As you deliberate on the right jack stand for your needs, some factors that are likely to influence your decision include the tool’s durability and ease of use. You may also take into account the purpose of the equipment. When choosing jack stands, here are the qualities you need to look for:
Weight Capacity
Jack stands vary based on their weight capacity, which is rated in tons. When using a jack stand, you must never exceed its weight capacity rating. As you review different stands, select one that exceeds the weight of your vehicle. This provides an additional margin of safety. Check the weight of your vehicle and take into account that the distribution of weight is not uniform across the semi-tractor. Round up the weight of your vehicle and compare it with the load limits on the stand.
Build Quality
A good stand should have a uniform, smooth finish that has full coverage. A smooth finish gives the stand adequate resistance to corrosion and rust. Some stands have a powder coating to enhance rust protection. Inspect the legs of the stand to check for any signs of deformation or bends as these issues compromise safety.
You can also look for gaps or cracks, as these issues point to a low build quality. Check the quality of the welds, making sure that the weld beads are even and clean. Manufacturers use different materials to craft jack stands, such as aluminum and steel. Steel stands are heavy, while those made of aluminum are lighter and more portable.
Inspect the jack stand for side-to-side movement at the saddle and center column. Pronounced side-to-side movements at these points can cause your vehicle to wobble while you work. A reliable stand has minimal side-to-side movements at different height settings, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Safety Mechanisms
A high-standard jack stand needs to include safety features, such as a locking mechanism. Some manufacturers integrate additional metal pins or dual lock pins to complement locking mechanisms. Additional pins serve as a supportive tool to prevent slipping.
If you work with semi-tractors, you may need jack stands that feature heavier holding pins compared to those of other vehicles. Even with such safety mechanisms, you need to follow the appropriate safety protocols to utilize the jack stand properly. Some situations require that you use two jacks simultaneously to avoid side tipping. As you settle on the right stand for your needs, look for one that has precise saw teeth on the control arm. A jack stand with clear and precise teeth may help reduce the likelihood of accidents, increasing safety.
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Height Adjustability
Some stands have adjustable heights and utilize a locking mechanism that helps you keep the chosen setting in place as you work. Choose a jack stand with a height setting that allows you to work comfortably underneath your vehicle. You can review the highest and lowest points of your vehicle and use that estimation to determine what kind of jack stand you need.
Size of the Base
The size of the base frame influences the stability of your stand. A larger surface area at the base frame translates to more stability under the load. Evaluate the size of the base frame and how far the legs are spread out to determine if the stand will support your vehicle.
Get High-quality Jack Stands
Evaluate several of these factors when choosing the right stand for your vehicle needs. You can also assess if the saddle at the top can accommodate the size of the axle and frame rails you work with. Get your stand from reputable companies if you want a tool that will give you long-term service.
