Review of 10 types of best jacks: how to choose, pros and cons

How to choose a jack

To be able to choose a lifting mechanism for your car yourself, you need to go through several steps, paying attention to the key points and ignoring minor details.

Load capacity

Each model is designed to work with a load of a certain weight, therefore it is impossible to exceed the value specified in the model description under any circumstances.

Violation of this condition can lead not only to equipment failure, but also to damage to the vehicle.

That is why the first rule when buying: correct calculation of the actual weight of the car (you need to take into account the weight with cargo in the trunk: spare wheel, tools, fire extinguisher, etc.).

Lifting height

This characteristic indicates the maximum height to which the machine can be raised. Most models and product lines are designed, on average, for 30-50 cm.

This value is quite enough to replace a failed wheel, or to gain access to the handbrake cable. Some types of mechanisms make it possible to lift a load to a height of about 100 centimeters.

These mechanisms are mainly used in a fairly narrow area: in competitions in the wild, when it is necessary to lift massive structures in construction.

Pickup height

This expression denotes a parameter that indicates the distance between the ground and the bottom of the car. The pickup size, depending on the model, is 6-25 cm.

Here you should take into account the vehicle's ground clearance - what motorists call ground clearance.

The easiest way to choose a lifting device is if you have an SUV or a car with increased ground clearance, since any type of jack is suitable for this vehicle.

The most difficult task faces owners of cars whose ground clearance is less than 15 cm, since it is quite difficult to choose a lifting mechanism for them.

Some models have such a characteristic as the working stroke of the jack. This distance from the pick-up point to the maximum lift height is the height at which you can work.

The wider the height range, the more functional the mechanism. It can be used for more cars.

type of drive

Lifting mechanisms have another important difference: they are activated in different ways.

Mechanics

Lifting is carried out by applying force to the handle. These devices are suitable for infrequent use, such as changing a tire on the road.

This is a fairly inexpensive option, suitable for passenger cars. Using them in a workshop or garage is ineffective.

Hydraulics

It is activated in a manner similar to the previous type, but the user will have to apply less effort. The load rises under the pressure created by the working fluid, which pushes out the plunger with a fixed load.

Pneumatics

These mechanisms operate on compressed air. In workshops, pneumatic networks are used; an automobile exhaust pipe or a gas cylinder should be connected to the “field.”

The chamber, filling with air, expands, lifting the car like an air cushion. Minimal effort required. Such devices lead to a reduction in labor costs and a rapid rise.

Having approached this stage, you need to understand how often the device will be used. If you decide to buy a jack “just in case,” there is no point in using expensive hydraulic devices, since it will not be possible to use the full potential of the mechanism.

If you have a workshop, choose pneumatics or hydraulics - this increases the speed of maintenance while making the work easier.

Mechanism brand

There is an opinion that you should only buy branded products.

The most important thing that you can count on in this case is full compliance of the parameters specified in the accompanying documents with those that the mechanism will show in reality.

Manufacturers who care about their image are required to carry out the necessary tests, so you can be sure that if a load capacity of 2 tons is indicated, this is exactly how much the jack will lift.

Equally important is the high quality of the materials from which it is made. All parts of the device fit perfectly, all connections are securely fixed.

Branded mechanisms show excellent results, they are not subject to rust, their movement is smooth, and they do not bend under heavy loads.

Unnamed models or unknown brands, according to practice, fail quite quickly - often after the first use.

Experienced motorists do not recommend repairing these models, as this can lead to tragic consequences. It is better to buy a new device from a trusted manufacturer to be sure of its quality.

Companies guarantee 1-3 years of proper operation - another argument in favor of reputable manufacturers.

When choosing a jack, it is very important to consider each of the steps. At the same time, you need to know that indicators such as the make of the car, the country of origin of the jack, or, moreover, the color of the mechanism, have no role when choosing a model of a lifting device.

The weight and dimensions of the structure are of some importance, since not every model can be placed in a passenger car. However, this is not the most significant characteristic of the mechanism.

To be fully prepared when choosing a jack, you should familiarize yourself with the best models of each type.

What to look for when choosing a jack

When choosing a model, it is important to take into account its technical features.

Mechanism type

Mechanics, hydraulics and pneumatics determine not only ease of use. Reliability also depends on the type of mechanism, so hydraulic models are preferred for massive cars (crossovers and SUVs). But you can change a wheel on a passenger car using a diamond screw mechanism.

Jack lifting capacity

The weight that the device can support is indicated in the manufacturer's specifications. And if the manufacturer claims a load capacity of 1.3 tons, this means that by adding even a little extra weight, you can lose the jack and seriously damage the car. Therefore, when purchasing, you need to give preference to models with a reserve carrying capacity: if the car weighs 1.5 tons, choose a model that can withstand 1.8–2 tons. For SUVs, models with a carrying capacity of 3.5–4 tons are optimal.

Pickup height

This is the minimum height at which the device must “pick up” the car and lift it. The parameter is determined by the vehicle's ground clearance, but is not equal to it. When calculating, it is important to take into account that the clearance is determined taking into account the height of the inflated tires, and if the wheel is flat, then it becomes lower by the height of the tire.

If the car’s ground clearance is 160 mm, then the pickup height should be 100–110 mm, no more. Rhombic and rolling devices have the minimum parameters. For bottle ones, the pick-up height is usually greater - from 170 mm. Therefore, such jacks are not suitable for cars with low ground clearance.

Jack lifting height

This is the maximum power reserve by which the device can lift the car. At the same time, it is important to understand that if you jack up the car by 50 mm, this does not always mean that the wheel will leave the ground: the suspension will not allow it. Therefore, the minimum height stated by the manufacturer should be 300 mm.

It would be correct to follow the principle “the more the merrier”, especially for cars with high ground clearance. For crossovers and SUVs, there is no point in choosing a jack that is not capable of lifting the car up to 400 mm. Such indicators are demonstrated by rolling and bottle models.

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Type of lifting platform

Manufacturers usually mark the location for installing the stop at the bottom of the car with arrows. This is a strong area of the body that will withstand the pressure of the jack, so the lifting mechanism must be installed here. The compact platform of a rhombic or bottle mechanism, as a rule, fits into the space specified by the manufacturer, but a rolling jack covers a larger area or rests against the edge of the fastening.

To evenly distribute the load, when using a rolling mechanism, you need to use a special rubber pad. It is also useful for lifting an “aged” car with a bottle unit: the telescopic rod of such a device can push through or pierce a corroded body. The rubber pad will eliminate this risk.

Advice . The jack is used only to lift, but not to hold the car. To perform long-term work, it is necessary to install special supports - tripods - under the power elements of the bottom. If the jack operates under load for a long time, it will quickly fail. There is a high risk that this will happen during the repair process, and then the damage to the car may be significant.

The best rolling jack

Hydraulic rolling jack MATRIX MASTER 51028 .
Rolling devices are in high demand, and for good reason: they are easy to operate, they are compact, and convenient to store thanks to the case included in the kit. All this applies to this type of jack with hydraulics. Best suited for lifting passenger cars.

The model is equipped with a valve that protects the device from overload. Excellent not only for a private garage, but also for work in auto repair shops.

The size of the lever allows you to apply a minimum of effort. The model has a rigid frame, thanks to which the device can withstand high loads.

The jack is supplied with a plastic case in which it is convenient to store the device. There is a PRO sign on the box, which indicates the possibility of use at a professional level.

Characteristics:

Load capacity – 2 tons
Weight – 12.8 kg
Pickup height – 13.5 cm
Lifting height – 38.5 cm
Set contents: jack and shield.
Packaging dimensions – 23.0*15.0*57.0 cm.

The homeland of the brand is Germany, while manufacturing is carried out in China. A dealer certificate is included with the product.

Pros: The advantages of the model include:

hydraulic type;
reliability;
presence of a convenient case;
repair kit;
weight;
price;
high quality material from which the jack is made.

Minuses:

The disadvantages of this model, according to reviews, include its price and weight. It is better not to use it without a threshold stand.

Reviews about the design of this model indicate that it is the best in its class. It consistently lifts cars; the hydraulic drive allows for a minimum of effort.

The best electric jacks

Varta V-CJ2.10

This model is capable of raising the car body to a height of up to 400 mm. At the same time, it does not require any labor from a person, since the jack runs on electricity. A wired remote control, additionally equipped with backlight, is used for control.

Advantages:

Does not require effort from a person;
Availability of a wired remote control;
The lifting height reaches 400 mm;
The remote control is backlit;
Load capacity is 2 tons;
Power supply from the vehicle's on-board network;
Possibility of replacing fuses.

Flaws:

Lack of distribution in stores.

Reviews of the Varta V-CJ2.10 show that people like the unit they are purchasing. This is a rare case when the jack is supplied in a suitcase, thanks to which it stands out in the trunk against the background of all the rubbish that may be present there. It is also impossible not to note the existing remote control, which is backlit - this makes it easier to work in the dark somewhere on a country road.

Best hydraulic jack

SOROKIN HobbyLine Jack
jacks have a greater load capacity than devices with other types of drive.
However, bottle jacks can only be transported in an upright position, making them difficult to transport, limiting them to garage use only.

This model is convenient for individuals to use for working in garages. They pick up cars very quickly for subsequent servicing or repairs.

The convenient handle makes it possible to install the mechanism in any convenient place without wasting energy. A comfortable pedal allows you to raise the support platform.

The compactness, mobility, and reliability of this model allow this model to be the most popular among car enthusiasts of all categories. The series devices are used for daily work. Not recommended for professional purposes.

The mechanism is not designed to hold loads. Safety stands and parking shoes should be used to secure the lifted load. In addition, you must use a rubber heel pad.

When choosing a jack, you should keep in mind the minimum height that allows you to place the jack under a car with a flat tire. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the maximum stroke of the jack rod, which will make it possible to hang the car wheel for replacement.

The device can only be operated on level areas. Characteristics:

Load capacity – 3 tons
Pickup height – 14 cm
Lifting height – 43 cm
Pad diameter – 5.2 cm
Length – 120 cm
Weight – 19 kg
Packaging 66*28.5*17.5 cm

Pros: Buyers of a hydraulic jack note its undeniable advantages:

smooth ride;
fast rise;
high efficiency;
fixation accuracy;
Suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance;
maneuverability and relatively low weight;
reliable braking of the jack.

Cons: Despite many positive qualities, this jack has several disadvantages:

cardboard box;
plastic handle;
no rubber pad.

What types of jacks are there: description and characteristics

What types are they divided into?
When choosing a long or short jack, you should determine in advance the required performance characteristics. Auto repair shops require some models, and private enterprises require others. Initially, you need to determine the maximum load capacity.

When choosing a specific model, this figure should be 10-15% higher. This way you can extend the service life.

The room temperature should be checked regularly. This indicator can have a negative impact on the quality of the working fluid.

Based on these characteristics, it is possible to select the following types of hydraulic jack for the working machine:

the rolling type is equipped with a frame on which the entire portable mechanism is located. The load can be lifted thanks to the action of a hydraulic piston on the lever system. The equipment is equipped with special wheels. When lifting a load, their displacement occurs relative to the frame, since the full load falls on it;
drive type - bottle. This design with the working cylinder is vertical. This model is mainly distinguished by its small size. A load of up to 12 tons will be lifted by a jack;
drive type - manual or electric. The working fluid is pumped according to the principle of a mechanical lever. To enhance the development effect or lift a large load, you should use a design that has an electric drive.

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Best rack and pinion jack

The lift of this type of jacks moves vertically.
They have a large load capacity, so they are used mostly for cargo transportation or off-road travel/competition. Using this device, you can lift the car, but you can move it by lifting it and pushing it in the required direction.

Very often it is used as a winch.

HiLift Jack HL604 is made of cast iron, with some parts cast in steel. The jack drive is mechanical. Coated with black powder paint, the working mechanisms are galvanized to avoid corrosion.

The hijack is designed to lift and hold the side of the machine for changing a wheel or performing other work. Picking up can be done using standard parts, a wheel, a cradle or a bumper.

Using additional materials, the jack can be turned into a universal mechanism with which you can pull out fence posts or pull out a car using the jack as a winch.

Indispensable not only off-road, but also far beyond.

The model can be used as a press, including for pulling out body parts.

Characteristics:

Model length – 15.2 cm
Lifting height – 11.43-122.56 cm
Load – 2,113 tons
Traction force – 2.268 tons
Weight – 13.6 kg
Made in USA

How the jack works

Having figured out what elements the jack consists of, it’s time to find out how this device works. There's really nothing complicated here. The work is based on the principle of communicating vessels:

First of all, install the device on a flat, hard surface.
Next, you need to press a special lever. But first you need to make sure that the valve on the device is in the closed position.
When the jack with the load reaches the required height, the lifting is stopped. In the opposite situation, when you need to lower the system, use the valve of the device, which is smoothly rotated counterclockwise.

Thus, the main working element in this device is a special lever that ensures oil pumping. During movement, it begins to influence the piston, which, in turn, produces a lift. The oil cannot return back because the discharge and suction valves prevent it.

Jacks can be used for more than just lifting loads. With their help, you can perform pressing, bending, and other related work. When solving such problems, a protective thread must be installed. To perform the operation more accurately, you can calibrate the force. Special pressure gauges allow you to select the appropriate pressure.

This is the principle of operation of jacks. It is the same for all devices, regardless of their design. Anyone can learn how to operate such a mechanism. Of course, there may be some difficulties for the first time. However, if you learn in advance about the features of a particular type of jack, then everything becomes much simpler.

Best bottle jack

One of the most popular types of jacks is the bottle jack.
From the name it is clear that it is shaped like a bottle. It has another name - vertical. These garage equipment are smooth running, easy to use and can lift fairly heavy loads. The main advantage over other types of jacks is increased load capacity combined with compactness.

Model AutoprpfiDG-08 – bottle jack with hydraulic drive. It quickly and easily copes with lifting loads to a height of about 40.5 cm.

When folded, the mechanism does not exceed 20 cm. The reliable design does not require special care, ensuring its operation in any situation. The device has a bypass valve that allows overload up to 25%.

In this case, the valve does not allow the operation of a product whose load is significantly exceeded.

The jack is used only for lifting - other devices must support the weight.

Use on flat surfaces. After lifting, secure the car with safety supports. AutoprpfiDG-08 makes it possible to lift up to 8 tons of cargo.

With its help, commercial and passenger vehicles are lifted and used for rigging and construction work.

It should be borne in mind that this model is not suitable for cars whose ground clearance is less than 20 cm. Owners of SUVs and crossovers will be happy if they buy the AutoprpfiDG-08, because its carrying capacity is enough even for a loaded Gazelle.

Excellent performance in operation, even despite belonging to the economy class: reliable processing of the hydraulic cylinder prevents untimely wear of the cuffs, the valve does not allow them to be squeezed out when the permissible load is exceeded.

A metal heel can cause complaints - in order to preserve the coating from corrosion or paint, you need to take a responsible approach to choosing a lining.

Characteristics:

Load capacity – 8 tons
Lifting height – 40.5 cm
Pickup height – 20 cm
Height – 20 cm
Bypass valve - yes
Material – metal
Weight – 12.5 kg.

Pros:

hydraulic drive;
acceptable price;
reliability;
durability;
load capacity;
convenience.

Minuses:

The main disadvantage of the model (as well as the whole type of jacks) is the need for transportation in a vertical state. This makes transportation not very convenient, but when working in the garage there is no equal model.

Possible breakdowns, how to fix them yourself, where to go for repair services

Structural breakdowns - repair service
The similarity of the designs of various jacks allows us to identify the most typical faults inherent in most of these units. The main signs of their manifestation are the following:

After completing the process of raising the load to the required height, a spontaneous slow lowering begins (the load is not fixed at the desired point).
There is a complete inability to lift the permissible load to the required height.
Incomplete return of the jack rod to its original position.

All these malfunctions appear due to the release of the corresponding elements of the jack design.

The first type of malfunction occurs due to loss of performance of cuffs and seals. During use, they lose their elasticity. This leads to loss of tightness. As a result, dirt and moisture enter the work area, which can lead to corrosion.

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It affects the internal walls of the housing, the surface of the retractable piston, the internal walls of pipelines, and elements of the manual and hydraulic control system. To find the place of corrosion formation, it is necessary to disassemble the entire jack and carefully examine all structural elements.

Note!

If the spring does not return to its original position, this is evidence of worn-out springs. The manifestation of such malfunctions allows us to draw an unambiguous conclusion - the pneumohydraulic jack intended for a passenger car needs to be repaired.

In addition to hidden faults, obvious ones can also be observed. They can be determined visually - this is a deformation of the rod, an oil leak. A decrease in the oil level in the working area leads to the entry of atmospheric air into it. As a result, it is not possible to create the necessary pressure to ensure the declared characteristics. Sometimes this deficiency (low oil level) occurs as a result of so-called natural loss. Elimination of this malfunction is carried out by simply adding oil to the jack system. However, it should be remembered that after this operation it is necessary to carry out bleeding.

Best inflatable jack

This type is designed for lifting loads whose weight does not exceed 4 tons.
Especially loved by fishermen, hunters and other off-road travelers. Compared to other types, these have clear advantages:

compactness - when assembled, the pump easily fits into a bag located in a small bag;
ease of use on uneven surfaces (suitable for snow, off-road, mud);
Possibility of investing in a small ground clearance - about 2mm.

An inflatable jack is a cushion placed under any part of the load. After this, the cushion is filled with air or car gases, due to which lifting occurs.

Air Jack is the most reliable and fastest mechanism for lifting a car out of snow, sand or mud. To inflate it, you need to use a six-meter pipe connected to the exhaust pipe or a 12-volt compressor.

Made from high quality nylon, which is coated outside and inside with PVC. Thanks to this design, the car rises as if on its own. The lifting height reaches 85 cm, the jack is capable of lifting up to 4 tons.

The device is only suitable as a lifting force. A jack is used to change a tire or pull a car out of a difficult place. For proper use, please read the instructions.

The design of the device has been improved; it consists of several layers. The jack helps to quickly raise the car. It is easy to use and does not damage the vehicle, as is often the case with rack-and-pinion jacks.

Spikes on the bottom prevent the jack from slipping.

The jack is supplied complete with a bag for transportation, a 6-meter hose, a repair kit, mats (for the bottom and the ground), a connector for the compressor, gloves and other parts.

Characteristics:

Load capacity – 4 tons;
Pickup height – 7.5 cm
Lifting height – 66.5 cm
Weight – 5 kg
Conical outlet to exhaust pipe

Pros: The model, suitable for work in the field, has a number of advantages:

compact dimensions;
convenient inflation hose, resistant to caustic gases;
presence of a transport bag;
high load capacity;
Ease of use;
the presence of anti-slip spikes;
light weight;
Possibility to choose orange or red color of the pillow.

The disadvantage when using it is that it can only be used to lift a car.

Jack selection criteria

When purchasing this lifting tool, you need to pay attention to its technical characteristics:

Load capacity.
Maximum lifting height.
Smallest pickup point.
Tool weight.
Sustainability.
Versatility.

Types of jacks and their purpose

The operating principle of rhombic devices is based on the fact that the rotation of the screw on the pin sets the support platform in motion, lifting the load, thus turning rotational movements into translational ones.
The supporting posts in this product are hinged. When operating the lever, the angle between the supporting structures changes, and the load begins to rise. Light weight and compactness, as well as the ability to work with cars with low ground clearance, make this type of jack very popular. Disadvantage: low load capacity.

Rack and pinion car jacks have a very simple design. The lifting tool consists of a vertical rail. The grab handle moves up and down along the rack teeth or holes using a handle. The lock prevents the load from falling.

Such a mechanism also lifts a truck, as it has a large load capacity. It is necessary to observe safety precautions, since the small support area makes the jack unstable; a support must be placed under the raised car.

In a hydraulic auto jack, work occurs due to liquid (oil). By pumping oil into the working cylinder, pressure is created and the rod rises. The check valve prevents liquid from flowing in the opposite direction while holding the load. In order to lower the working piston, it is necessary to unscrew the screw, at this time a special valve opens, and the oil leaves the working cylinder, the load is lowered.

Bottle jacks have a lifting capacity of up to 100 tons with precise fixation. They are used mainly in service stations, but they require constant maintenance and require vertical storage due to oil leaks.

A mechanism with a special fabric cushion, powered by compressed air or exhaust gases, is a pneumatic car jack. The car owner himself makes virtually no effort to work. Gas is supplied from cylinders, and exhaust gases come from the car pipe.

The jack will work in any conditions and on any soil. It is easy to install under the bottom of the car and lift the load to a considerable height. This ensures stable stability of the load.

Car jack

Thus, we can answer the question of which jack is best for a passenger car. A diamond jack will help you out on the road; it is simple to use and light in weight. This type of equipment is used to work with cars with a lifting capacity of 2 tons. To lift a heavier car, you need to use a rack jack or a trolley lift. The hydraulic lifting device is suitable for those who do home repairs. If there is an inspection hole, you can use a bottle jack, and if there is no inspection hole, you can use a rolling lift for passenger cars. For avid travelers, a pneumatic jack that works on any ground is suitable.

Best Diamond Jack

The device consists of levers connected to each other by hinges so that they form a diamond. With this type of connection, the teeth are responsible for the stable position of the jack; with the help of a gear connection, the device holds the load.

Vertical movement is carried out by increasing/decreasing the angles of the parallelogram. These mechanisms are universal, with a rigid structure with a large support plane.

The jacks are compact, take up little space in the luggage compartment, while their load capacity is quite high.

Alca Rhombus , 2 tons - a compact device with a mechanical drive. The design of the equipment is classic and easy to use. The mechanism is designed to lift loads up to 2 tons.

Lifting height – 418 mm, the device is designed for lifting passenger cars with low ground clearance.

The folded mechanism is convenient to store and transport, so this model turns out to be an excellent alternative to the accessory included with the car.

Used on a flat, hard surface. To support the machine in a raised state, it is necessary to use safety supports. In addition to the device, the delivery set includes a handle. Characteristics:

Load capacity – 2 tons
Lifting height – 41.8 cm
Pickup height – 12 cm
Weight 3.38
Manufacturer – China
Box size – 46*13*13

Pros:

reliability;
quality materials;
compactness;
light weight;
Ease of use;
metal thickness;
lifting height.

Minuses

No matter how good the product is, you can find disadvantages:

lack of lubrication;
lack of rubber pad;
uncomfortable handle.

What does the pick-up height affect?

The pick-up height is the minimum value at which the jack begins to work. It is necessary to pay attention to this parameter, because a car with a ground clearance of 170 mm cannot be lifted with a jack with a lifting height of 15 cm. Selecting a suitable jack according to this value is simple: measure the distance to the threshold of the car on a flat road, if it is 150 mm, then the lifting height the lift should be 70-100 mm.