Background
I recently picked up a gently used (albeit dusty) Dunwell 2000 lift. As I work more on 'die hexe' I'm realizing the value in getting her up on a lift. I've been saving pennies for a table, but the extra room is a problem at the moment and, quite frankly, I just can't afford the one (e.g Handy) I want. I've checked out a few of jacks (e.g. Craftsman, Harbor Frieght), but I'm extremely concerned regarding stability and build. Something like a J&S Jacks seem to be a good balance regarding space, stability and quality but even these are more money than I can justify spending at the moment.
Dunwell has been out of business for a while, but 5+ years ago they made a solid jack. J&S Jacks or Pitbull would be the only thing close to it now.
See the use and care guidelines and how to guide for more details on this jack.
The biggest issue I'm having with this at the moment is simply fitting this lift to an airhead. The oilpan and mufflers are lower than the frame so it seems some sort of extension mount will be required to match the frame design of my bike.
Update: After various attempts at fabricating a mounting bracket for my airhead, i've come to the conclusion there is no easy way to make this happen without either (a) taking off the exhast or (b) removing the center stand. As such, I've reluctantly decided to sell my Dunwell and save my pennies for a motorcycle table. sigh.
History
Some product details from the wayback machine:The Dunwell 2000tm is our top-of-the-line lift. You won't find a better motorcycle lift on the market today. The Dunwell 2000tm has the following design specifications:
- The lift frame is constructed of 3-inch formed channel made from six-gauge cold-rolled steel.
- The lifting arms are constructed of extra heavy-duty square tubing.
- All weld joints are MIG-welded by our certified welders.
- All pivot points have sleeved bushings to ensure smooth low-wear operation.
- The lift has a 1400 lb lift capacity--nearly twice the weight of most motorcycles.
- The lifting platform remains perfectly level--from its lowest position to its maximum lift height.
- The lifting platform has a wide footprint with a lift range from 4 1/2" to 24".
- Dual safety levers provide positive locking of the lift in place.
- 3-inch heavy-duty, all-swivel, sealed-bearing poly wheels rated at 700 lbs (static load) and 275 lbs (shock load) each.
- 4-ton bottle jack has twice the capacity required, ensuring smooth, reliable operation.
- Lifetime warranty on workmanship.
We are often asked if tie-downs are needed when lifting your motorcycle. Tie-downs are not necessary when lifting your motorcycle with a Dunwell Jacks motorcycle lift. Not convinced? See for yourself. As you can see in the pictures below, even with someone sitting on the rear of the bike, it is secure and stable.* Enough said!
Pictures
A random set of pictures of the Dunwell 2000 Lift (far more bland and far less crazy / dangerous than the original ones on the Dunwell web site) are included here:
