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ROTARY AR18 18,000 lbs Drive-On Alignment Lift Package
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Rotary AR18 - 18,000 lb ALI Certified Drive-On Alignment Lift for Professional Service Facilities
The Rotary AR18 is a heavy-duty four-post drive-on alignment lift with an 18,000 lb lifting capacity, designed for professional automotive service facilities performing two-wheel and four-wheel alignments. Featuring the patented Dual-Function Sentinel Lock safety system, this lift accommodates wheelbases from 63 inches to 177 inches for alignments and includes 9,000 lb rolling jacks as standard equipment.
Key Features & Benefits
Patented Dual-Function Sentinel Lock Safety System
The Sentinel Lock system features a patented slack cable guide arm that automatically engages the lock latch if a cable issue is detected, providing redundant safety protection beyond standard locking mechanisms. This dual-function design ensures the lift remains securely locked at any height position, even if the hydraulic or cable system experiences an anomaly.
Traditional four-post lift locking systems rely solely on mechanical engagement without automatic redundancy. The Sentinel Lock addresses this industry-wide limitation by providing automatic failsafe engagement that requires no technician intervention or monitoring during lifting operations.
This enables shops to meet OSHA compliance requirements for fleet operations while reducing the risk of lift failure during service. The system provides peace of mind for technicians working beneath raised vehicles, knowing the redundant safety mechanism is always active.
Complete Alignment-Ready Package with 9,000 lb Rolling Jacks
The AR18 includes two 9,000 lb capacity rolling jacks as standard equipment, not sold separately. This complete package also includes stainless steel turning radius gauges, rear slip plates, an internal airline kit, and a filter/regulator/lubricator (FRL) assembly ready for immediate alignment work.
Many competing alignment lift packages require separate purchase of rolling jacks and alignment accessories, adding significant cost and complexity to the buying process. The AR18's all-inclusive approach eliminates this hassle and ensures all components are properly matched to the lift's capacity and runway dimensions.
This enables immediate wheels-free service for brake, suspension, and tire work without moving vehicles off the rack. Technicians can perform complete alignment procedures and related service operations in a single bay setup, improving shop throughput and reducing vehicle handling time.
Broad Wheelbase Versatility from Compact Cars to Commercial Trucks
The AR18 services wheelbases from 63 inches to 194 inches on the standard model, with the AR18EL extended variant accommodating up to 230 inches. Four-wheel alignment capability spans 63 to 162 inches on the standard model and 63 to 198 inches on the extended version, covering a wider vehicle mix than many competing alignment racks.
Service facilities often struggle with alignment lifts that can't accommodate their full range of customer vehicles, forcing them to turn away work or invest in multiple specialized racks. The AR18's broad wheelbase range eliminates this limitation for most shops.
This enables a single lift to handle everything from compact passenger cars and sedans to full-size vans, SUVs, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty commercial vehicles within the 18,000 lb capacity limit. Fleet operations benefit particularly from this versatility when servicing mixed vehicle fleets.
ALI Gold Certification with American Manufacturing Heritage
The AR18 is ALI Gold Certified (Model: AR18LO-X) with independent ETL testing, manufactured in an ISO 9001-certified facility in Madison, Indiana. Rotary is a founding ALI member since 1945 and part of Vehicle Service Group (VSG), the world's largest lift manufacturer network under Dover Corporation.
ALI Gold Certification requires third-party testing to ANSI/ALI ALCTV-2011 safety and performance standards, providing documented verification that the lift meets or exceeds published specifications. This certification level exceeds basic ALI listing requirements and demonstrates commitment to product quality.
This provides shops with documented compliance for insurance, OSHA, and customer confidence requirements. The American manufacturing heritage with nearly 100 years of history offers supply chain stability and responsive parts availability compared to imported alternatives.
Single-Point Air-Operated Lock Release for One-Technician Operation
The AR18 features a single-point air-operated lock release that disengages all four column locks simultaneously from one control location. This pneumatic system eliminates the need to manually release individual column locks, streamlining the lowering process significantly.
Multi-point lock release systems require technicians to walk around the lift and release each column separately, adding time to every vehicle cycle and creating potential for operator error if a lock is missed. The single-point design addresses this operational inefficiency.
This reduces labor requirements and improves bay throughput compared to multi-point release systems. A single technician can safely raise, service, and lower vehicles without assistance, maximizing staff efficiency during busy service periods.
Product Demonstration
Applications & Use Cases
- Auto Repair Shops: General repair facilities performing alignments, brake service, suspension work, and wheel service on passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks within the 18,000 lb capacity range.
- Dealership Service Departments: New and used car dealerships requiring high-volume alignment capability for pre-delivery inspections, warranty service, and customer maintenance across diverse vehicle lineups.
- Fleet Maintenance Facilities: Government, utility, and corporate fleets servicing vans, trucks, transit vehicles, and ambulances requiring consistent alignment and wheel service on mixed vehicle types.
- Commercial Vehicle Service: Shops specializing in medium-duty commercial vehicles, delivery vans, and work trucks that exceed typical two-post lift capacities but don't require heavy-duty truck equipment.
- Tire and Wheel Service Centers: High-volume tire shops performing alignments, rotations, and wheel service where drive-on convenience and quick turnaround times are essential for profitability.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | AR18 (Standard) | AR18EL (Extended) |
|---|---|---|
| Lifting Capacity | 18,000 lb | 18,000 lb |
| Maximum Wheelbase | 194 inches | 230 inches |
| 4-Wheel Alignment Range | 63-162 inches | 63-198 inches |
| 2-Wheel Alignment Range | Up to 177 inches | Up to 213 inches |
| Rise Height (Floor to Runway Top) | 70 inches | 70 inches |
| Time to Full Rise | 80 seconds | 80 seconds |
| Rolling Jack Capacity | 9,000 lb (each) | 9,000 lb (each) |
| Specification | AR18 (Standard) | AR18EL (Extended) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 274 inches | 310 inches |
| Overall Width | 137 11/16 inches | 137 11/16 inches |
| Runway Width | 22 inches | 22 inches |
| Minimum Bay Size | 13 ft x 27 ft | 13 ft x 30 ft |
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor | 2 HP |
| Voltage | 208-230V, Single Phase |
| Air Supply | Compressed air required for pneumatic lock release |
Installation Requirements
Bay Size Requirements
- AR18 Standard: Minimum 13 ft x 27 ft bay dimensions
- AR18EL Extended: Minimum 13 ft x 30 ft bay dimensions
- Clearance: Verify adequate ceiling height and door clearance for vehicle drive-on access
Foundation Requirements
- Concrete Depth: Minimum 5 inches for heavy-duty four-post installation
- Concrete Strength: Minimum 3,000 PSI compressive strength
- Mounting: Surface-mounted installation with supplied mounting hardware
Electrical Requirements
- Voltage: 208-230V single phase
- Motor: 2 HP power unit
- Circuit: Dedicated circuit recommended; verify local electrical code requirements
Installation Notes
- Air Supply: Compressed air connection required for pneumatic lock release system
- Professional Installation: Rotary Authorized Installer (RAI) installation recommended to preserve extended warranty coverage
- Permits: Verify local code compliance and permit requirements before installation
Shipping & Delivery
Freight Information
Origin: Ships from Madison, Indiana manufacturing facility.
Delivery Method: Heavy freight / LTL carrier delivery to commercial addresses.
Lead Times: Contact dealer for current availability and estimated delivery timeframes.
Receiving Requirements
Unloading Equipment: Forklift recommended for unloading due to weight and size of components.
Inspection: Inspect all packages before signing bill of lading. Note any visible damage on BOL before driver departs.
Concealed Damage: Report any concealed damage discovered after delivery promptly to carrier and dealer.
Warranty Coverage
Standard Warranty Program
5 Years - Structural Parts: Columns, runways, and major structural components against defects in materials and workmanship.
1 Year - Functional Parts: Power unit, cylinders, controls, and hydraulic components. Extends to 2 years with Rotary Authorized Installer (RAI) installation.
1 Year - Labor: Factory-authorized labor coverage for warranty repairs.
Warranty Requirements
Registration: Product registration required for extended functional parts coverage.
Eligibility: Valid for original purchaser only (non-transferable).
Exclusions: Wear items including cables, sheaves, adapter pads, and radius gauges are excluded unless defective.
Extended Coverage: RAI installation doubles functional parts warranty from 1 year to 2 years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifting capacity of the Rotary AR18?
The Rotary AR18 has an 18,000 lb lifting capacity, making it suitable for passenger cars, vans, SUVs, light trucks, and medium-duty commercial vehicles. Both the standard AR18 and extended AR18EL models share the same 18,000 lb capacity rating. The lift reaches full rise height of 70 inches in approximately 80 seconds using a 2 HP motor. This capacity handles most vehicles in general automotive and fleet service applications without requiring a heavy-duty truck lift.
What is the wheelbase range for the Rotary AR18?
The standard AR18 accommodates wheelbases up to 194 inches maximum, with four-wheel alignment capability from 63 to 162 inches and two-wheel alignment up to 177 inches. The extended AR18EL model handles wheelbases up to 230 inches, with four-wheel alignment range from 63 to 198 inches and two-wheel alignment up to 213 inches. This broad range covers compact cars through full-size vans, pickup trucks, and medium-duty commercial vehicles within the 18,000 lb capacity limit.
What accessories are included with the Rotary AR18?
The AR18 comes as a complete alignment-ready package including two 9,000 lb capacity rolling jacks for wheels-free service, stainless steel turning radius gauges, rear slip plates for alignment adjustments, an internal airline kit, and a filter/regulator/lubricator (FRL) assembly. The package also includes self-chocking approach ramps with louvers for traction, protective rollers on the ramps, and all necessary mounting hardware. No additional accessories are required to begin performing alignments immediately after installation.
What are the minimum bay size requirements for the AR18?
The standard AR18 requires a minimum bay size of 13 ft x 27 ft to accommodate the lift's 274-inch overall length and 137 11/16-inch overall width. The extended AR18EL requires a minimum bay size of 13 ft x 30 ft due to its 310-inch overall length. These dimensions provide adequate working space around the lift. Additional clearance should be verified for ceiling height to accommodate the 70-inch rise and for vehicle drive-on access through bay doors.
What are the concrete requirements for installing the Rotary AR18?
The AR18 requires a minimum concrete slab depth of 5 inches with minimum 3,000 PSI compressive strength for proper anchoring and load distribution. The lift uses surface-mounted installation with the included mounting hardware - no pit or special foundation preparation is required. Professional installation by a Rotary Authorized Installer (RAI) is recommended to ensure proper setup and to qualify for extended warranty coverage on functional parts. Verify local building codes before installation.
Is the Rotary AR18 ALI certified?
Yes, the Rotary AR18 is ALI Gold Certified under the model designation AR18LO-X, representing the highest level of ALI certification available. The lift is also ETL Listed through independent third-party testing and meets ANSI/ALI ALCTV-2011 safety and performance standards. Rotary manufactures the AR18 in an ISO 9001-certified facility in Madison, Indiana. As a founding ALI member since 1945, Rotary maintains rigorous quality standards across its lift product line.
What is the warranty on the Rotary AR18?
The AR18 includes a tiered warranty program with 5 years coverage on structural parts including columns and runways, 1 year on functional parts such as the power unit, cylinders, and controls, and 1 year of labor coverage. When installed by a Rotary Authorized Installer (RAI), the functional parts warranty extends to 2 years - doubling the standard coverage. Product registration is required for extended coverage, and the warranty is valid for the original purchaser only and is non-transferable.
What is the Sentinel Lock safety system on the AR18?
The patented Dual-Function Sentinel Lock system features a slack cable guide arm that automatically engages the lock latch if a cable issue is detected during operation. This provides redundant safety protection beyond standard mechanical locking mechanisms found on typical four-post lifts. The system keeps the lift securely locked at any height position even if the hydraulic or cable system experiences an anomaly. Combined with the single-point air-operated lock release, the Sentinel Lock enables safe one-technician operation.
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