What repairs can not be done without a Hydraulic Lift

Post by **plumsmooth** » 20 Jan 2015, 08:49

Pardon this newbee question but in my quest to teach myself Volvo mechanics I have always been intimidated by thinking that a lot of things can not be done without a lift.

Now I have even read of people repairing RMS's without one.

My friend said exhaust welding work one needs a lift.

Just curious what the general opinion on this is?

I see one can get ramps...

Post by **cn90** » 20 Jan 2015, 09:05

In my 25 years being a grease monkey, I don't have a lift.

Lift is good (not a must) for RMS and clutch job.
Lift is good when you are old and have bad back, otherwise floor jack, jack stands will be good for 99% of the jobs at home.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 20 Jan 2015, 09:07

I have replaced virtually everything and I don't have access to a lift, just jack stands and my driveway. Exhaust is the one place where it is really tough since the muffler line is so long and the way that you need to angle it to get around the rear suspension. I have replaced the RMS while I was changing a clutch and done engine / transmission swaps.

A lift is really, really nice to have but damn few of us shade tree types have one. I think my neighbors get a little bent out of shape over me working on the cars all the time in the driveway but they would totally stroke out if I bought a lift.

...Lee

Post by **tryingbe** » 20 Jan 2015, 10:03

If you ask me which one is easier...

mika · Post by **mika** » 20 Jan 2015, 10:11

Those pics are great! Out with the subframe and all, just like in a Porsche

Post by **misha** » 20 Jan 2015, 16:24

Almost everything can be done without a lift but having one just make everything so easier and faster.