Abstract: A hoist for lifting vehicles such as automobiles and trucks includes four vertical posts, each having flanges defining vertically extending channels. A lifting frame is disposed within the area defined by the posts and includes a slidable connection with each of the posts. The lifting frame is adapted to support a vehicle and thereafter to raise and lower the vehicle. The upper portions of the posts are connected by a pair of braces. Hydraulic cylinders are provided to raise and lower the lifting frame, one cylinder being connected to each corner of the lifting frame. Two hydraulic cylinders are secured to each brace and are connected to opposite ends of the lifting frame by a flexible connection in the form of a chain. Each chain is reeved about a pulley secured to one of the posts at or near the upper end of the post. The invention makes substantial use of H-beam and I-beam construction to provide an inexpensive, rapidly assembled hoist having great strength and versatility.