually came to just find out how the caster kit was built and great info there as well. Was gonna go back to the shop and work some more but considering it 0245, think I'll just go shut off the lights and work later today. Oh, I almost forgot. What did you do to get the locks to set at the same time? I'm now pretty close and adjusting cables but to get them all to set exactly at the same time is probably more than I want to mess with at this point. As long and I get closer and they all set when I lower back down then I'll call it a win. I wanted to run my hoses to the inside but have run them to the outside because of the mezzanine idea. I've already got the flex tube caught up on the tank and almost broke things. Once I get the wooden deck installed I might revisit putting the flex to the inside. Ziptied the flex to the tank for now but that's probably asking for trouble. Maybe a spring from the flex to the deck later on or a bungee cord. There's a newer manual available to download from Bendpak and they must have reviewed your video as they have corrected/updated several steps. Look for manual P/N 5900123 - Rev. M1 - March 2020. I bought my lifts so long ago that there isn't a warranty any more so I'm double checking everything. It takes some time to assemble these but pretty straight forward if a person doesn't keep getting sidetracked.
I can’t thank you enough I just started putting mine together. And you save me from quite a few pitfalls. I’m glad you told me about the different size windows I did not notice it. Also the bolt they didn’t mention At the bottom of the uprights, and the zerk fittings........ And who knows what else I’m going to keep a close eye on your video as I do it.
Excellent video. You have a great instructional voice and way you carry yourself. This is top notch compared to the bulk of the "How-To" style videos on RUclips. Subscribed.
I just finished my four post install. I also found those 4 bolts and spacers left over and figured they went in the bottom of the safety ladder. I appreciate the video and confirming.
Excellent video! Very helpful. I appreciate your safety tips. For constructive feedback, (@22:27) I would recommend avoiding sliding the cable collar bracket along the exposed piston for fear of scratching the piston leading to premature seal failure.
Hi Chappy, I just received my BendPak four post (HD-9) lift, and have begun setting it up. Your video was very helpful to me. I also want you to know, it seems several spots that tripped you up years ago have been corrected by BendPak in the installation manual - However, I still paid more attention to your video! Josh - from Vermont.
I ordered an HD9-XW and except for off-loading I assembled it by myself . . .like you. My comments are: It is much easier and safer to use an engine lift and tow strap than a floor jack to maneuver the the runways into place. Followed your video otherwise. Until I "loaded" the lift cables. It is very unclear how to go about ensuring you aren't on the "slack" cable stops. I did it by lifting the cross members off the stops as I tensioned the cables. Routing the cables was much easier once I removed all pulleys and "keeper" rollers. No question, your video sure is better than any other help out there. It gave me the confidence I could attempt it. I wouldn't hesitate to help anyone do their's.
I thought this was a comedy video the last time you had to redo it. I REALLY appreciate you leaving those moments in because it highlights how poor the directions are, how important those aspects are, and how human we all are. Your video saved me so much time. Thank you for all the effort you put in to creating it and spending time so others could save time.
I just bought a "big brother" to this lift and finding this video gives me a comfortable feeling regarding DIY assembly. If it is of interest, mine is a BendPak HDS-14X.
Good luck with your install. Hopefully it is close enough to this model my video is still useful. I assume the design is basically the same but I have not seen one of those in person.
@@ChappysGarage thank you. The design is, as you suspect, very similar just larger and heavier. Also, the height of post is under 6ft. I bought the "pneumatic/electrical workstation" and two rolling bridge jacks...
@@ChappysGarage following up, I found a shop crane to be extremely helpful in placing the runways on the heavier runways. It was also helpful to flip the as-packaged upside-down runway. As for the bolts/spacers at the bottom of the safety ladders, mine included a one page addendum to the manual (single sheet, not bound in the manual) describing their installation. Mine also included a set of redundant springs for the safeties. Assembly was smooth and relatively easy. I adjusted my safeties so the runways sit level but I set my cables so I can hear each "clack" individually in quick succession. For me, this gives audible verification each corner will engage.
Nice job. Very informative and clearly delivered. Actually takes the fear out of the DIY, for those who are mechanically capable, like yourself. Best part was seeing how you handked those large parts and the undocumented steps you discovered. Thank you. Will make my build easier when i get my bendpak.
It wouldn't be first-time DIY without a mistake! And the fact that you made a msitake (um, "mistake") shows that you are human - and a helpful, industrious human, at that. Thank you for your efforts!
@@ChappysGarage agreed, I’ll put it in the comments of my upcoming review… only thing I’m stuck on now is, getting the hydraulic to move. It went out but doesn’t seem like it wants to go back in.
Great job... I 100% agree with your "I'll do it myself" philosophy....... Thanx especially for showing the "learning opprotunities", especially where the instructions are unclear...
Thanks for the video. I spent a few hours today installing the structure of an HD-9 with a buddy. As you mentioned, the instructions omitted a lot of important detail. You did a great job filling those in. I plan to tackle the cables, lines and power unit tomorrow. Again, thanks for the video
I did this by myself also, but I used a cherry picker to lift the long ramps. The balance point is about 6 inches from the center for the one with the ram in it. Thanks for the video, definitely helped make my installation easier.
Thanks Chappy! I’ve been putting up a clone of the BendPak this weekend & I’ve gone back to refer to your video at least 4 times (and I’m not quite done). :)
Thank you. The page with the hydraulic and air ports really confused me. They used hydraulic and airline interchangeably and it didn’t make sense and you solved that.
Thank you for taking the time to post this. You covered all the same questions I encountered and therefore did not finish the install today. 80% completed today, the rest hopefully this week. Thanks again!
Glad you found it helpful. I have a couple more videos about the lift and will probably do more in the future so don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss them!
Glad you like it! If you want to see more subscribe to my channel, I have a few other videos about the lift as well as several other workshop and automotive videos.
Thanks for showing how it's done. I don't have a trailer or a forklift. Perhaps, I'll pay Bend-Pak to install mine. At least, your video shows what I will be paying for. Thanks again.
I might be late to the comment party but I just wanted to add my appreciation for the effort you took to produce this video. Along with a couple of friends, I assembled a Bendpak 7w in my home garage in late October. I watched your video a couple of times in advance of taking delivery of the unit and with the manual (vague at times in some places) we had the lift up and running within 5hrs of unloading, the garage pretty much cleaned up and the car on the lift before bedtime the same day (LOL). Thanks Chappy!
I have one of these lifts that I need to move to a different garage. I was going to spend $600 to have some guys do it for me but after watching your video I decided to do it myself. Thanks for the info. BTW, it's much easier with two people, only a few hours to complete the job.
Great video. Saved me hours. I just installed my HD-7 and your video along with what BendPak calls ‘instructions’ made the process very simple. Still took a few days but I did it by myself as well. Best of luck with your lift.
Great video, excellent details, especially helping us with tips and advise where the manual would fail. I appreciate the information as I am planning to get one in the near future. Cheers.
Thank you for making this video, i am trading some sign work to a company for one of these 4 post lifts and my lift is in service now so much of the assembly like locks and things are already done i just have to take it apart and then reassembe it at my shop when i get his signs finished . So anyhow thanks for making this video and good luck on all your projects . That sure is one nice lift : ). Love your dog too : )
This is an excellent video. I’m glad you didn’t edit out the mistakes at the start. I’m also looking at installing this hoist. I’m in Australia and the Molnar seems to be the one to go for if you’re wanting quality over price. After quite a bit of research, there are a lot of positives about the Bendpak which we can get here. I don’t know if you’ve seen or used the air jacks that go between the runway platforms? I saw one RUclips video and when the vehicle was jacked up, the extension arms had quite a noticeable bend in them. The model one I was looking at is an RJ-45 which fits the HD-9 hoist. I feel they would be very handy but at $1700 aud each I would want them to be good. I guess you would expect it to bend a bit if it’s a larger heavy vehicle and the arms are extended a long way. I’d appreciate any comments from you or people that may have used them. Thanks again for taking the time to make and post this videoCheers, Pete
Glad you liked it! That RJ-45 looks handy but yeah, seems overpriced. Had not seen them bend but have not looked closely. What I do have is the jack platform that fits between the rails that you can put a couple bottle jacks on it. Honestly not really happy with it either but it works. The best thing that I use when I need to take the weight off the suspension is some tall floor supports I got from Harbor Freight (which I assume they don't have down under but I assume you have a similar store?). I should probably do a video on that stuff.
Chappy's Garage Thank you for your reply. I think I get what you mean. You hoist the vehicle up, place the floor supports between the garage floor and the axle and then let the hoist down enough so the axle is resting on the floor supports and the wheels are just off the platforms. Yes that would work ok. They are fairly expensive especially since I was going to buy two. They are $1700 in Australia but still a lot cheaper than the Molnar brand which I was told are around $3000 each. I was up for $8000 for the Molnar hoist and $6000 for the two scissor jacks. They advertise that they are made in Australia but they aren't any more. Just like a lot of businesses in the US, they end up overseas. Most reviews and videos I've seen, like yours, say positive things about the Bendpak. I appreciate you going to the trouble of making the videos. I'll keep a look out for new ones Cheers Peter
It's always fun putting adult toys together, sorry you made mistakes, but you hopefully helped us not make the same ones, great video. thanks for posting.
Awesome video! It was instrumental in my assembly over the last couple of days. I bought mine gently used (about 2 years old) and it didn't come with the spacers for the ladders, but I'm sure I can get some nylon bushings/spacers from my local hardware superstore. Thanks again for taking the time to do this!
Glad it was useful! I wonder how critical those spacers are since it wasn't mentioned in the manual.... I suspect that is something they added later on. It does seem like a very good idea to have them since it keeps the ladders in line preventing them from snagging and catching when you try to lower the vehicle (which could be VERY bad if one of the 4 catches and the car tries to come down crooked!). Don't forget to subscribe to the channel, I will probably do some other videos about the lift and other useful workshop stuff in the future.
I'm definitely with you on that one. Any chance you know how thick the ones you got with yours were? I'm guessing about half an inch? It seems if they're that important, they would surely add that to their manual... Strange though. And I did just subscribe.
I realize why mine didn't have them. I guess my version was the one prior to yours and did not use them. I compared the parts listing for the current version to my original instructions, and they're not listed. Also, there are no holes in the back of the column to bolt them through. After re-thinking this, I could add them, but also, the teflon pads on the cross bars help keep the ladder from moving out, at least on my version. I'd still like to get the size once you have it, and also a measurement of how high off the ground the holes are, and approximate hole size. Thanks again!!
Video is very helpful. Just installed the BendPak HD-9XW. Having problem with the power side runway flexing when I have my SUV (about 6000 lb) drive on it. Flexing causes the bottom of the runway flange to open up. This results in the cylinder flange arm assembly dropping off and falling below the flange. The runways seems flimsy and flexing. There is about 3/4" bigger dimension at the spot the rear wheels sit vs at the bracket holding the front end of the cylinder. Have you encountered similar problems?
Benpak design it's own moveable wheels, that's so freaking slap ass perfect, plus your 4 posts has it's own drive way, and then if a car collectors were to leave in the lifted position all the up, no idiot can't even think about it, that's perfection,
Great Video, thank you. Followed your lead, installed the high pressure hydraulic line backwards, elbow at the power unit rather than the cylinder. Works fine, will I ever reverse it, hope not. Instructions in general could be much better if not the printed an online pdf with "pictures," when that technology becomes available, would really clear things up. BendPak brother would you spare a dime and include extra ferrules and some zerk fitting caps?
Great Video! I heard the manual was confusing and directed for the professional installers, not so much for the end-user. I'm installing mine this week. I'll definitely refer back to your video for my single man install!
thanks for the video. Question for you if you don’t mind. How high is the top your tacoma vehicle after it is lifted ? The reason I asked is because I’m getting ready to build a house and I am going to put a lift like yours in the third stall and I don’t know what I need for a ceiling height. if your stilling answering people’s questions, thanks in advance.
Forgot to mention . . . . It is possible to install the air push button (they ship now) backwards. It will blow a lot of air out the stem of the push button. Flip it 180 and everything is "HAPPY".
Watching this while studying the manual- only thing I’m a little stumped on is running the hydraulic line/air lines- the directions aren’t really the best- but I’ll figure it out- home stretch also day 3
Excellent video. I was wondering how it'd work to lay the uprights on the floor and put the crossbeam in place and then erect the columns vs how they describe it with needing a forklift or crane. That just sounded more unsafe trying to line things up over 100" uprights. I got mine ordered and will be mostly doing installation solo also.
I did mine by laying the columns on the floor as you suggested. It worked great. The columns themselves are not heavy so once the crossbeam is all the way at the bottom you can stand it up easily. I am really surprised they don't do it that way in the manual.
@@ChappysGarage if you had to estimate total solo assembly time even with the 'screw-ups' and triple checking, excluding the pickup and unloading parts, how many hours you think it took to be at 100% by yourself?
@@kevingebert4316 When I did it I think I spent most of 3 days on it but a lot of time is taken up by camera work. Given what I know now I feel I could do it in a long day. Several things would be much faster with a helper if you have another pair of hands to help.
I want one but man that is a LOT of work. Not sure I have the time... nor do I have a tractor sitting around. It would be nice if they had a dealer network that could deliver and install...
I know I am little late on my comments, but I can't seem to find an answer to my question: are the tire runners movable side to side so that you can adjust the spacing to accommodate narrower or wider track width vehicles? Great video and I also appreciate your honesty and mistakes. Nobody is perfect and your willingness to share those mistakes will help others avoid them.
On mine the pulleys were not already installed but I do recall something in the instructions that you might need to remove them. There is a set screw that holds the pulley shaft in place, losen that, pull the shaft out and the pulleys should slide right out. I don't think you will be able to route the cables with the pulleys in place also.
Glad you liked it. I know what you mean about headroom. I wanted a lift in my old garage but just didn't have the vertical space for it. I have a couple other videos related to the lift and will likely do more in the future. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss them! Hopefully some other videos you will like as well.
Great video! Very helpful. I'll have to research the fact that you needed an air line towards the end. Wondering if that is an ongoing need? I was assuming it was all motor driven. Thanks.
The air line is what releases the safety locks and I believe they have not changed that design (actually works very well). I do think they have an optional compressor that mounts onto the lift for this to make it self contained. Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful.
I just purchased a lift. As I was reading the instructions during the installation process I realized (multiple times) the provided instructions are badly written. I set this up solo as you did, and I appreciate your video! It helped tremendously! I currently have it operational, but adjusting the safety ladders is still baffling me based off of the instructions. Can you post a video on it please?
@@FSTMRFR For what it's worth, this seems to be tied to the nuts at the top of the ladders. I'd start at 13:00 and then adjust accordingly. Hope that helps!
great video but wish you would have shown a bit more on the wiring up at the pump, connections, etc. That is a big of a question still in my mind. Thanks!
I don't recall the details (been over a year now since I did this install) but I don't recall it being too difficult. However I STRONGLY suggest if you are uncomfortable wiring it up you hire an electrician to do it!
Total cost was under $3000. It took me 3 full days to install but would have been much quicker if I wasn't filming.... also would be MUCH quicker if I had something like this video to go by to help me out! I suspect most people could do it in a day easily after watching this video, certainly if you have someone to help with the heavy parts.
What size bolts, nuts and spacers are the ones that go on the bottom of the safety ladders. Mine didn’t come with those and I need to pick some up. The slotted holes at the bottom in each of the posts. The ones you mentioned you missed.
4 years later and it's still a great video. Thanks!
Hi Chappy’s Garage, As an ALI Certified Lift Inspector, and Authorized Lift Installer for all the major& minor lift brands on the market, I want to thank you for this video. In this industry, I’m normally working with customers that are the DIY type of people. That being said, most of them, like yourself enjoy doing things for themselves. As do I, in my own life. A lot of times I will get a customer call and they ask for an install quote. I always give them the option to be as involved as they’d like to be (some of them are rich and want to go out of town and have me do it all 100%, they just want to stroke a check) but most of them are questioning my worth. Do they want to pick it up at the shipping hub, or do they have a trailer to do so or a way to receive it at their home? Forklift, Bobcat or tractor? Will the truck even go to their home? Do they want to source the Hydraulic Oil, or should I bring it? Remind them that they need a compressor, do they have one, are they purchasing through me or going out and buying it themself? And as with anything else, their level of involvement equates to my cost. Many times I will have people be upset with the quote they receive from me. Sticker shock. Like I’m supposed to spend my time to pick it up with my trailer, drive it to the customers location, sometimes several hours away. Unload it in the surroundings they have not cleaned up enough to have an adequate work environment, assemble it, anchor it (if desired), train them on the machine, and anwser a slew of bizarre questions, because most of these online message boards are filled with misinformation (so half the time they question my qualifications? I’ve been doing this for 10 years people lol). Then drive several hours home. And they’re offended that I’m quoting what I’m quoting. Like all of that work and expertise is only worth $150. Oh and we’ll have it installed in under 4 hours, in and out of your home before lunch. The biggest thing I tell people is this. You can do it, it’s not rocket science. But what’s your time worth? And wouldn’t you want a couple guys who’ve done a few hundred of these do your too? They’re times when things will come damaged or misaligned and the customer wouldn’t know until they’re half way through the install and now stuck. The instructions are not the best and or always up to date with manufacturing revisions. You’re not paying me for my time on your property, you’re paying me for my total time involved, and the education, and piece of mind in knowing the lift is sound and in safe working order and didn’t arrive damaged. So again, I thank you. Good video, good information, honest evaluation and you recognize the potential benefits and piece of mind that comes with having a trained professional install it as well. I hope all is well on your end and that your still enjoying your lift!
Thank you very much for the video! Mine is sitting in the garage waiting for me - and your video removed my anxiety! Great job w/ the video!
I love that you show your human and we all screw up from time to time.
Thanks for not editing out the errors. The potential problems or complications are the biggest help in videos like this. Thanks for taking the time to film and upload.
I try to show it how it is! Thanks for watching.
Thanks so much for doing this! I just got mine into the garage last night, and I’m planning to start putting it together today. I already had questions, and you have answered some of them, so it’s very helpful. It’s also funny to hear something like “I did this to save money, but also because I’m a control freak.“ I think I said almost the exact same thing.
Good luck with your install. Hope this was useful.
I like the fact you’re real and stuff happens and even though you tried to put your best foot forward, it’s easy to make an honest mistake and then you move on! I’ve never heard an interesting story where things were always perfect, hell, honestly thought it was me with all of your challenges! I’ll buy you a beer the next time you’re in Dallas! Cheers!
Thanks so much for the video! I have a Bendpak 4 post lift coming soon. This will certainly help with my son and myself doing the install.
This is one of the best how to videos I've seen. Excellent job !! Thank you !!
Good video. I am also erecting my BendPak 4 post solo. I'm at the point of columns up, cross tubes installed and lighter runway slotted in. Tackling the piston side later today. I would have liked to see more on the cable routing and sheave removal and install, but I will muddle thru. Thanks for this vid.
Watched your video 40 times when I installed mine. Thanks for posting. Really helped me!
Wanted to leave another Thank You comment! I’m in Danville NH, and after watching this it gave me the boost of confidence I needed to decide to install this myself with my buddy’s help. I was looking at $800 estimates, but you just saved me all that money and time, I’m sure, after learning from your personal process.
Great job!
Glad it helped! Enjoy your new lift.
So helpful....I'm just getting started with my one-person assembly of the 2-car, 4-post version. For your same reasons, I prefer to do my own work. Your video is extremely helpful and informative. Who knows how much time and frustration you have saved me. BendPak should pay you. You have my sincere appreciation for sharing. I couldn't wait to like and subscribe.
Thanks for this video. Bought 3 lifts back in 2017 ( 2 HD9's and one 14T) thinking that I could find someone local to install them but no go. One guy wanted $1000 per lift plus fuel and motel to come 180 miles but I'm not paying that. I worked overseas a lot and just now getting to the point of installing my first one. The part about the window size now makes sense and I see what you meant about the slack cable lock. I actually installed the ladder lock bar when the posts were laid down and it worked pretty slick. I had one engine hoist but recently bought a second one that folds and using both of them together worked well. I also used four 55 gallon metal drums and at first thought I'd put them under the runways but they worked better with 2 under each cross bar. Once I got the runways bolted to the crossbar then I used an engine hoist to lift one end at a time and removed one drum on each end and centered the remaining drum just as a safety. Got my lubricants and stuff today, greased all the sheaves and sprayed down the cables, then 90wt gear oil. After that I started cycling the lift. Actually I used the lubrication cycle as a means to purge air from the hydraulics. So far nothing major but as you mentioned, building these yourself gives you a better idea on how they work. I was concerned at first on installing the cables but it's actually easy. It took me longer than 3 days to build mine but then next one should go much faster. Big thing was not having more than 30 Amps in the shop so I reworked the shop breaker box. Builder ran #4 aluminum from the house to the shop (100 ft) underground in conduit and we calculated that the safe amps is 65 amps. Went with a 60 amp breaker in the house to supply the shop with more current and now I could (if I wanted to) run the air compressor and lift at the same time. I'll get 200 amps someday but for now just unplugging the compressor to power the lift will need to suffice. I better throttle back, this is becoming way too long.
My first lift will be used as a mezzanine kinda thing to build a 8'x16' wooden deck area to put all of my wood working power tools on and other stuff scattered around the shop. Motorcycles, mower, UTV and a couple of engines will go underneath the mezz. Second lift will be used to store one car above the other. The 3rd lift probably won't get assembled this year ( I park my dually on the runways after I took that lift apart back in 2017) if I return to work overseas. My shop floor isn't as nice as yours and I'm concerned that I my need to level things. Sorry for the novel but wanted to say thanks and explain what I found. Actually came to just find out how the caster kit was built and great info there as well. Was gonna go back to the shop and work some more but considering it 0245, think I'll just go shut off the lights and work later today. Oh, I almost forgot. What did you do to get the locks to set at the same time? I'm now pretty close and adjusting cables but to get them all to set exactly at the same time is probably more than I want to mess with at this point. As long and I get closer and they all set when I lower back down then I'll call it a win.
I wanted to run my hoses to the inside but have run them to the outside because of the mezzanine idea. I've already got the flex tube caught up on the tank and almost broke things. Once I get the wooden deck installed I might revisit putting the flex to the inside. Ziptied the flex to the tank for now but that's probably asking for trouble. Maybe a spring from the flex to the deck later on or a bungee cord.
There's a newer manual available to download from Bendpak and they must have reviewed your video as they have corrected/updated several steps. Look for manual P/N 5900123 - Rev. M1 - March 2020. I bought my lifts so long ago that there isn't a warranty any more so I'm double checking everything. It takes some time to assemble these but pretty straight forward if a person doesn't keep getting sidetracked.
Great video, thanks for sharing. Your discription of the project is about to save my son and I a lot of headache.
I can’t thank you enough I just started putting mine together. And you save me from quite a few pitfalls. I’m glad you told me about the different size windows I did not notice it. Also the bolt they didn’t mention At the bottom of the uprights, and the zerk fittings........ And who knows what else I’m going to keep a close eye on your video as I do it.
Excellent video. You have a great instructional voice and way you carry yourself. This is top notch compared to the bulk of the "How-To" style videos on RUclips. Subscribed.
I appreciate the positive comment! I hope to be able to keep it up. I enjoy doing it.
I just finished my four post install. I also found those 4 bolts and spacers left over and figured they went in the bottom of the safety ladder. I appreciate the video and confirming.
Glad I can help. Hopefully you can use the lift to make Finnegan even faster! :)
Excellent video! Very helpful. I appreciate your safety tips. For constructive feedback, (@22:27) I would recommend avoiding sliding the cable collar bracket along the exposed piston for fear of scratching the piston leading to premature seal failure.
Hi Chappy, I just received my BendPak four post (HD-9) lift, and have begun setting it up. Your video was very helpful to me. I also want you to know, it seems several spots that tripped you up years ago have been corrected by BendPak in the installation manual - However, I still paid more attention to your video! Josh - from Vermont.
I ordered an HD9-XW and except for off-loading I assembled it by myself . . .like you. My comments are: It is much easier and safer to use an engine lift and tow strap than a floor jack to maneuver the the runways into place. Followed your video otherwise. Until I "loaded" the lift cables. It is very unclear how to go about ensuring you aren't on the "slack" cable stops. I did it by lifting the cross members off the stops as I tensioned the cables. Routing the cables was much easier once I removed all pulleys and "keeper" rollers. No question, your video sure is better than any other help out there. It gave me the confidence I could attempt it. I wouldn't hesitate to help anyone do their's.
I thought this was a comedy video the last time you had to redo it. I REALLY appreciate you leaving those moments in because it highlights how poor the directions are, how important those aspects are, and how human we all are. Your video saved me so much time. Thank you for all the effort you put in to creating it and spending time so others could save time.
I just bought a "big brother" to this lift and finding this video gives me a comfortable feeling regarding DIY assembly. If it is of interest, mine is a BendPak HDS-14X.
Good luck with your install. Hopefully it is close enough to this model my video is still useful. I assume the design is basically the same but I have not seen one of those in person.
@@ChappysGarage thank you. The design is, as you suspect, very similar just larger and heavier. Also, the height of post is under 6ft. I bought the "pneumatic/electrical workstation" and two rolling bridge jacks...
@@ChappysGarage following up, I found a shop crane to be extremely helpful in placing the runways on the heavier runways. It was also helpful to flip the as-packaged upside-down runway. As for the bolts/spacers at the bottom of the safety ladders, mine included a one page addendum to the manual (single sheet, not bound in the manual) describing their installation. Mine also included a set of redundant springs for the safeties. Assembly was smooth and relatively easy. I adjusted my safeties so the runways sit level but I set my cables so I can hear each "clack" individually in quick succession. For me, this gives audible verification each corner will engage.
Nice job. Very informative and clearly delivered. Actually takes the fear out of the DIY, for those who are mechanically capable, like yourself. Best part was seeing how you handked those large parts and the undocumented steps you discovered. Thank you. Will make my build easier when i get my bendpak.
Subscribed
Glad it is useful! I appreciate the feedback.
It wouldn't be first-time DIY without a mistake! And the fact that you made a msitake (um, "mistake") shows that you are human - and a helpful, industrious human, at that. Thank you for your efforts!
Exactly, wanted to show it how it is! Glad you enjoyed the video.
Thanks for the great video. I was unsure where I wanted to put my Bendpak but now I know I can easily relocate it.
Hey man, this video saved my behind on multiple occasions. I’m case you were wondering, BendPak’s instructions still suck…
Glad to hear it was useful. I think Bendpak needs to throw out the directions and just point people at my video.
@@ChappysGarage agreed, I’ll put it in the comments of my upcoming review… only thing I’m stuck on now is, getting the hydraulic to move. It went out but doesn’t seem like it wants to go back in.
Great job... I 100% agree with your "I'll do it myself" philosophy....... Thanx especially for showing the "learning opprotunities", especially where the instructions are unclear...
Glad you liked it!
Thanks for the video. I spent a few hours today installing the structure of an HD-9 with a buddy. As you mentioned, the instructions omitted a lot of important detail. You did a great job filling those in. I plan to tackle the cables, lines and power unit tomorrow. Again, thanks for the video
Glad it was helpful. Good luck with the rest of your lift install.
Congrats on your new lift. Kudos to your willingness to do it all on your own.
I did this by myself also, but I used a cherry picker to lift the long ramps. The balance point is about 6 inches from the center for the one with the ram in it. Thanks for the video, definitely helped make my installation easier.
Thanks Chappy! I’ve been putting up a clone of the BendPak this weekend & I’ve gone back to refer to your video at least 4 times (and I’m not quite done). :)
Picking up one of these myself I a few days, and like you, I'm a loner. THANK YOU!!!
Nice, good luck with the install. Hopefully having seen the video helps it go smoothly.
Thank you. The page with the hydraulic and air ports really confused me. They used hydraulic and airline interchangeably and it didn’t make sense and you solved that.
Thank you for taking the time to post this. You covered all the same questions I encountered and therefore did not finish the install today. 80% completed today, the rest hopefully this week. Thanks again!
Glad you found it helpful. I have a couple more videos about the lift and will probably do more in the future so don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss them!
Excellent video. Very much appreciate the fact that you wear a mic for clean audio.
Glad you like it! If you want to see more subscribe to my channel, I have a few other videos about the lift as well as several other workshop and automotive videos.
Thanks for showing how it's done. I don't have a trailer or a forklift. Perhaps, I'll pay Bend-Pak to install mine. At least, your video shows what I will be paying for. Thanks again.
I am installing this exact same lift, you saved me so much time on the install! BRAVO!!! Great video!!!
Always great to hear when my videos are used. Enjoy your new lift and thanks for watching!
I might be late to the comment party but I just wanted to add my appreciation for the effort you took to produce this video. Along with a couple of friends, I assembled a Bendpak 7w in my home garage in late October. I watched your video a couple of times in advance of taking delivery of the unit and with the manual (vague at times in some places) we had the lift up and running within 5hrs of unloading, the garage pretty much cleaned up and the car on the lift before bedtime the same day (LOL). Thanks Chappy!
Always great to hear this has been helpful!
I have one of these lifts that I need to move to a different garage. I was going to spend $600 to have some guys do it for me but after watching your video I decided to do it myself. Thanks for the info. BTW, it's much easier with two people, only a few hours to complete the job.
Great video. Saved me hours. I just installed my HD-7 and your video along with what BendPak calls ‘instructions’ made the process very simple. Still took a few days but I did it by myself as well. Best of luck with your lift.
+somoss0117 glad it was helpful. Enjoy your lift, mine has made things much easier for me.
Thank YOU!!!! You helped me. The video was absolutely perfect. Great pointers and help understanding the included directions.
Awesome job on the video, thanks for posting, I'll be doing this probably this summer for one of my wife's cars.
Great video, excellent details, especially helping us with tips and advise where the manual would fail. I appreciate the information as I am planning to get one in the near future. Cheers.
Great video! Im going to order mine this week, will be watching this several times!
Video is great. Most difficult area left is the actual "threading of the cables. easiest if all pulleys and keepers are removed.
Thanks, if have this job to do and I know BendPak is weak on the documentation. Sharing what went wrong is soooo valuable!
Thanks for making the video. I appreciate the honesty and details.
After watching you with the crossbars I have decided we must be long lost relatives because we have the same luck. 😂
Great job. Thanks for posting your install. You saved people alot of frustration.
Thank you for making this video, i am trading some sign work to a company for one of these 4 post lifts and my lift is in service now so much of the assembly like locks and things are already done i just have to take it apart and then reassembe it at my shop when i get his signs finished . So anyhow thanks for making this video and good luck on all your projects . That sure is one nice lift : ). Love your dog too : )
This is an excellent video. I’m glad you didn’t edit out the mistakes at the start. I’m also looking at installing this hoist. I’m in Australia and the Molnar seems to be the one to go for if you’re wanting quality over price. After quite a bit of research, there are a lot of positives about the Bendpak which we can get here. I don’t know if you’ve seen or used the air jacks that go between the runway platforms? I saw one RUclips video and when the vehicle was jacked up, the extension arms had quite a noticeable bend in them. The model one I was looking at is an RJ-45 which fits the HD-9 hoist. I feel they would be very handy but at $1700 aud each I would want them to be good. I guess you would expect it to bend a bit if it’s a larger heavy vehicle and the arms are extended a long way. I’d appreciate any comments from you or people that may have used them. Thanks again for taking the time to make and post this videoCheers, Pete
Glad you liked it! That RJ-45 looks handy but yeah, seems overpriced. Had not seen them bend but have not looked closely. What I do have is the jack platform that fits between the rails that you can put a couple bottle jacks on it. Honestly not really happy with it either but it works. The best thing that I use when I need to take the weight off the suspension is some tall floor supports I got from Harbor Freight (which I assume they don't have down under but I assume you have a similar store?). I should probably do a video on that stuff.
Chappy's Garage Thank you for your reply. I think I get what you mean. You hoist the vehicle up, place the floor supports between the garage floor and the axle and then let the hoist down enough so the axle is resting on the floor supports and the wheels are just off the platforms. Yes that would work ok. They are fairly expensive especially since I was going to buy two. They are $1700 in Australia but still a lot cheaper than the Molnar brand which I was told are around $3000 each. I was up for $8000 for the Molnar hoist and $6000 for the two scissor jacks. They advertise that they are made in Australia but they aren't any more. Just like a lot of businesses in the US, they end up overseas. Most reviews and videos I've seen, like yours, say positive things about the Bendpak. I appreciate you going to the trouble of making the videos. I'll keep a look out for new ones
Cheers Peter
Thanks for posting, this and a few other videos will come in handy when I put my BP HD-9XW together in the next week.
It's always fun putting adult toys together, sorry you made mistakes, but you hopefully helped us not make the same ones, great video. thanks for posting.
That was my goal, hope it helps!
Wow Kudos in doing the whole build by yourself!!
Awesome video! It was instrumental in my assembly over the last couple of days. I bought mine gently used (about 2 years old) and it didn't come with the spacers for the ladders, but I'm sure I can get some nylon bushings/spacers from my local hardware superstore. Thanks again for taking the time to do this!
Glad it was useful! I wonder how critical those spacers are since it wasn't mentioned in the manual.... I suspect that is something they added later on. It does seem like a very good idea to have them since it keeps the ladders in line preventing them from snagging and catching when you try to lower the vehicle (which could be VERY bad if one of the 4 catches and the car tries to come down crooked!).
Don't forget to subscribe to the channel, I will probably do some other videos about the lift and other useful workshop stuff in the future.
I'm definitely with you on that one. Any chance you know how thick the ones you got with yours were? I'm guessing about half an inch? It seems if they're that important, they would surely add that to their manual... Strange though. And I did just subscribe.
1/2 inch sounds about right but I will measure mine tomorrow.
Thanks!
I realize why mine didn't have them. I guess my version was the one prior to yours and did not use them. I compared the parts listing for the current version to my original instructions, and they're not listed. Also, there are no holes in the back of the column to bolt them through. After re-thinking this, I could add them, but also, the teflon pads on the cross bars help keep the ladder from moving out, at least on my version. I'd still like to get the size once you have it, and also a measurement of how high off the ground the holes are, and approximate hole size. Thanks again!!
Thumbs up for control freak. Yep hands off here too!
Great job, my future project when I get my 2nd Porsche.
Video is very helpful. Just installed the BendPak HD-9XW. Having problem with the power side runway flexing when I have my SUV (about 6000 lb) drive on it. Flexing causes the bottom of the runway flange to open up. This results in the cylinder flange arm assembly dropping off and falling below the flange. The runways seems flimsy and flexing. There is about 3/4" bigger dimension at the spot the rear wheels sit vs at the bracket holding the front end of the cylinder.
Have you encountered similar problems?
Great job, awesome video and very helpful for those whom are looking.
Great video
Great video you are a super instructor , Harry
Benpak design it's own moveable wheels, that's so freaking slap ass perfect, plus your 4 posts has it's own drive way, and then if a car collectors were to leave in the lifted position all the up, no idiot can't even think about it, that's perfection,
Great job. Used this video to guide me in my install this past weekend.
Awesome, glad it was helpful! Enjoy your new lift.
I just ordered this same lift, and pumped to install it
Just got my shop floor poured, watching this video yet again in preparation for building mine.
Good luck with the install!
Thank for doing this video. We appreciate.
Bendpak needs to get their shit together on the instructions. Thanks for excellent video
Great Video, thank you. Followed your lead, installed the high pressure hydraulic line backwards, elbow at the power unit rather than the cylinder. Works fine, will I ever reverse it, hope not. Instructions in general could be much better if not the printed an online pdf with "pictures," when that technology becomes available, would really clear things up. BendPak brother would you spare a dime and include extra ferrules and some zerk fitting caps?
Really enjoyed watching this. Great job and thank you for taking the time to put the video together, i think I’m about ready to order mine now :)
Great Video! I heard the manual was confusing and directed for the professional installers, not so much for the end-user. I'm installing mine this week. I'll definitely refer back to your video for my single man install!
thanks for the video. Question for you if you don’t mind. How high is the top your tacoma vehicle after it is lifted ?
The reason I asked is because I’m getting ready to build a house and I am going to put a lift like yours in the third stall and I don’t know what I need for a ceiling height. if your stilling answering people’s questions, thanks in advance.
Forgot to mention . . . . It is possible to install the air push button (they ship now) backwards. It will blow a lot of air out the stem of the push button. Flip it 180 and everything is "HAPPY".
Excellent video, great info.
I really appreciated this video! I’m looking at this very lift and your video definitely helped! Thanks again for taking the time.
Glad you liked it! If you have not already, please subscribe to my channel so you don't miss future videos.
Watching this while studying the manual- only thing I’m a little stumped on is running the hydraulic line/air lines- the directions aren’t really the best- but I’ll figure it out- home stretch also day 3
Great video! I'm about to assemble a similar unit and your video should help a lot!
It’s cool that ya show mistakes along the way.
Thanks for taking the time! Great video.
This was a really great video! Thank you sir!
Excellent video. Could you please tell me why you chose the BendPak over the Backyard Buddy or another lift? Warm regards, Doron
Great video, thank you sir!
Just about to install mine, good tip on the crossbars!
Thanks for watching. Good luck with your install.
Great video. Thanks for taking the time to share with us!
Great video. Half way through a 14k.
A must have for working on any Subaru.
good job man im installing one as well
Excellent video. I was wondering how it'd work to lay the uprights on the floor and put the crossbeam in place and then erect the columns vs how they describe it with needing a forklift or crane. That just sounded more unsafe trying to line things up over 100" uprights. I got mine ordered and will be mostly doing installation solo also.
I did mine by laying the columns on the floor as you suggested. It worked great. The columns themselves are not heavy so once the crossbeam is all the way at the bottom you can stand it up easily. I am really surprised they don't do it that way in the manual.
@@ChappysGarage if you had to estimate total solo assembly time even with the 'screw-ups' and triple checking, excluding the pickup and unloading parts, how many hours you think it took to be at 100% by yourself?
@@kevingebert4316 When I did it I think I spent most of 3 days on it but a lot of time is taken up by camera work. Given what I know now I feel I could do it in a long day. Several things would be much faster with a helper if you have another pair of hands to help.
I want one but man that is a LOT of work. Not sure I have the time... nor do I have a tractor sitting around. It would be nice if they had a dealer network that could deliver and install...
I know I am little late on my comments, but I can't seem to find an answer to my question: are the tire runners movable side to side so that you can adjust the spacing to accommodate narrower or wider track width vehicles? Great video and I also appreciate your honesty and mistakes. Nobody is perfect and your willingness to share those mistakes will help others avoid them.
Yes, the ramps have 2 positions they can be put in for narrow or wide vehicles.
Great informative video. thx for posting
We can’t get the hydraulic runway to fall into place. The pulleys are holding it off. Any suggestions?
On mine the pulleys were not already installed but I do recall something in the instructions that you might need to remove them. There is a set screw that holds the pulley shaft in place, losen that, pull the shaft out and the pulleys should slide right out. I don't think you will be able to route the cables with the pulleys in place also.
very useful! Thanks for sharing Just need to get my garage door modified for a 10' ceiling.
Glad you liked it. I know what you mean about headroom. I wanted a lift in my old garage but just didn't have the vertical space for it. I have a couple other videos related to the lift and will likely do more in the future. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss them! Hopefully some other videos you will like as well.
Great video! Very helpful. I'll have to research the fact that you needed an air line towards the end. Wondering if that is an ongoing need? I was assuming it was all motor driven. Thanks.
The air line is what releases the safety locks and I believe they have not changed that design (actually works very well). I do think they have an optional compressor that mounts onto the lift for this to make it self contained. Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful.
I just purchased a lift. As I was reading the instructions during the installation process I realized (multiple times) the provided instructions are badly written. I set this up solo as you did, and I appreciate your video! It helped tremendously!
I currently have it operational, but adjusting the safety ladders is still baffling me based off of the instructions. Can you post a video on it please?
Your video at 34:09 is what I am experiencing. I want to know how to correctly adjust the ladders so the all lock simultaneously (or very close)
@@FSTMRFR For what it's worth, this seems to be tied to the nuts at the top of the ladders. I'd start at 13:00 and then adjust accordingly. Hope that helps!
great video but wish you would have shown a bit more on the wiring up at the pump, connections, etc. That is a big of a question still in my mind. Thanks!
I don't recall the details (been over a year now since I did this install) but I don't recall it being too difficult. However I STRONGLY suggest if you are uncomfortable wiring it up you hire an electrician to do it!
Thanks for making this video! Very helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
Wow, very impressive, well done. What was the cost & time on this please ???? Thank you,,,,
Total cost was under $3000. It took me 3 full days to install but would have been much quicker if I wasn't filming.... also would be MUCH quicker if I had something like this video to go by to help me out! I suspect most people could do it in a day easily after watching this video, certainly if you have someone to help with the heavy parts.
How’d you get the compressed air hooked into the hydraulic?
What size bolts, nuts and spacers are the ones that go on the bottom of the safety ladders. Mine didn’t come with those and I need to pick some up. The slotted holes at the bottom in each of the posts. The ones you mentioned you missed.
Wish I had the room for one of these.
If you can find the space I certainly recommend getting one. Amazing how much nicer it is to work on vehicles when I don't need to crawl underneath.