Baseplate vs Clearfloor Lifts
When choosing an automotive lift, one of the first decisions is Baseplate versus Clearfloor design — and each has advantages depending on your garage layout and the vehicles you work on.
Baseplate Lifts
Olympic 2PBP-12 - 12,000 lb. Baseplate Lift
Uses a reinforced steel plate across the floor to connect the two columns. This design works best for shops with low ceilings, since there's no overhead crossbar. If your garage ceiling is under 12 feet, a baseplate lift is often the safer choice. The trade-off is that the floor plate sits between the columns, so rolling jacks, transmission jacks, or creepers need to clear that hump.
Clearfloor Lifts
Olympic 2PCFHD-12 - 12,000 lb. Clearfloor Lift
Eliminates that floor obstruction by running the support structure overhead. That means the entire floor between posts stays wide open, perfect for wheeled equipment and shops that need a clean work zone. The catch: you'll need higher ceilings (usually 12' or more) to accommodate the overhead bar.
Which is right for you?
Standard two-car garage with lower ceilings?
The Baseplate model is a practical fit — compact and versatile.
Professional shop with higher ceilings and lots of rolling equipment?
The Clearfloor model will give you faster workflow and a cleaner floor space.
In short: Baseplate = low ceiling, budget-friendly versatility. Clearfloor = high ceiling, professional-grade convenience. Olympic Equipment offers both, so you can match the lift to your space, not the other way around.
