my boyfriend has auto homework for school he has to explain why a car has to be in neutral to be hoisted. Anyone know some good reasons why? thnx so much.
I agree with the other experienced mechanics here. No reason it has to be in neutral to be lifted. When lifted in neutral though, the mechanic can turn the wheels and driveline parts for easier inspection. If left in gear or park there may be a little pressure put on the transmission as the vehicle's suspension extends or compresses, but no more than parking on a hill with the transmission in P. Most mechanics I have worked with do these things when a car is to be worked on: leave it in neutral, roll down the driver's window, leave the steering unlocked, and have another cup of coffee.
To be honest... I have been doing this for over 15 years... I have never heard why it HAS TO BE in neutral to go up... but when it comes down... if the car is in gear... and either the front or rear tires grip the ground... when in gear... it can jar the car and move it on the lift points... which will shift the entire car... so its not safe... but that's when coming down... I guess maybe you should just do it when going up...
This is not a major concern when lifting a vehicle but to be correct the suspension will flex slightly which could put pressure on the transmission when it is locked up.This could also move it slightly so it won't be sitting on the hoist exactly the way you set it up. I've only had one car fall on me of a hoist, but that was due to all safety's on it where broken (yes I lived)
I would tell him to look it up in the books the school gave him. That is the answer the home work wants. Generally, the answers given by posters are from their experience. I've never heard of it before, as all 'hoists' are not created equal.
yes, because if the car is pushed or pulled from position when parked or when Hoisted or moved it could damage the transmission if in a drive (geer) or parked position rather than neutral position.. so it is safe in case car accidently is moved. suggestion is then to keep it in a neutral position . in that position it is free to move .-but if a attempt is to move the car--the safe way to prevent transmission problems would be to keep it in neutral . I had this experience when a truck hit me in parked position--later my transmission went. OK (:
