Scissor Lift Alignment

An alignment scissor lift adds front turnplate pockets and rear slip plates so the wheels can move as the suspension is adjusted, plus the rigidity and level accuracy alignment measurement requires. A standard scissor lift lacks these and cannot be used for alignment.

This collection spans roughly 12,000 lb through the mid-40s in rated capacity from Hofmann, Atlas, and AMGO, covering passenger and light truck alignment through heavier commercial work. Choose based on the heaviest vehicle you intend to align, with margin.

A scissor lift takes less floor space and leaves the bay clearer when lowered, especially in flush-mount form. A four-post rack offers drive-on convenience and is the traditional alignment configuration. Both work — the choice usually comes down to bay space and whether the lane does anything besides alignment. Alamo can help evaluate both against your bay.

Correct — The lift positions and holds the vehicle; the alignment system measures and guides the adjustment. They are separate purchases and need to be compatible in terms of lift height, runway dimensions, and target visibility.

Alignment lifts require level installation on adequate concrete, because measurement accuracy depends on the lift being true. Surface-mount and flush-mount versions have different preparation requirements. Confirm the specific model's concrete and levelness specification before installation.

The lift needs to remain level and the slip plates and turnplates need to move freely. Alignment accuracy problems often trace back to the lift rather than the alignment machine. Include lift level verification in your alignment equipment maintenance routine.

Some alignment scissor lifts carry ALI certification and some do not. Certification is model-specific. If certification is required for your insurance or program, verify the specific model's certification status rather than assuming it applies to the whole category.

These ship by freight and require professional installation, particularly flush-mount versions requiring concrete work. Alamo's installer network handles the professional install. Plan the lead time for both the equipment and any site preparation. Concrete work adds lead time most shops underestimate when scheduling flush-mount installs.