I've been using a free standing 2 post everyday for 10 years. They are safe "if" installed and used properly. After installation, making sure the weight of the vehicle is distributed evenly is number one in my book. A two post takes more time to get a vehicle in the air because of the time it takes to position the vehicle and the lift arms. A 4 post is simple and fast to use. Any vehicle you can drive on it, if it's within the weight limit of the hoist, can be raised. With the 2 post I use, (Rotary) sometimes it is almost impossible to position the arms to lift some vehicles safely (Furd PUs come to mind), IMHO. A 4 post is what I am going to install in my shop. Most of the time I just need something in the air for service. I don't like the idea of a bro-in-law,nephew or friend asking my wife if they can use the hoist for a small job. A 2 post is great in that it leaves the whole under side clear and the suspension hanging free. But a 4 post most anyone can use. A 2 post requires thought.
There are pros and cons to both. Talk to several users of both types. Most folks are happy to tell you how they like what they have, and what they would buy next time. Mike
