Hydraulic lifts work on a basic principle: to go up, a pump pushes oil into the cylinder, pushing the piston (which pushes the lift car) up. To go down, the valve opens and oil is allowed to flow back into the reservoir, and is pushed back using the gravitational force of the lift car.

How are car lifts powered?

Most two post above ground lifts are powered by an electric/hydraulic power unit. … When the power button on the electric motor is pressed, the electric/hydraulic power unit delivers pressurized hydraulic fluid (through hydraulic hoses) to the two cylinders (one is located in each of the opposing columns).

How does a 4 post car lift work?

How does a 4 post car lift work? For those unfamiliar with how a 4 post car lift works, they’re used to elevate one of your parked vehicles using a hydraulic system. This optimizes your garage’s underutilized vertical space and allows you to park a second vehicle underneath.