Jack Stands & Floor Jacks

Jack Stands & Floor Jacks

Jack stands and floor jacks are essential tools in any automotive workspace, whether for DIY car maintenance or professional vehicle repair. While floor jacks are used to lift a vehicle off the ground, jack stands are used to securely hold it in place once elevated. Used together, they provide a safe and stable way to access the underside of a vehicle.

🔧 Floor Jacks

A floor jack (also known as a trolley jack or service jack) is a hydraulic or mechanical tool designed to lift vehicles quickly and easily.

Key Features:

• Hydraulic Lift System: Most floor jacks use hydraulic pressure to raise heavy vehicles with minimal effort.

• Low-Profile Design: Ideal for cars with low ground clearance.

• Swiveling Casters: Makes positioning the jack easier in tight spaces.

• Lifting Capacity: Typically ranges from 2 to 4 tons for consumer models.

• Lift Range: Important to match with your vehicle type—ensure it can reach your car's jacking points.

Common Types:

• Hydraulic Floor Jack: Smooth and powerful lift; popular in garages.

• Bottle Jack: Compact and powerful but less stable—best for trucks or SUVs.

• Scissor Jack: Mechanical and compact—standard in most car trunks for emergencies.

Pros:

• Quick, easy lift

• High weight capacity

• Durable and stable

Cons:

• Requires jack stands for safety

• Bulky to store or transport

🦾 Jack Stands

Jack stands are used to hold a vehicle safely in an elevated position after it has been lifted by a jack. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack.

Key Features:

• Adjustable Height: Ratcheting or pin-lock systems allow for different vehicle heights.

• Weight Ratings: Typically 2 to 6 tons per pair; always exceed your vehicle’s weight.

• Base Design: Wide bases and pyramid structures offer maximum stability.

• Material: Usually made of high-strength steel or heavy-duty aluminum.

Common Types:

• Ratcheting Jack Stands: Easy to adjust with locking pawl for quick use.

• Pin-Type Jack Stands: Extra secure; preferred in professional settings.

• Foldable Jack Stands: Compact and portable for light-duty use.

Pros:

• Provides essential safety

• Adjustable to various heights

• Wide base for superior stability

Cons:

• Not used for lifting—must be paired with a jack

• Must match height and weight requirements of your vehicle

🛠️ Typical Uses:

• Tire changes

• Oil changes

• Brake repairs

• Suspension work

• Exhaust system inspections or replacements

⚠️ Safety Tips:

• Always use jack stands after lifting with a floor jack.

• Never work under a car supported by a jack alone.

• Use on a flat, solid surface.

• Engage the parking brake and chock wheels.

• Position stands at proper jacking points (consult your vehicle’s manual).

🏆 Top Brands:

• Arcan – Known for professional-grade floor jacks.

• Hein-Werner – Heavy-duty jack stands and jacks, made in the USA.

• Torin (Big Red) – Affordable and reliable for home garages.

• Sunex Tools – Industrial-grade equipment with high load capacity.

• Pittsburgh (Harbor Freight) – Popular among DIYers for budget-friendly quality.

✅ Perfect For:

• DIY Mechanics: Safe vehicle maintenance at home.

• Auto Repair Shops: Essential tools for professional repair.

• Off-Roaders & Enthusiasts: Heavy-duty gear for serious maintenance and upgrades.

Whether you're rotating your tires or diving into a full suspension overhaul, floor jacks and jack stands are must-haves for getting the job done safely and efficiently.