Read the original post 13 Best Low Profile Floor Jack for Workshop and Garage (Review & Buying Guide) on Full Gleam.
Have you ever tried to do maintenance work underneath your car, and find it not elevated high enough for you to access under it? It could be even harder if you owned a very low to the ground vehicles like a sports car. But if you have a low profile jack and a set of car jack stands and wheel dollies, accessing under the car is going to be a breeze.
Working in your garage without a low profile car jack is possible, sure. But it’s going to be difficult. Imagine all the trouble you need to go through just to elevate your car. But using a mechanical tool like a car jack, lifting the car is just a matter of seconds, it’s effortless and safe.
If you’re looking to buy a low profile car jack, you came to the right place. In this article, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best low profile floor jack on the market right now. We’ve also put together a buying guide and FAQ to help you understand which factors to consider when getting a car jack that works best for you.
So, in this article, we’ll explore:
- Best Low Profile Jack
- Considerations When Buying A Low Profile Jack
- What Is A Low Profile Jack?
- How to Use A Low Profile Transmission Jack?
- Why Does A Low Profile Hydraulic Jack Not Stay Up?
- How to Fill Low Profile Jack with Hydraulic Oil?
- How High Can A Low Profile Floor Jack Lift?
- What Is the Best Low Profile Jack?
Also, we’ve written another great article about all the ‘must-have’ mechanic tools you should have in your garage. To learn more, head over to this article: 21 Best Mechanic Tools Must Have in Your Toolbox (Definitive List for 2020).
The Best Low Profile Jack for Your Garage
When it comes to floor jacks, you would want to get one that’s heavy-duty and durable. After all, it will be lifting at least above 3,000lbs. That’s what a midsize car would weight.
Another essential point you want to keep in mind when getting a low profile car jack is its ton capacity. Lifting heavy equipment is your jack’s primary purpose. So, the rule of thumb is higher weight capacity, the better.
In the list and product review below, you will get to see different types of jacks, from floor jacks to jack stands. Read through the list of products below to determine which works best for you.
Now, if you’re not the type who likes to read through reviews but want to know which is the best low profile car jack quickly, then we’d like to recommend the above three best picks.
But, if you want to consider all the purchasing options carefully, there are many options you can choose. We’ve also arranged the floor jacks according to its own category:
| Bottle Jack | Aluminium Jack | 3-Ton Jack |
| Transmission Jack | Jack Stands | Pallet Jack |
To view the car jacks, click on the link and jump straight to the category. But, if you want to see the full list, here are some of the best low profile jack for you to check out:
Low Profile Bottle Jack
You can easily recognize a bottle jack by its cylindrical design. It uses an internal mechanism that creates pressure inside the chamber for it to work.
This type of jack is more compact than other floor jacks and does not feature any wheels. Here are some of the best low profile bottle jacks for you to check it out:
BVA-Hydraulics J1150 Mini Low Profile Bottle Jack
- Low Profile mini jack
- 2 stage handle bar
- Pocket size and light weight
- Convenient for storage
If you want a jack that’s lightweight and compact-sized, then you’d probably like this one from BVA-Hydraulics.
This bottle jack features a low profile design so it can reach down to a height of 2.37 inches. Its maximum height is until 3.13 inches.
It has a 2 stage handlebar and has a stroke of 0.75 inches. This mini jack was created to lift and position loads. However, remember that it wasn’t designed to sustain.
Make sure to partner with appropriate mechanic tools like car jack stands to sustain the lift of your load. Its small size makes it easy to bring along and convenient for storage.
Powerbuilt Alltrade All-in-One Bottle Jack
- Dimensions: 9.75"L x 9.75"W x 12.25"H....
- Safety bar locks unit at desired height. This...
- Portable jack designed to safely Lift and...
- Highly durable. Wide steel base for stability...
Not all bottle jacks can act as an all-in-one product, but this one can. If you’re looking for a high-performing, multi-purpose jack, then this one from Powerbuilt is for you.
This bottle jack features a patented design that combines the applications of a bottle jack, and a jack stands all in one product.
It has a full steel base that stays stable even under load. This highly durable low profile bottle jack is also made to lift heavy weights like your car securely and hold it still.
Only use hydraulic jack fluid. Period. I don’t care what anyone else says about using motor oil, brake fluid, ATF, et cetera. None of those, nothing else, is hydraulic jack fluid. If you wouldn’t put jack oil into your brakes, then you wouldn’t put brake fluid into your jack. It’s not the same. It’s different. – Nash Bridges, Amazon
You can safely use bottle jack for any projects, whether it’s for garage repair work or DIY. It also features a safety bar that locks it in place once you get the desired height.
For maintenance, remember to use only hydraulic jack oil for this product as was designed. It might not perform as well if you use other types of oil.
Low Profile Aluminum Floor Jack
Not all jacks use the same material to manufacture. The two most commonly used for this tool is steel and aluminum.
While both are same in term of durability and performance, but the aluminum floor jack is lighter, thus, easier to move around. However, it comes with a heftier price tag compared to the steel one.
Here are some of the best low profile aluminum floor jack for you to check it out:
JEGS 3-Ton Professional Aluminum Floor Jack
- 3-Ton
- Low-Profile -...
- Weight:...
- Lifting Capacity: 6,000...
Some of the best floor jacks are aluminum. If you’re after the best aluminum floor jack, look no further than this one from JEGS. It’s made from aluminum construction, which is known to be lightweight while still being durable and stable.
It features a low-profile front roller and rotating rubber saddle that prevents marring of any kind, so your car is definitely safe to be lifted by this car jack. Its saddle can even rotate 360 degrees.
This aluminum floor jack also has wide track wheels so that you can move it around quickly. It also has a seal that protects your hydraulic system from any kinds of contaminants.
Neiko Pro 20272B Aluminum Profile Jack
- Constructed from durable industrial grade...
- Powerful 3 tons lifting capacity, weighting...
- Dual plunger structure provides quicker and...
- Equipped with safety valve to prevent...
Another great low profile aluminum jack that can provide you with professional-grade performance is this one from Neiko Pro.
This floor jack is constructed with industrial-grade aluminum alloy. It is not only highly durable but also ultra-lightweight.
Not only that, but this aluminum jack also has a 3-ton lifting capacity (enough to lift two and a half midsize sedans), which is more than enough for tire changes and other auto repair services.
It also has a dual plunger structure that gives you faster lifting from a height of 3.75 inches until about 19.25 inches.
Plus, its swivel rear casters allow you to position it underneath your car effortlessly.
3-Ton Floor Jack
Low profile floor jacks come with many different weight capacities. After all, not everyone has the same needs. But the one most commonly used in the garage is 3-ton low profile jack.
Here are a few products that can compete for the best 3-ton floor jack:
Arcan ALJ3T Aluminum Floor Jack
- LIGHTWEIGHT AIRCRAFT-GRADE ALUMINUM: Allows...
- DUAL PUMP PISTONS: Quickly raises the floor...
- REINFORCED LIFT ARM: Increases strength,...
- VEHICLE PROTECTION: Designed with a rubber...
The Arcan ALJ3T is one of the best floor jacks that provides excellent performance and received many good ratings from the buyers.
This floor jack is made from aircraft-grade aluminum that is known to be lightweight and highly durable. Not only that, but it also allows for better maneuverability.
It features dual pump pistons that allow you to raise your load quickly and a reinforced lift arm that increases the jack’s strength, control, and durability.
It also has a powerful 3-ton lifting capacity despite being lightweight, making it ideal for lifting cars, trucks, and vans. While it may not be the fastest at lifting loads, it makes up for its ease of use.
Didn’t take much force to lift the car front end. I’d also note at 10 pumps for a minor lift up it’s by no means a speed demon but rather built for ease of use. – Cheyanne, Amazon
Plus, it comes with a one year warranty. This aluminum jack also complies with all 2009 ASME PALD Standards.
Pittsburg 3 Ton Floor Jack and Jack Stands Set
- 3 Ton Low Profile Floor Jack
- Jack Stands Set
Another well-known brand when it comes to floor jacks are the Pittsburgh floor jacks, and this set is no exception. This jack features a low profile design that let you slide beneath your car even it’s low to the ground vehicle like a sports car and elevate the vehicle effortlessly.
This Pittsburg car jack lift offers an impressive lift and has a 3-ton weight capacity. It’s highly durable, stable, and built to perform wonderfully in a garage. Plus, it only takes a few pumps to lift your car, SUV, or truck quickly.
Pittsburg brand is one of the famous brands out there. If you’re looking for a car jack to do regular maintenance work like changing car tires, this Pittsburg floor jack is an excellent option as it’s priced affordably and good quality too.
LiftMaster 3 Ton Aluminum and Steel Floor Jack
- Rated capacity: 3 Ton (6000 lbs)
- Jack is made of light weight aluminum frame...
- Dual Pump Quick Lift hydraulic system saves...
- Ultra Low 2.95 in (75mm) entry point ideal...
This Liftmaster is one of the best hydraulic jacks that is made from a lightweight aluminum frame that reduces its weight, making the jack highly portable. Its lift arm is made from heavy-duty steel, so you know that it’s secure and durable.
Not only that, but this jack also features a dual pump hydraulic system that allows you to lift your load quickly and safely. It has a high lift range of up to 19.68 inches so you can use it for any size vehicles from compact to large cars.
Low Profile Transmission Jack
Alright, we’ve already covered some of the best low profile car jacks, but low profile jack is not only limited to car jacks only. Another type of low profile jacks that are very helpful for you when working with vehicles is the transmission jacks.
When you’re dealing with the removal or installation of your transmission or engine, it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality, low profile transmission jack. Transmission or engine can be heavy, especially when you’re lying down, so brute strength won’t do you any good.
So, what is a transmission jack? A transmission jack is used to securely and safely lift your transmission or engine so that it doesn’t get damaged while you’re working with it.
Here are some of the best low profile transmission jacks for you to check out:
Generic Low Profile Transmission Jack
- Differential transmission jack; Capacity: 450...
- Maximum lift height (inches): 23-1/4'';...
- Saddle tilts for easy positioning; Contoured...
- Caster wheels size (diameter): 3''; 43''Long...
If you’re looking for a transmission jack, this Generic brand low profile transmission jack is an excellent choice. It has a weight capacity of 450 pounds, and a 5-degree forward saddle tilt which makes it easy to position at any angle you wanted.
It also features a contoured cradle that has long nylon safety straps to secure your transmission in place.
This is a great jack for limited space areas. The regular jacks are too big to fit while sliding the transmission out. – Jacko, Amazon
Not only that, but this low profile transmission jack also has 3-inch swivel caster wheels that are non-marring, so you can quickly move this jack around your garage. It is also a great pick if you have space limited issue since it small and quite compact compared to other brands in the market.
JEGS 79012 Transmission Jack
- Low...
- Capacity: 1000...
- Lift Range: 8.5" to...
- 360° Rotation of Pumping...
Another excellent option for low profile transmission jack is this one from JEGS. It has a weight capacity of 1000 pounds and has a lift range of 8.5 inches to 23 inches. This transmission jack also features a pumping handle that can rotate 360 degrees.
It also has a versatile saddle design that you can adjust in every direction for a better fit. Plus, its innovative safety overload system prevents you from using it beyond its capacity and a safety chain to secure the loads.
The jack also comes with a safety feature to steadily lowering the load for safety. It also comes with four swivel ball bearing casters for ease of mobility.
Low Profile Jack Stands
Think about it. While a car jack lift can quickly raise your car, it will be taxing for it to keep your vehicle elevated for a long time. To lessen the pressure on your floor jacks, it’s best to use car jack stands.
So, what is car jack stands? Jack stands are placed underneath your car to help keep it in place. They make sure that your vehicle stays securely elevated while you work.
Here are some of the best car jack stands you might want to check out:
Torin Big Red Aluminum Jack Stands
- Lightweight jack stands for supporting...
- Constructed of high-grade aluminum; Removable...
- Adjustable height ranges from 10-3/4" to...
- Wide foot base provides additional...
Keeping your car stable while it’s lifted is essential, and if you need something durable and stable to support your car while lifted, then take a look at this high-quality pair of car jack stand Torin.
It is made from high-grade aluminum, so you know that it’s lightweight but durable enough to support your vehicle. In fact, it can handle a range of sizes, from sedans to jeeps.
This pair of jack stands has a lift capacity of 3 tons, and a lift range of 10.71 inches up to 15.63 inches.
Its saddles also have a large surface and a large foot base so that your load can sufficiently be supported.
Plus, you can enjoy a limited one year warranty. This pair also meets the ASME Safety Standards.
ESCO 10498 Jack Stand
- Jack stand adjusts from 13" - 21"
- Rubber pad protects against scratching paint;...
- Sold individually
- Powder coated base prevents corrosion
The ESCO jack stand is simple. It doesn’t have many features, but it can get the job done just as good as any other brands and cheaper too.
It has a robust circular base that provides fantastic stability and is even powder-coated so that it can resist rust. Going its full height doesn’t have any effect on how stable this stand is.
Its rubber saddle cushion pad at the top is safe for contacting your car since it protects your vehicle from getting scratches on its paint.
This jack stand can adjust its height from 13 inches to 21 inches and has a powerful 3-ton lift capacity.
Low Profile Pallet Jack
Another kind of jack that you will commonly find in a garage is the pallet jack or also known as pump truck or a pallet truck. Unlike the other jacks in this article, this type of jack is more designed for transport goods and need to use with a pallet.
So, what is a pallet jack? A pallet jack is a kind of trolley that can both lift and move things around. It features tapered forks and a pump handle that can raise or lower its current load.
Depending on how you plan to use it, a pallet jack can be a beneficial mechanic tool to have in the garage.
Need a heavy-duty transport trolley? Here are some of the best low profile pallet jack to check out:
Crown PTH Pallet Jack
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Not all jacks are designed to be used for cars only. Sometime, you’ll need one to transport your parts and tools. If you need a pallet jack, you won’t regret getting this one from Crown.
This pallet jack is made from heavy-gauge steel, so you know you’re getting a highly durable product. It has 48-inch long forks and an ergonomic handle for better positioning.
It also features a three-position level that allows you to raise, lower, and remain in neutral while carrying a load.
Plus, it has 7-inch articulated wheels that can last for a really long time. Its wheels even feature a 200-degree steering angle.
You can also enjoy its 3-year service warranty with its easily replaceable parts.
Mighty Light ML55-2 Pallet Jack
- Galvanized, one piece pallet jack truck pump...
- Overload release valve will protect the...
- Ergonomic handle comes with protective, shock...
- High tensile steel forks with extra 15”...
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty and high-performance pallet jack, this one from Mighty Light is an excellent choice.
The ML55-2 is a galvanized, one-piece pallet jack is designed for its outstanding durability, even when you use it in harsh environments. It offers German seal kits ensures extreme smooth and quicker lifting and lowering.
It also features high tensile steel forks that are reinforced for more strength. The ergonomic handle comes with a protective, shock-absorbing coating for better user experience too.
Not only that. It also features an overload release valve that prevents you from using it over its maximum capacity. It even has extra foot control for better efficiency and safety.
FAQ and Buying Guide
Considerations When Buying A Low Profile Jack
Here are some of the essential points you want to consider when buying a low profile jack:
- Lifting Arm
The lifting arm is an essential part of your floor jack and does all the heavy lifting work. It needs to be durable and robust, so it does not break when lifting heavy load like cars.
Always check and make that the type of material uses to make the arm. Look for terms like “reinforced” to get a quality lift arm that is heavy-duty and durable.
- Lifting Range
A car floor jack that can expend from 3.5 inches up to 16 inches should provide you with enough space to work underneath your vehicle comfortably like a sedan.
But 16 inches is not the maximum though. Other floor jacks can go above 20 inches, which is mostly used for vehicles like SUV and trucks with higher clearance profile.
- Weight Capacity
Whether it’s a low profile jack, bottle jack or scissor jack, you must pay attention to the weight capacity that the jack can handle.
Most of the standard low profile jack selling in the market can lift weight up to three tons or 3,000 kgs. A midsize car weight about 1,500 – 1,600 kgs.
A smaller and compact size floor jack can handle weight up to 1,500 kgs. So, always check the label and make sure you get one that is suitable for the kind of work you intend to do.
- Saddle Pad
The saddle pad of the low profile floor jack is the part that contacts the jack point of your vehicle, which is a flat steel plate underneath your car.
The saddle pad must be made from a high-grade material that is anti-slip for security. That’s why you will always find a rubber pad at the saddle of a floor jack for better security.
- Handles, Rollers, and Casters
Not all floor jacks come with casters. One good example is the bottle jack. But floor jack like the 3-ton floor jack and transmission jack will have rollers and casters. Otherwise, it will be hard to move.
Make sure the rollers and casters are built to be durable and high-quality. The environment that a low profile car jack operates in is usually oily and on a coarse surface. So, you need the rollers and casters work excellently under such environment.
Also, when your low profile floor jack is under a vehicle, it can be challenging to move it around. Having a rear and side handles will help you to move the jack quickly and effortlessly.
- Quality of Construction
The most common material uses to build a low profile floor jack is steel or aluminum. One of the main advantages of those metals is that they can withstand heavy-duty load and will not break easily.
Mostly, the steel low profile floor jack will be heavier than an aluminum one, but it’s more durable. For casual use, you can go with an aluminum floor jack, but for heavy-duty and professional usage, a steel model is more suitable.
- Warranty
Since the low profile floor jack is usually abused in the workshop and will need to be used on a wide range of vehicles, it is a good idea to go with a model that comes with a warranty.
Moreover, the low profile floor jack is a compact floor jack that is very difficult to open and repair in case of damage.
Therefore, ensure that your model comes with an at least one-year warranty that will provide you with peace of mind when using this lifting tool.
What is a Low Profile Jack?
Technically speaking, any device that you can put under the chassis of your car and can raise it a few inches can be called a car jack.
A low profile floor jack is a type of car jack that needs only about 3 to 4 inches of clearance to get its job done.
Having a low profile floor jack in your garage lets you quickly lift your car a few inches or feet above the ground. This also allows you to work under your vehicle comfortably with the extra space after the car is lifted.
However, you need to make sure that the ground you’re working on is stable and flat. While profile jacks can steadily lift heavy equipment like your vehicle, it can still be dangerous if it’s placed on uneven ground.
How to Use a Low Profile Transmission Jack?
A transmission jack is only an accessory to the whole process of fixing your car. You will still need a car lift for the job.
Use your car lift to raise your car about 60 inches off the floor. Next, remove the transmission fluid and securely close the valve body.
This is where your transmission jack comes in. Position it below your car and connect the compressed air line to the valve of your transmission jack.
Center your jack, and let the compressed air extend it and push the transmission up a bit. Secure your transmission on the top of your transmission jack. Now you can remove your transmission from the car.
Watch this video to see how a transmission jack is used:
Why Does a Low Profile Hydraulic Jack Not Stay Up?
Another type of jack you might encounter is the hydraulic jack. It is another dependable type of jack since it is easier to use and more stable than a bottle or a scissor jack.
However, even the best hydraulic jack can break down. Namely, it won’t lift at all. But that doesn’t automatically mean that your hydraulic jack’s useless already.
You can still fix it, and it’s not that hard actually. But first, you need to know what is causing the issue.
There are two possible reasons why your hydraulic jack isn’t lifting correctly or isn’t lifting anything at all. The first reason might be because there is air trapped in its system.
If this happens, place the jack’s release valve in its retracted position to bleed the air out. Remove the oil filler screw. Pump the jack’s handle a few times. Place back the oil filler screw and try the jack again.
Another reason might be because your jack doesn’t have enough of the hydraulic oil. Lack of oil can be due to numerous reasons, and one of the common reasons is leaking. If this is the case, the fix is easy. Just refill the oil, and it will be good to go.
How to Fill Low Profile Jack with Hydraulic Oil?
If your hydraulic jack doesn’t have enough oil, it can affect the lifting power of your jack. That’s why it’s important to refill it when it needs to be refilled.
To do that, first, remove the oil fill plug and check the oil chamber. The oil level should be about 3/16 to ¼ of an inch above the cylinder.
If you’re not sure, see your floor jack’s manual to check for the correct measurement. Remember to use only quality-grade hydraulic jack oil. Other oil products will not work.
Use a funnel to add the oil inside the chamber. If you want, you can even lubricate your jack’s moving parts to help it work more efficiently. A good old WD40 will do the trick.
Lastly, clean your ram with an oily cloth to get all the dust and dirt around.
Learn how to refill oil for your hydraulic jack by watching this video:
How High Can a Low Profile Floor Jack Lift?
When it comes to lifting capacity, floor jacks have a wide variety to choose from. Remember that you do not need to go incredibly high to work more efficiently.
Some car jacks can go as high as 20 to 24 inches off the ground. However, a floor jack with a lift capacity of 16 inches is already good enough for you to work comfortably.
So, whether to go for 24 inches or lower depending on what you’re using it for and your body size. Also, if you intend to work with a mechanics creeper, you might need to lift the vehicle higher than 16 inches.
Another thing you need to think about is how low your jack can go. Some car models have a near to the ground body like sports cars, which makes using some jacks impossible and only low profile jack is suitable to be used.
What Is the Best Low Profile Jack?
There is no definite answer when it comes to this question. It highly depends on your own needs and preferences.
Some jacks can work best for people who continuously lift heavy materials. Others work better for household garages. If you want to check out some tried and tested products, look at the list of low profile jacks above. They are the best for most buyers.
We spent a lot of time vetting through hundreds of different car jacks and study the review left by buyers and only select the best of the best to make that list. So, there’s a good chance that the best for you is already up there as well.
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