Are you a mechanic or a car enthusiast?
If so, you know the importance of having the right tools to get the job done. There are an endless amount of tools needed for car repairs. However, one of the most important items you’ll want to have in your garage is a portable floor jack.
A floor jack is used to lift a car off of the ground. This improves your visibility and reaches beneath the car. If you don’t have a portable floor jack, now is the time to invest in one.
Keep reading for purchasing tips for the best portable floor jack.
Types of Floor Jacks
There are 3 main types of floor jacks that you can buy. Let’s review them below.
→Hydraulic Floor Jack
This jack is the one that you’re most likely to find in a mechanic’s garage. These jacks are very convenient and easy to use.Check out our all best hydraulic floor jack here.
→Scissor Jack
Most cars come with a scissor jack. These jacks are ideal for changing tires. They are extremely compact — but are limited.
A scissor jack cannot raise a car very high off the ground. So, you cannot use a scissor jack, even for everyday car repair needs.
→Piston Jack
A piston jack is similar to a floor jack. It is hydraulically operated and works with a pumping lever. A piston jack is usually much smaller than a floor jack.
Is your car lowered? If so, a piston Jack isn’t the best option. These jacks are tall, and will often not fit under a lowered car.
What to Look for in a Portable Floor Jack
There is a wide variety of jacks that you can purchase. From low profile jacks to hydraulic jacks, how do you know which one is best for your needs?
Keep reading for buying tips for a portable floor jack.
1. Consider the Types of Cars You Work With
Ground clearance is important when choosing a jack.
Cars that have low ground clearance work best with a floor jack. If your car is very low profile, you can purchase a jack that is suitable for this ground clearance.
A floor jack can be used for a variety of cars. From SUVs to trucks, this jack is highly versatile.
However, if you have a lifted car, a floor jack isn’t your best bet. For vehicles with high ground clearance, a bottle jack is more suitable.
2. Consider the Car’s Weight
All floor jacks have a maximum weight capacity. When using a portable floor jack safely, you will need to be well aware of its weight capacity.
Weight capacity is usually identified in tons. Two to three ton jacks are the most common. These jacks can hold:
- SUVs
- Vans
- Full-size cars
- Trucks
If your car is heavier than the average car, find a jack with the proper weight capacity.
Remember, using a jack to lift a car that is too heavy can be dangerous. If the car is too heavy for the jack, the jack could fail, which can cause damage to you and the car.
3. Always Buy for Quality
When it comes to a portable floor jack, it pays to buy a more expensive jack. While a cheap price tag is enticing, you get what you pay for.
You want a jack that you can use for years to come. You also want a jack that you can depend on to properly hold a car.
Before purchasing a jack:
- Make note of the brand
- Check the material (avoid plastic jacks)
- Look at the finish of the jack
- Inspect it for leaks
The importance of buying a quality jack cannot be overstated. Almost 5,000 people each year are injured by jacking up their vehicle.
Quality jacks are usually the safest to use. Don’t risk your life to save a few dollars!
5 Best Portable Floor Jacks
Purchasing a portable floor jack online? Want to ensure you’re selecting a quality jack?
If so, you’re in luck! Here are 5 of the best portable floor jacks.
1. Arcan XL2T Black Low Profile Steel Service Jack
The Arcan XL2T is a professional grade floor jack that is built with safety in mind. It is lightweight, but durable. This jack offers a 32-inch chassis with a maximum height of 24 inches.
This jack can hold up to 2 tons. With a dual pump system, this jack is easy to use.
Add this jack to your garage for about under $200.
2. Powerbuilt 620422E Heavy Duty Triple Lift Jack
The Powerbuilt 620422E jack proves that lightweight material is still sturdy. The jack is made of light aluminum but can hold up to 4,000 pounds. It can be used on any type of car.
For maximum lifting capability, this jack offers a triple lift system.
Like other jacks, this brand uses a locking system to avoid over-pumping. It also offers caster wheels for easy storage and transport.
This jack will cost you under $200.
3. Blackhawk B6350 BlackRed Fast Lift Service Jack
If you need a jack that is stable and can handle a heavy car, the Blackhawk B6350 is the one for you.
This jack is affordable but durable. It can hold a maximum 3.5 tons. For added safety, the model has a lock and bypass, which prevents excessive pumping.
The jack also has a swivel saddle for easy use.
4. Powerzone 380044 3 Ton Aluminum and Steel Garage Jack
The Powerzone 380044 is made of lightweight aluminum and sturdy steel. It can hold cars weighing up to 6,000 pounds. The maximum lift is 18 inches.
For your protection, this jack’s saddle is covered in rubber. The rubber keeps the jack from slipping.
5. Pro-Lift F767 Low Profile Floor Jack
The Pro-Lift F767 is an affordable jack that still offers high-quality. The jack is made of solid steel and offers a 14 inch maximum lift.
The jack also has caster wheels for easy transport and movement. The Pro-Lift F767 can hold up to 2 tons. The system offers protection against over-pumping to keep you and your car safe.
This jack is one of the least expensive on the list, costing under $100
Be an Informed Buyer
Looking to purchase a portable floor jack? Need to add other tools to your car repair arsenal? If so, be a wise buyer!
Before purchasing any new tools, read the reviews first. This ensures that you are making a quality purchase. Don’t let your money go to waste on low-quality tools.
Contact us today to get started on purchasing the best floor jack. We also provide how-tos and a buying guide.
