If you own a type of car, you will know that you will have to change the tire occasionally. Whether it's due to a puncture, an accident, or perhaps just normal car maintenance, you need the right resources for the process. Since most cars are relatively heavy machines, weighing in the hundreds if not thousands of pounds, you need to make good decisions. When changing the wheels on your car, you will benefit highly when you have one of the best scissor jacks on the market.
These are convenient mechanical tools, which help you lift the undercarriage of your car. That said, there are many different types, and with as many various features that you should consider. Being able to consider these features ensures that you get the correct tool for the job. Below is a comprehensive guide to help get you started:
How to Buy the Best Scissor Jack
Height Clearance
Height clearance is a crucial factor to consider when buying scissor jacks. If your chosen jack does not fit under the vehicle, then it won’t be able to lift it. Sure, you might be able to drive your car onto a ramp or even stacked boards to get more clearance – but this is often considered unsafe. A better option would be to get a jack that offers optimal height clearance to let it fit under your vehicle.
Even the large steel jacks have a specific weight limit. Start by checking the weight of your vehicle on the car documents, or perhaps use the internet. Most car jacks have weights specified in tons, with one tone being equal to 2000 pounds.
Max Lift Height
The maximum lift height determines whether the jack is suitable for your car. If the jack fails to lift your car enough, you won’t be able to get enough space to remove or replace the wheels. Usually, the ideal lift height averages 18 inches or higher. Thus, this is why you have to evaluate the structure of your car before getting a scissor jack for your needs.
Also, the jack should be stable regardless of the nature of the surface. Whether you are changing the tire on a flat side of the road or just tinkering in the garage, the jack should be stable at all times. For roadside maintenance, go for scissor jacks, that have an extra-wide base, or one that can sit on paved surfaces.
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Jack Construction
The design structure of your chosen scissor jack is also crucial. You want a heavy-duty unit that will not only withstand the weight of your car but also provides longevity benefits. Usually, steel jacks are made using aluminum alloys, which is both lightweight and durable.
Also, jack construction is not the only factor you will have to consider. You will also have to evaluate the platform size of the jack and the size of jack pads as well. The jacks that have wider platforms tend to be stable, and suitable for use underneath vehicles.
Pump Stroke
Another crucial factor to consider is how easy it is to get the jack to full height. Simply put, how much effort is it going to take before you can get the jack to its full height. Some scissor jacks even come with Rapid Pump Technology, which helps to improve the jack height significantly. The ideal pump stroke helps to reduce the amount of effort required to lift the jack stand for your needs.
Remember to also check the distance from the ground to the undercarriage of your vehicle. Whether your car sits high up or sits low, you need a portable jack that can reach the lower section of your car. It should also raise it high enough for you to start the repair process.
Most scissor jacks can lift your vehicle, on average, one foot off the ground. This is adequate room for you to change a tire, but not sufficient for you to get under the car.
Safety Mechanism
Fortunately, most scissor jacks brands recognize the importance of safety when it comes to using weight lifting mechanisms. That said, some types don’t have this safety feature, and this particularly true for the poorly made jacks. Thus, ensure you check the scissor jack for useful features such as lock mechanisms for ease of use.
Floor Jack Safety
Now that we have covered all the crucial aspects of buying a suitable jack, it's now time to discuss jack safety issues. It’s vital to practice safety, mainly because you will likely be working underneath the structure of your car. The following are some critical factors for you to consider:
- Get a suitable jack for the weight of your car
- Never exceed the weight capacity of your chosen jack
- Only raise your vehicle on a level or flat surface
- Ensure that you read all the instructions before using the jack
- Never drop the jack, because this can damage the internal components
- Keep all parts and components in the jack lubricated before use
- Discontinue jack use if you notice any damage parts or components
- Never use a jack in poor weather conditions
- If the load of the car shifts, stop utilizing the jack
While this is a relatively large list, these are just some of the few key factors you should consider when using scissor jacks. Ensure you practice all the possible safety techniques before using the jack to ensure ease of use. Using a car jack is a delicate process that requires the correct methods to achieve the best results.
Scissor Jack FAQ
Q. What size is best for my car?
A. It all depends on the weight of the car. It's best that you go for scissor jacks, which can lift a little more weight, that your car's weight. If the car weighs over 2,500 pounds, then a two-ton jack is suitable.
Q. What’s the difference between a floor jack and a trolley jack?
A. Floor and trolley jacks might be similar, but they also have several differences. The trolley and floor jacks both lie flat, and they can also roll on the undercarriage. More so, they are also suitable for garages and serious car maintenance.
Trolley jacks will generally lift heavy cars and are less portable. That said, they cost less, and are way easy to set up, making them ideal for roadside use.
Q. Can you use any jack in any car?
A. No, go for a jack that fits the structure of your car. Usually, a two-ton jack is great enough for small cars such as sedans. However, trucks might require something larger
Top 8 Scissor Jack Reviews 2021
LIBRA Set of 4 5000lbs RV Trailer...
You are one step away from owning a full-fledged car repair kit. Yes, with the LIBRA Set of 4 5000lbs stabilizers( our top choice for best scissor jacks), you have the perfect way of lifting your car from the ground. With its exceptional weight capacity, this unit is ideal for use on many different types of vehicles. This unit will stabilize and level your RV/Trailer, and it also stays steady on most surfaces, all thanks to its wide bow tie base. The entire set even features four steel scissor jacks and one crank hole to make it easy to set up on most car types.
There is nothing better than when you have a safe resource for your unique car repair needs. Yes, when lifting your car, you need a reliable tool, which can withstand the weight and keep you safe at all times. This is what you can expect when using the LIBRA Set of 5,000lbs RV trailer jacks. This unit stays stable, regardless of the nature of the floor surface.
You will also appreciate the anti-rollback design, which ensures the scissor jack never breaks down due to the weight of your car.
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Arcan ALJ3T 3-Ton Quick Rise Aluminum...
The Arcan ALJ3R IS A 3-ton quick rise aluminum floor jack, perfect for lifting various types of vehicles. Made using lightweight and aircraft grade material, this unit allows for convenient maneuverability each time. It even features dual pump pistons, which can quickly raise the floor jack saddle and load. The reinforced lift arm improved strength, chassis torsion control, and also offers durability.
Equipped with a rubber saddle and foam handle bumper, you have optimal protection for your vehicle. The inclusion of a side mount handle makes it easy to place the jack for your needs conveniently. With a convenient 2-piece handle, the scissor jack is easy to set up and store. The scissor jack even comes with bypass and overload valves, which will prevent overextension of the hydraulic ram and jack. The scissor jack also complies with various safety standards for lifting equipment.
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Other Top Picks
Pro-Lift F-767 Grey Low Profile Floor Jack - 2 Ton Capacity
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Pro-Lift F-767 Grey Low Profile Floor...
Are you tired of having to borrow scissor jacks every time you want to repair your car? Well, we highly recommend the Pro-Lift F-767 Low Profile Jack as an excellent recommendation for your needs. This unit has a new low profile, which makes it easy to use even on low vehicles. Furthermore, the inclusion of patented bypass devices does well to protect the device against over pumping for safe operation.
Safety should be an important factor to consider when you want to get a proper scissor jack for your needs. It ensures the unit sits stable on the ground for car repair purposes. The in-built safety valve also provides overload protection and ensures the scissor jack is rust free as well. With heavy-duty steel construction, you are sure of a scissor jack that provides optimal longevity.
The F-767 Low Profile jack even features a bypass device, that helps to protect against issues such as over-pumping. With a lifting range of between 3-1/2 to 14 inches, this unit is perfect for lifting various types of vehicles. It even comes with a patented bypass device, that helps to protect against overpumping.
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everbest4u Scissor Jack 1.5T Car Scissor Jack
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everbest4u Scissor Jack 1.5T Car Scissor...
The everbest4u Scissor Jack is also an excellent recommendation for your car repair needs. The scissor jack has an exceptional load capacity of 3300lbs, to make it ideal for use on various types of vehicles. Made using high quality and superior steel material, this scissor jack provides many years of reliable performance.
The everbest4u scissor jack can also perform 360-degree rotation, to make it easy to operate and highly convenient for indoor use. It even comes with a durable revolving shaft, with consistent human mechanics. Thus, the scissor jack will help to save your effort and improve your overall work efficiency levels. Thanks to the convenient threaded bearing, you are sure of a highly durable addition to your car maintenance regimen. This scissor jack also features screws as fixing, thus making it hard to deform or disperse.
Each joint is made using high quality steel and high precision grinding technology to make it ideal for your car. The makers of this unit have also done well to include a convenient on/off button. You just press the button to switch this unit on and off conveniently. Even more, these best scissor jacks lets you easily and safely lift the vehicle to your suited height levels. The wide and heavy-duty base offers stability, and strength, especially in case of dumping.
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LEADBRAND Black Steel Scissor Jack, 2.5 tons (5,511lbs) Capacity
LEADBRAND Black Steel Scissor Jack, 2.5...
Are you searching for the perfect way to improve the functionality of your car? Well, we highly recommend the LEADBRAND BLACK steel scissor jacks, which are an exceptional 5-ton capacity. This scissor jack has a lift range that averages between 3 to 17 inches, to make it ideal for your car repair needs. Even more, the oversized base width offers optimal support and stability, regardless of the ground surface.
The LEADBRAND has also done well to make this unit using a heavy-duty steel frame and saddle, to make it comfortable for car lifting applications. It even comes with a ratchet handle and strength saving design for your convenience. The compact size and small volume also make the scissor jack easy to preserve.
While this unit weighs 8lbs, it's compact without causing any compromise on car repair performance and one of the best scissor jacks. Compared to the conventional hydraulic hack, this best scissor jack is highly convenient and easy to use.
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Eaz-Lift 48830 Pack of 2 24" RV Stabilizing Scissor Jack
Eaz-Lift 48830 Pack of 2 24" RV...
Make it easy to repair your car when you have the right resources, such as the Eaz Lift 48830 scissor jack. More so, this unit effortlessly stabilizes RVs, and it has an exceptional 7500lb load capacity. Designed to be easy to install, this unit allows either bolt on and weld on installation procedures. It's even height adjustable, and you can adjust it from 4-3/8-inches high to 23-3/4-inches. The entire set is available with a scissor jack and socket for the power drill to make things convenient for your needs.
The Scissor jack is available in 20, 24- and 30-inch heights, to make it ideal for different applications. There is nothing better than when you have a scissor jack, which will easily lift your car from the ground Yes, that is what you should expect when using the Eaz-lift 48830 Scissor Jack. You can use it on your RV, trailer jack, car jack, and most vehicles. Designed to support pop-ups, trailers, and various other large cars, this unit is highly reliable for your needs. It also has a durable construction, which features heavy-duty steel and powder coated material to resist corrosion and rust.
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Torin Big Red Steel Scissor Jack, 1.5 Ton (3,000 lb) Capacity
Torin Big Red Steel Scissor Jack, 1.5...
Owning the correct care repair mechanisms should be an essential priority. Thus, this is why the Torin Big Red Steel Scissor Jack is an excellent recommendation. these scissor jacks have a collapsible and compact design that makes it easy to store in the trunk of your car. Furthermore, this unit has an exceptional lifting range of between 4-1/8" to 15-1/8" with a 1.5 ton with an outstanding (3,000 lb) capacity to match.
Thanks to the red steel finish on this unit, you are sure of an appealing addition to your car storage regime. While this unit has heavy duty design, it is compact and does not mind getting tossed around the trunk of your car.
The Steel Scissor Jack is also made using forged alloy steel for durability and exceptional quality. These scissor jacks even feature an extra-wide base, which offers added strength and stability. Thanks to the 1-piece handle, you can be sure on the spot quick responses and speed benefits.
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Quick Products QP-RVJ-S24 RV Stabilizing and Leveling Scissor Jack
Quick Products QP-RVJ-S24 RV Stabilizing...
We are all tired of having to wake up in the RV when someone moves. More so, we are all tired of borrowing car parts from the neighbor. Stop such issues when you have the Quick Products QP-RVJ-S24 Stabilizing Scissor jack. This jack is raised underneath your car, and it offers optimal support benefits. With an exceptional 24-inch reach, this jack does well to keep your vehicle steady at all times. More so, the jack has an outstanding 5,000 lb. Capacity to make it ideal for permanently raising your car on flat surfaces.
The best part about using these scissor jacks is that they're simple to set up and use. The jack also has a highly stable design, which makes it ideal for use on different types of ground surfaces. You can use small and large vehicles that have an average weight of 5,000lbs in weight.
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Finally
When it comes to maintaining optimal car performance and safety, there are various vital factors to consider. You need the correct resources and techniques to ensure you perform convenient maintenance procedures each time. Thus, with one of the best scissor jacks on the market, you have a suitable addition to your car repair regimen. These are powerful and easy to use tools, which you can use to lift heavy cars with ease.
We have prepared this list and a comprehensive guide to help get you started in choosing the best scissor jacks. When you have the right jack, performing car maintenance becomes easy.