Using Jack Stands The Right Way Is A Life Saver
Do you want a simple way to compare the Different Types of Jack Stands quickly? Whether you’re just looking for the best deals or want to guarantee you’re only investing in the highest-rated jack stands, this list of the top jack stands for 2022 was written specifically for you.
If you were a do-it-yourself kind of guy like I am, you surely would want to know of the different kinds of jack stands available. Everywhere you look, there are all kinds of jack stands for sale, but do you know the different types? To make it simple, there are two main variations. The adjustable height and the fixed height jack stand.
Before you settle on one, you ought to know that the material composition makes a whole lot of difference. Your typical jack stand is made of aluminum or light steel, but the heavy-duty jack stands, their structure is made of steel and cast iron.
Safety First Where Jack Stands Are Concerned
There's a lot of misinformation on the Internet about using jack stands. Some people say you only need them if you are going to raise a vehicle with your own hands, while others say you should use them anytime you are going to lift anything.
Neither of these statements is true. Safety regulations are in place for a good reason, and using jacks when they are not required is asking for trouble.
When you use a jack stand, the first thing you should do is make sure the stand is properly set up for the weight of the vehicle you are lifting.
Lifting a vehicle is a tricky business. When you're working with heavy machinery, there's always the chance of something going wrong. That's why it's important to use safety equipment, and that's why we've put together this guide to safely using jack stands.
Car Jack Stands
All of the Jack Stands listed here are for use with a car or van. You can use them with a motorbike, but they will not perform very well.
Motorbike Jack Stands
Motorbike Jack Stands are different types of Jack Stands that those used by a car. We have a full article on motorbike jack stands for a much broader review of these types of stands. We list a very popular motorcycle jack stand below for your reference.
Let’s Start with The Adjustable Height Jack Stands.
Adjustable Height
These allow for height adjustment. Most adjustable height jack stands have a tripod base, they are also divided into three main categories; the ratchet type, the pin type, and the rotation/ threaded type.
Ratchet Jack Stand
The ratchet-type jack stands have a self-locking ratchet center column, hence the name. Because of the self-lock mechanism, these jack stands are the easiest to use, just place it under the safe jack point, pull on the center column till the saddle touches the jack point and the ratchets will lock in by themselves. To release it, you raise the steel handle that locks the ratchets on the center column.
Pin Jack Stand
They come in all shapes and sizes. What differentiates them from other jack stands it the fact that their locking mechanism is a tethered pin. The center column has varying heights with holes through it that the pin passes through to lock it. Some of them have a foldable base for easy packing.
Rotation Threaded Type Jack Stand
This is the third type and least known of the three. The center column is cylindrical with threads. To use it, turn the center column clockwise to raise it up, and anti-clockwise to lower it down. The saddle rests on a socket that renders it immobile when rotating the center column.
Fixed Height
These kinds of jack stands have a fixed height. Since they have no moving parts, it is rare to have them fail on you. The lack of adjustability on their part limits their use. Most of them are not portable but are extremely reliable and durable.
These are best for use in one location and for a specific vehicle. When you get the right one for your car, it can be one of your most reliable tools.
NOTE: We could not find a suitable fixed height jack stand to show you. The item below is an adjustable jack stand with a weight limit set at 6 tons.
Other Types
After looking at the different types, it is only fair to look at what other options are out there. Here, we will look at the all-in-one jack stand.
These kinds of jack stands do both the lifting and holding of a vehicle. They come with the jack affixed to an adjustable jack stand, mostly a pin type.
The advantage of this type over the others is especially prominent when you have a unibody vehicle to deal with. These kinds of vehicles have the challenge of properly lifting and holding the body up, owing to the number of safe jack points per location.
With this jack, you only need one safe jack point to both lift and hold the vehicle up.
How Often Do Jack Stands Fail?
I've never had a jack stand fail on me. It happens very rarely, and the only reason it can happen at all is because of improper maintenance. Jack stands are one of those things where you don't have to worry much about them failing unless you are careless with them.
All manufacturers guarantee their products for a certain period of time. However, after the guarantee expires, most companies don't even test their products to see if they still work.
So, how likely is it that your car jack stand will fail after the warranty expires? I don't know exactly, but I think it's pretty high. In fact, I believe it's more likely than not.
Your car jack stand is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. It holds the car up while you work on the tires, the engine, or whatever else needs to be done. Ensure it is in good working condition and that it has no defects in the materials.
According to kwik-lift, the average lifespan of a car jack is 12 to 16 years. That means the jack you have in your trunk is probably going to last longer than you are if you ever need it.
However, that doesn't mean it can't happen to you. You see, even though the average lifespan of a car jack is 12 to 16 years, it is still possible for it to fail when you put a lot of stress on it.
Like when you try to raise the car up on its wheels so you can move it. Or when you use the jack stand in the wrong spot on your car. Be aware of where you place it, and in what situation you place it.
Is It Safe To Place A Car On Four Jack Stands?
It is always best to be safe than sorry. If you are going to do something, do it right! Working underneath a car that is fully supported by jack stands is pretty safe as long as you have done a good job supporting the stands and car in the correct jacking positions.
It is always good practice to have a second pair of eyes watching your work. Having a trusted friend or family member with you can prevent a lot of stress and anxiety.
If you are going to work on something that requires a lot of concentration and/or involves a lot of risks, it is best to work on a completely level surface like a concrete or asphalt driveway.
Are Jack Stands Dangerous?
To be blunt – YES. Jack stands are there to keep your car up whilst you are working underneath it. Therefore they are to be used with CAUTION. In 2020 Harbor Freight recalled 1.7 million Jack Stands due to a dangerous defect.
Conclusion
After looking at the different types of jack stands and their use, which one best fits the bill for dealing with your car? Answer this and get yourself a set. Remember that a quality set of jack stands will last a lifetime.
