MADISON, Ind. (July 22, 2014) — Forward Lift has launched the ML11 drive-on scissor lift, which it said offers service shops the versatility and ease-of-use of a traditional four-post lift, but with a narrower footprint.
The 11,000-pound-capacity lift has an overall width that is two to three feet narrower than comparable four-post models, making it a good choice for smaller bays, the firm said. The ML11's scissor-style lifting mechanism is located entirely underneath the runways.
“With four-post lifts, the columns are placed outside of the runways, resulting in a wider overall footprint,” said John Uhl, sales and brand manager for Forward Lift. “The ML11 scissor lift is only as wide as its runways, which means it occupies less space than a four-post lift. With an overall length of only 228.5 inches, the ML11-46 model allows customers to create bays in spaces that competing lifts cannot fit into.”
According to Forward Lift, the ML11 can be used to service compact cars, sedans and light trucks. It is available with two runway lengths to meet varying user needs. The runways are not connected to each other at either the front or back, leaving an open work area that runs the length of the lift.
Forward Lift said the ML11's scissor mechanism is equipped with composite bearings that do not require routine maintenance. Synchronized hydraulic cylinders under each runway are controlled from a separate panel.
When in its lowered position, ramps at the rear of the lift allow vehicles to be smoothly driven onto the runways. As the lift is raised, the ramps automatically pivot to form chocks, keeping the vehicle in place.
Forward Lift said the ML11 scissor lift can be equipped for use in performing vehicle alignments. Alignment kits are available for both runway lengths, allowing technicians to perform four-wheel alignments on wheelbases from 68 inches to 173 inches.
Optional equipment for the ML11 scissor lift includes 4,500-pound-capacity rolling jacks to lift the vehicle off its wheels for tire, brake and suspension work and LED runway lights for improved under-vehicle visibility.
According to Forward Lift, the ML11 has been third-party tested by TÜV SÜD America Inc. and is certified by the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) to meet ANSI safety and performance standards. It will be available for shipment from Madison, Ind., in September.
To learn more about the new ML11 scissor lift, visit www.forwardlift.com.