Floor jacks

[Insomniator]

I want a basic 2 ton floor jack to change the tires on my mini... I don't really want to spend 100's on a 'real' jack but reviews for every $25 walmart or harbor freight one just say they leak fluid all over the place and don't work.

Is there any jack that's in the $100 range that is a little better or is it all or nothing?

 

[7window]

I bought a 2 ton craftsman on sale for 15$ 10 years ago and hasnt failed me yet. Even has a case.

 

[Jimzz]

This one is ok for a smaller basic jack.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Torin-Jack...-Jack/14560042

Check out craigslist many sell jacks when they move or upgrade. Or spend a little extra and get one that will last and work well. Costco has a great aluminum one for $99.99 right now. It replaced the steel heavy duty one they had before.

 

[Vdubchaos]

I have a cheap one too from Walmart that served me for 10+ years.

NOTE: use it for LIFTING ONLY and DO NOT rely on it as a safety measure. Use Jack Stands whenever you put ANY part of your body under the car.

Still use Floor Jack as 2nd safety measure. Tire/rim as 3rd and another body standing by as 4th.

maybe for changing wheels that's a bit too much, BUT when you get your head/body under the car I highly recommend you take as many safety precautions as possible.

 

[Scarpozzi]

I think your problem is you're going to small. A 2 ton jack would be fine if you're talking about a bottle jack. For a floor jack, I'd look for a 3-4 ton jack. Stability in these goes a long way and you won't get good wheels and a good base with a 2 ton jack. (my opinion) I have a cheap 2 ton jack now and will soon be upgrading now that I built a garage. I couldn't find the brand my father has...but he has a pretty decent one....it's very heavy and difficult to move...exactly what a floor jack should be. Here are some around $100 that I would consider if buying online:

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-3-ton...2&blockType=G2

http://www.amazon.com/Powerbuilt-620...oor+jack+4+ton

 

[Insomniator]

Thanks guys I picked up a 2 1/2 ton craftsman from Sears and it seems to work well. If it breaks fast I'll go ahead and pick up a better model.

But damn... the lugnuts are NOT coming off. Whoever the hell tightened them did some job. Will need to bring it somewhere...

 

[96Firebird]

But damn... the lugnuts are NOT coming off. Whoever the hell tightened them did some job. Will need to bring it somewhere...

Don't have a breaker bar? Stick a long pipe on the end of the tire iron/wrench/whatever you're using for more leverage.

Make sure you break them all before you jack up the car, I hate when I forget to do this...

 

[Insomniator]

Don't have a breaker bar? Stick a long pipe on the end of the tire iron/wrench/whatever you're using for more leverage.

Make sure you break them all before you jack up the car, I hate when I forget to do this...

Yeah no bar... could actually try the bar that came with the jack. The freaking wrench was bending though.

 

[phucheneh]

Unless you're going with an expensive 'shop grade' jack, I really don't think there's a lot of difference. Stuff from Sears, various parts stores, Harbor Freight, ect probably isn't go to have a whole lot of difference (assuming you're talking about the same size/style). Some may operate a little smoother, or have better castors or whatever. But the difference between working and not working is in the hydraulic cylinder...and they're all going to be Chinese. FWIW cheap jacks seem to hold up a lot longer than they used to. One big question is if it craps out, is it possible (or just cost-effective) to replace the cylinder, or do you just chuck the thing and get a new one?

If I was eyeing one of the nicer 'consumer-grade' jacks...something in the $150-200 range, maybe...I'd want to know that it won't be scrap metal if a seal starts leaking.