Working on your car can be a fun and relaxing experience. It can also be extremely dangerous. In addition to common injuries like scraped knuckles, getting your finger pinched, or a burn on your skin, many serious injuries are lurking just around the corner. All it takes to fall victim to such an injury is a momentary lapse of judgment or carelessness.
- Lightweight jack stands are used to support your vehicle after lifting with a jack; Wide pyramid foot base provides added strength and stable support
- Constructed of high-grade forged steel with a welded frame design for durability, it handles a wide range of vehicles including small cars, SUVs, and light duty trucks
- Adjustable height ranges from 11-1/4" to 16-3/4" with a 3 ton (6,000 lb) load capacity
- Multi-position ratchet bar has a sawtooth design, allowing for quick height adjustments that lock into place
- Features a large saddle surface area for better contact with the load being supported; Tested for reliability and safety to meet ASME standards
When you are using a jack to raise your vehicle and when you are working under it are two perilous times. The last thing any person wants is to have several tons of car falling on top of them. Thankfully, you can avoid many of these issues by selecting a quality jack stand. We’ve researched the best stands available and created a top ten list, and handy buyers guide to assist you in making the best purchase for your needs. Ok, lets see our updated jack stand ratings 2020:
| PRODUCT NAME | QUALITY | |
|---|---|---|
| Torin T43002 (Editor’s Choice) | Best Budget Stand Option | Check Price |
| Performance Tool W41021 | Great for Lightweight Trucks | Check Price |
| ESCO 10498 | Best Single Stand | Check Price |
| Cartman 3 Ton | Good Budget Choice | Check Price |
| Powerzone 380036 | Great Inexpensive Wide Base | Check Price |
| OTC 5372 Stinger | Best Moderately Priced Jack Stand When Extra Stability is Needed | Check Price |
| Craftsman 4 Ton | Best Moderately Priced Stand for Heavier Vehicles | Check Price |
| Strongway Double-Locking 12-Ton | Best Professional Stands for a Moderate Price | Check Price |
| Powerbuilt 620471 3 Ton | Best Multitasking Stand Option | Check Price |
| Camco 44561 Olympian | Best Jack Stand for RV Owners | Check Price |
| Torin Big Red Aluminum | Best light weight, strong jack stands | Check Price |
The Torin Big – Best Budget Stand Option
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The Big Red Steel Car Jack Stands come as a pair. Each stand can support 3 tons, and features ratchet action vehicle support. Stability is provided by a locking rack and pawl. These stands are designed to be used in pairs for ultimate safety. The stands comply with ASME Safety Standards and offer a support range of 11 ¼ to 16 ¾ inches.
Nice Finish and Sturdy Base.
The Torin Big Red Steel Jack Stand pair is constructed from high-grade steel and built to last. These stands are high-quality and durable. The stand offers precise adjustments thanks to its single-piece self-locking forged iron ratchet bar that can lock into multiple positions. The large saddle surface area provides significant contact with the vehicle being supported. This set is a great option for anyone that needs a pair of stands that are inexpensive yet durable and safe.
- Sold in pairs
- 3-ton support
- Support range of 11 ¼ to 16 ¾ inches
- Meets ASME Safety Standards
- Inexpensively priced
- Locks into multiple positions
- Durable
- Combined 6-ton weight may not be suitable for heavier vehicles/loads
Torin Big Red Aluminum – best
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With a weight capacity of 3 tons for each pair of stands, Torin’s Big Red Aluminum Jack Stands can hold up most cars and light trucks. They accomplish this while weighing less and taking less space than their heavier steel counterparts that are also made by Torin.
This makes these stands more convenient if you need to transport them often. They feature a cotter pin locking mechanism to set the lift height, which is safer than other mechanisms like ratcheting stands. The trade-off for this increase in safety is fewer lift height positions that can be selected.
Are you looking for a pair of 3-ton jack stands that are light and easy to transport?
Torin’s aluminum Big Red Jack Stands are lighter and more portable than their steel versions. You do lose some tensile strength by switching to aluminum, but the upside is a lighter more compact product. We’d recommend these stands if you need to take them with you to remote work sites and don’t need to lift anything heavier than a light truck.
- Lightweight aluminum construction makes these stands easy to move from place to place
- The locking pin is safer than other mechanisms used to fix jack stands in place at a desired height
- Rated to lift up to 3 tons, which is enough to support most cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks
- Aluminum is lighter than steel, but not quite as strong
Performance Tool Heavy Duty Set – Great for Lightweight Trucks
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The Performance Tool 2-ton Heavy Duty Jack Stand Set comes with two jack stands. Each stand can support 2 tons. The stands feature a double locking pawl and a quick adjustment mechanism. Stability is provided by a locking rack and pawl. These stands are designed to be used in pairs for ultimate safety. The stands meet ANSI requirements and offer a support range of 10 3/8 to 16 3/8 inches.
Best for truck
The Performance Tool 2-ton Heavy Duty Jack Stand Set is crafted from high-grade steel and extremely durable. These stands use ratcheting style for easier adjustments. It’s quick and easy to change the height. This option is an excellent choice for use with cars and light duty trucks. The Performance Tool stands also have a tough, bright yellow enamel finish, making them a safe and attractive choice that’s easy to see if used on the side of the road.
- 2-ton support
- Inexpensively priced
- Bright yellow can be seen from far away to prevent accidents if used on the side of road
- Durable
- Not meant for heavier trucks or loads
ESCOJack Stand – Best Single Stand with Lots of Adjustment Settings
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The ESCO Jack Stand has a 3-ton capacity. This professional-grade jack stand features an exceptional flat top as well as a removable rubber saddle cushion. This functional design helps to protect the vehicle’s frame in an improved fashion as opposed to the traditionally curved axle post jacks stands. The stand offers a support range of 13 to 21 inches and has ten adjustable positions.
Finally a solid jack stand
The ESCO Jack Stand has a powder-coated base to protect against corrosion. It is built to last. The rubber pad design helps to protect against scratching your car’s paint job, while it’s circular base provides exceptional stability and safety. This item is a perfect choice for anyone that wants to buy one jack stand at a time, or that doesn’t mind spending a bit more for quality and peace of mind.
- Robust, durable design
- 3-ton support
- Support range of 13 to 21 inches
- Protects against scratching paint and surfaces
- Ten adjustable positions
- Circular base provides exceptional stability and durability
- Best jack stands for the money
- Sold as a single unit, not a pair of stands
- More expensive than other options
Cartman 3-Ton – Budget Choice Jack Stand Set
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The Cartman Jack Stands come sold as a pair. Each stand has a 3-ton support capability. This option features a double locking pawl and tooth design, offering extra safety and protection. Strength and durability are ensured with a one-piece multiple position ductile ratchet bar. This model exceeds the requirements of safety for ANSI and offers a support range of 11 to 16 inches.
Meets or exceeds ANSI requirements
The Cartman Jack Stand set is an economical choice. These stands are high-quality and durable. This model has a quick adjustment mechanism and offers an effective mechanism to guard against slippage. These stands are easy to use and built to last. This model is a good option for anyone that needs a pair of stands that are lower priced and lift to lower heights.
- 3-ton support
- Exceeds ANSI Safety Standards
- Inexpensively priced
- Support height 11 to 16 inches
- Durable
- Combined 6-ton weight may not be suitable for heavier vehicles/loads
The Powerzone – Great Inexpensive Wide Base Jack Stand Option
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Milestone Tools Powerzone 3-ton Jack Stands come as a pair. Each stand can support 3 tons and is crafted from heavy-duty steel. Designed to provide a wide base and sturdy frame, this stand was created to ensure a reliable method of working under your vehicle. This model offers a support range of 11 to 16-1/2 inches.
Heavy duty construction
The Powerzone Jack Stand set is an inexpensive yet durable choice. This item is equipped with a convenient ratcheting style locking bar which allows for easy multiple position height adjusting. They are a great choice for home mechanics looking for a strong, tough option.
- Sold in pairs
- Inexpensively priced
- Support range of 11 to 16 ½ inches
- Locks into multiple positions easily
- Durable
- May not be suitable for larger, heavier vehicles or loads
The OTC – Good Solid design
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The OTC Stinger Jack Stands are sold as a pair. Each stand can support 3 tons. This item features a ratcheting system and a quick release handle. It has also been crafted with an over center cam to ensure that the arm is locked into place safely under a heavy load. The stands offer a support range of 12 to 18 inches.
Good height if needed
The OTC Stinger features a pyramid shaped design that allows the weight to be distributed evenly. The legs of the stand have flat feet welded to them, providing greater stability. This item is a great option in the moderate price range for anyone who needs increasing stability in their jack stand’s design.
Best Moderately Priced Jack Stand When Extra Stability is Needed
- Designed with stability in mind
- Moderately priced
- Durable
- 3-ton support
- Sold in pairs
- Better for intermediate weights rather than cumbersome loads
The Craftsman 4 Ton – Best for Heavier Vehicles
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The Craftsman 4 Ton auto jack stands is sold in a set of 2. They are rated at 4-tons each. This model features a ratchet design and provides easy, secure, and fast adjustments. Stability is ensured by a sturdy welded steel construction. These stands also have a counter weighted pawl with quick adjustment control as well as a safe, secure locking device to prevent accidents and injuries. The stands offer a support range of 12 to 17 5/16 inches.
Sturdy stamped steel construction
Craftsman 9 50163 4 Ton Jack Stand is constructed from high-grade steel and are extremely durable. They have a baked enamel finish to ward off rust and corrosion. This model is sturdy and built to last. This item is a great option in the moderate price range for those needing to raise a heavier vehicle or load.
- Baked enamel surface
- Durable
- Moderate priced
- Support range of 12 to 17 5/16 inches
- 4-ton support
- Counter weighted pawl
- The paint may chip easier on this stand compared to other brands
The Strongway Double-Locking 12-Ton – Best Professional Stands
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The Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands are sold as a set with two stands included. The stands have a support capacity of 12 tons. This model features a patented double lock technology, and are also designed with a safety pin which adds extra security.
Strongway are manufactured from high-grade steel and coated with lead-free paint. These stands are crafted in ISO certified facilities and are engineered utilizing the technology applied to Aerospace and Automotive industries. The stands comply with ASME PALD Safety Standards and offer a support range of 18 5/16 to 28 inches.
Welded frame design
Strongway Double-Locking Jack Stands – Pair, 12-Ton Capacity, 18 5/16in.-28in. Lift Range feature a welded frame for added strength and safety. They are easy to clean since the stands are paint, dirt, and oil resistant. This item is perfect for professional mechanics that need to put safety and peace of mind at the forefront of their jack stand purchasing decisions.
- Paint, oil, dirt resistant and covered with lead-free paint
- 12-ton support capability
- Support range of 18 5/16 to 28 inches
- Meets ASME PALD Safety Standards
- Moderately priced
- Great for professionals and businesses
- Double-locking design
- May not be as suitable for lighter weight, lower clearance cars
The Powerbuilt 620471 3-Ton Capacity Unijack – Best Multitasking Stand Option
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The Powerbuilt Unijack has a support capability of an impressive 3 tons. The Unijack is one of the only models available in today’s market that can safely and properly lift and hold a unibody or a body on frame style vehicle. This item offers a support range of 11 to 21 inches.
Highly durable
Powerbuilt 620471 Unijack – 6000 lb. Capacity exceptional design allows you to lift and hold your vehicle in the same place since it combines a jack stand and hydraulic bottle jack into one unit. This model eliminates the need for a separate jack stand. This option is a perfect choice for those with sport utility vehicles, Jeeps, or trucks.
- No need to buy a separate jack stand
- Support range of 11 to 21 inches
- Unique multitasking design
- Moderately priced
- Best 3 ton jack stands
- 3-ton weight may not be suitable for heavier vehicles/loads
The Camco Olympian Aluminum Stack – Best Jack Stand for RV Owners
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The Camco Olympian RV Aluminum small jack stands are crafted specifically for RV positioning. The design allows for secure, stable, and level positioning. This item is made from cast aluminum. It features a support weight of up to 3 tons.
This jack stand is able to extend up to 17″. It’s extremely cheap and easy to use and perfect for RV owners. I see it on walmart, by phrase how much does a car jack cost? and where to buy jack stands ? But you can buy it at Amazon too
- 3-ton support
- Support range up to 17 inches
- Great for RV’s
- Inexpensively priced
- Lightweight
- Lighter capacity of weight may not be suitable for heavier vehicles/loads
Jack Stand Buying Guide
It may seem obvious that the best way to stay safe while lifting your vehicle is by ensuring you use a floor jack. Unfortunately, a floor jack is not enough to keep you from injuries. Floor jacks have movable parts that are prone to wearing out, which means they can become weakened and eventually fail over time with use. Sometimes, a floor jack can slowly lose pressure and slowly lower the car down onto you, resulting in serious injuries or even death. The best rule of thumb is to never work under a car supported by a floor jack. Instead, you should invest in a quality jack stand to prevent injuries and fatalities while gaining peace of mind.
Different types of jack stands
Stand Material
There is not a lot of variance in jack stands but the material they are made out of can make a big difference.
Small, lightweight stands tend to be made out of aluminum or light steel. Jack stands made for heavy duty vehicles should be made of cast iron or steel.
Fixed Height
These stands have a fixed height, which gives them the advantage of having zero moving parts to fail. However, they cannot be adjusted so they are not as versatile and are not really portable. These stands are extremely reliable and durable and if they are only used in one location with the same vehicle, they are a great choice.
Adjustable Height
Adjustable jack stands allow the height to be adjusted. The most common type is a tripod stand using a notched center column for the height adjustment. The height is adjusted using an attached ratchet.
Heavy-duty adjustable jack stands often use a steel pin that is inserted into holes in the center column. High quality stands will come with a second safety pin.
The final type of adjustable height jack stands are called rotation stands and the user must turn the center column clockwise to raise the height and counterclockwise to lower it.
Why Can’t I Just Use a Floor Jack or a Ramp?
A floor jack is what comes in your spare tire changing kit. These high lift jack stands are lightweight, small, and are not safe to use in any other application other than changing a tire. Even then, you need to exercise caution and ensure you stay safely out from underneath the car.
While a ramp is a safer alternative than a floor jack, they aren’t as versatile as a car lift stand. They offer large, solid contact points that are not likely to fail. However, if you need to remove a wheel to examine your brake pads, for example, a ramp will not let you hold the car up safely without a wheel. While ramps are useful in many ways, such as when replacing a muffler, they cannot replace a jack stand.
What’s a Jack Stand Anyways?
A jack stand is an essential item to ensure your safety when working under a vehicle. A jack stand is a mechanical tool that allows you to adjust the height of the vehicle and supports the vehicle’s weight once it is lifted. This tool allows for a stable machine driven failsafe to prevent your car from falling. This means that you would not need to rely on the hydraulics of the low profile jack stands only to avoid the car from falling back down. It’s important to note that you should never depend on the hydraulic car jack to keep a car lifted, it is entirely unsafe to do so. A jack stand is also safer since it has few possible failure points.
Typically, a car lift stands will consist of a base frame, a ratcheting post which is attached to the platform where the vehicle sits, and a ratchet handle mechanism. Most of the adjustable jack stands currently on the market allow you to pull the platform in an upward motion freely, while you will need to disengage the ratchet mechanism to lower the jack stand. Once the vehicle is resting on the platform, it is practically impossible to accidentally release the ratchet since by doing so it would require that you lift the entire weight of the car with your hand strength only.
In What Situations and When Should You Use a JackStand?
Generally, a jack stand should be utilized every time you lift even one wheel of a vehicle off of the ground. You should use one if you were working underneath your vehicle in any capacity whatsoever. The reasons for using a jack stand include:
• Raising a vehicle with only a floor jack is dangerous
• Hydraulic jacks have been known to fail occasionally, allowing the car to fall
• A jack stand prevents the car from wobbling or tipping, as well as from falling
• A jack stand provides multiple points of contact to support the car
• Jack stands provide a fail-safe from the vehicle falling and crushing you
Safety Tips for Using a Jack Stand
picture from supercheapauto.co.nz
In addition to common sense and good judgment there are a few things to remember when using jack stands to ensure you stay safe and injury free. You should never, under and circumstances trust a floor jack to support a vehicle by itself. You should always use jack stands. You should also give the vehicle a small shake after setting it up on the jack stands to ensure it is stable
You should use one vehicle jack for each wheel that is lifted off from the ground. To maintain the vehicle’s stability, it should have four points of contact with the ground or with one or more jack stands. This will ensure that the car is as stable as possible and can prevent accidents and injuries.
Be aware of the specific points on your vehicle where it’s safe to place a jack stand. These areas are typically referred to as jack stands autozone points, lift points or jacking points. They are reinforced to be able to hold the entire weight of the car. You can easily find these areas in an owner’s manual or through a quick online search. If you don’t use these points, you risk damaging the vehicle or causing it to fall by accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knowing Your Jacks - Right Jack For The Job
Car Stands / Jack Stands
Provide stability to your vehicle when it's raised. Always use in conjunction when using a jack.
- designed specifically to hold vehicle weight for extended periods of time
Trolley Jack
Used to lift and lower a vehicle in order to place vehicle support stands underneath it.
- not for holding vehicle weight
Bottle Jack
Used to lift and lower a vehicle in order to place vehicle support stands underneath it, or for roadside use.
- not for holding vehicle weight
Scissor Jack
Used to lift and lower a vehicle in order to place vehicle support stands underneath it, or for roadside use.
- not for vehicle repair work
Important Considerations for Choosing Jack Stands
It is important to understand that car jack lift are made in a wide variety of heights, sizes, and weight capabilities. The height they can lift the car to will vary widely. You’ll need to be certain that the stand can lift your vehicle to the proper height. For example, a sports car will be lower to the ground and lighter than an SUV so that you would use a lower stand with less weight capacity. A large truck or SUV will require a taller stand so that you can get under the wheels to work under the car properly. This is especially imperative if the vehicle is lifted.
While jack stands are relatively simple tools, there are vast differences in the quality of their build. Choosing a stand that is made from high-quality materials is imperative for safety. It’s also easier to buy a well-made stand once than purchasing a poorly made one several times as they wear out or break down. Selecting a stand that is rust and corrosive resistant can also be helpful in wetter climates.
In closing, using a jack stand during automotive work is the best way to ensure you and your vehicle stay safe. With so many options available it can be confusing to pick the best one for your needs. By focusing on the weight and size of your car, you can quickly determine which stands will work best for you.
Been doing a bit more in the garage at home and now need to buy some jack stands. So what do you guys recommend? I cant get ESCO 3 Ton Flat Top Jack Stands so I still have a college student budget.
Please read my post and just make sure all the welds look good and the capacity is higher than what your car weighs.
Harbor freight is good enough.
On jack stands, I much prefer the build quality of the 3 ton stands I have, over the 2 ton stands I also got. Again, getting tools that are over-rated for your job is the safest bet.
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