I ran across a used Torin bike lift and I bought it. I'm just curious to know if anyone here uses one for doing oil changes? I haven't yet attempted it but seems the drain plugs on my bike MAY be located such that the lift arms are in the way for draining. Or, am I dreaming that I can do an oil change using it?

 

not sure what the Torin lift is or what it looks like, but if it is like my Craftsman, I would say no, you can't change oils with it. I have a Wheel Dock stand I use to park and will use that at times to change the oil. Probably your best bet is to continue to use your side stand and have a clear unobstructed "view" of the plugs.

 

Sorry, here's what I'm talking about...

 

It appears to be similar to the J&S that many of us use and if the arms are in the same position then yes, you can change your fluids with it. That being said despite the "1,500 lbs" rating it may not be true and/or stable enough for a HD touring bike. Many of the Asian made Jack's simply can't handle the weight of our bikes. My Harbor Freight Jack crumpled as soon as I tried to lift my Ultra. It had been fine for my Triumph. I bought a J&S which is designed for our bikes. Be careful.

 

Lifts just get in the way when changing fluids! Just my experience.

 

I have lifted it with this Jack but it is a bit daunting as both wheels off the ground the slightest 'shake' or 'bump' the bike needs to be tethered to something solid. The lift has a 'safety' lever that theoretically prevents collapse - much like the 'click click click click' mechanism on a roller coaster functions.

 

Yeah, that's kinda what I'm thinking

 

I owned that jack. It is dangerously weak for lifting a touring bike. I used it when I owned a Softail and it was marginal for that. Don't walk away from it. Also, I don't think you can access all of your drain plugs with the bike on it.

 

 

Hahahahaha! Funny