In an Australian heavy vehicle workshop, floor real estate is valuable. Fixed vehicle hoists can be inefficient as they occupy floor space even when not in use, hindering workflow and limiting workshop capabilities. Mobile truck and bus hoists offer a smarter solution, providing space-saving and flexible workshop layouts that boost productivity and safety.

Workshop Limitations of Fixed Hoists

Many older Australian workshops often use pits or fixed above-ground hoists, both of which create space limitations. Fixed hoists require dedicated bays around their lifting points. When a hoist is not in use, this bay remains idle, wasting valuable space. This inflexibility restricts workflow, particularly in workshops with limited space. Manoeuvring trucks and buses around fixed hoists can be difficult, requiring precise positioning and increasing the risk of minor accidents. Fixed hoists are also challenging in workshops that require adapting to different vehicle sizes.

Reclaiming Workshop Space

Mobile heavy vehicle hoists provide an ideal alternative to fixed hoists. Designed for portability, these hoists operate in synchronised pairs or sets to lift entire vehicles. Mounted on wheels or castors, mobile hoists can be moved around the workshop to the vehicle's location. After lifting, vehicles can be placed on stands, freeing up the hoists to lift other vehicles.

This mobility offers significant space-saving advantages. Workshops can move away from fixed bay layouts to dynamic, adaptable workspaces. Instead of fixed bays dictating workflow, floor space becomes flexible and adjustable to the vehicles being serviced and the tasks required.

Adapting to Australia's Diverse Workshop Demands

Mobile truck and bus hoists enhance workshop efficiency and productivity beyond space-saving. Below are some benefits of using mobile truck and bus hoists.

• Versatility: Mobile hoists allow workshops to utilise the entire floor space during peak periods and repurpose areas during quieter times
• Service a Range of Vehicles: Mobile hoists accommodate various wheelbases and vehicle sizes, including trailers and specialised vehicles. Both Endurequip and Finkbeiner can be used in sets of 4 to 20 hoists to lift different-sized trucks, buses, road trains, rail coaches, and agricultural or portable buildings
• Temporary Layout: In leased workshops, mobile hoists eliminate the need for permanent structural changes like pits or concrete drilling, preserving the building's integrity
• Indoor and Outdoor Use: IP 65-rated mobile hoists, like galvanised Finkbeiner models and Endurequip, are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, including wash bays and harsh outback conditions
• Minimised Vehicle Movement: Mobile hoists can be moved and brought to the vehicle, reducing unnecessary and time-consuming manoeuvring within the workshop
• Quick Lifting and Lowering: Fast lifting and lowering times, such as Finkbeiner's 90-second cycle, save time and accelerate repair processes
• Enhanced Accessibility: The open design of mobile hoists provides easy access around the vehicle, simplifying inspections and repairs and improving workflow efficiency

Australian Workshop Success

Read how an inter-state bus and coach company experiencing rapid growth switched to mobile hoists from fixed hoist bays and expanded its service capacity.

By switching to mobile bus hoists, they:

• Optimised Lifting Space: They maximised space around the mobile hoists to service both small and large buses without the need for an expensive building expansion
• Established Adaptable Service Zones: They reconfigured the workshop floor to handle different bus sizes for varied maintenance schedules
• Enhanced Workflow Efficiency: Reduced bus manoeuvring sped up turnaround times by minimising unnecessary movement and increased safety

Selecting the Ideal Mobile Hoist: Key Australian Workshop Considerations

Choosing the right mobile truck and bus hoist is crucial for space optimisation and workshop efficiency.

Consider these factors for Australian workshops:

• Lifting Capacity (Australian Standards Compliance): Ensure the hoist capacity exceeds the weight of the heaviest vehicles. Endurequip Portalift complies with Australian standards AS 2550.9.1996, AS/NZS 2538:2004 and ISO 9001, with safety features and underbody access
• Workshop Floor Conditions: Assess how easily hoists move and position across your workshop floor. Look for features like grab handles and appropriate wheel sizes for smooth movement
• Safety Features: Prioritise hoists with essential safety features, including accessible emergency stops and safety locks
• Manufacturer Reputation and Local Support: Select reputable manufacturers with proven experience. Endurequip is Australian-made in Brisbane, while Finkbeiner has a German manufacturing history since 1927. Both brands offer Australia-wide service and spare parts support

An Efficient Australian Workshop Future

Mobile truck and bus hoists overcome the limitations of fixed hoists, offering adaptable solutions for efficient workshop layouts. Endurequip and Finkbeiner mobile hoists empower Australian workshops to maximise space, streamline workflows, increase productivity, and thrive in a competitive market.

RUD will exhibit at the Brisbane Truck Show at the Brisbane Convention Centre from 15-18 May 2025. Visit our booth #297 on the Plaza Level for more details about our truck hoists and workshop handling solutions.

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Article copyright to RUD: This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.