If your buddy ever decides he want's a lift for his (shop) for his pickup, or whatever, try looking into a scissor type lift. It is portable, electric over hydraulic, and you can get them in different lift height's, 36", 48" etc. I was looking at the 48" model, and most include free truck adapter's if you need them. There are several different brands, like Eagle, Bend-Pak, Greg Armstrong Equipment, etc. Our buddy has one, and I think he bought it through Greg Armstrong, and never had a problem with it. He work's on a lot of full size truck's, and has even had his 3/4 ton diesel pickup on his unit. Just a possible thought that may interest you. Good luck in whatever you decide.