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Jack vs Ramp – Which Lifting Tool Is Right for Your Garage?

Jack vs Ramp – Which Lifting Tool Is Right for Your Garage?

Jack vs Ramp – Which Lifting Tool Is Right for Your Garage?

If you're doing any sort of vehicle maintenance — from oil changes to exhaust work — you'll need to get your vehicle off the ground safely. But should you use a jack or a ramp?

At Town Tools, we help DIYers and pros alike find the right lifting gear for the job. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options, their strengths, and what you should use in your own garage setup.


🏋️♂️ Option 1: Trolley Jacks

A trolley jack uses hydraulic power to lift one corner or side of the vehicle quickly and precisely.

✅ Best for:

  • Tyre changes

  • Brake jobs

  • Spot maintenance on one wheel or suspension

  • Low clearance vehicles (with low-profile jacks)

⚠️ Consider:

  • Must always be used with axle stands

  • Not ideal for long-term support

  • Lifts a small portion of the vehicle at a time

🛠 Example: Sealey 2 Tonne Trolley Jack – VS2002


🪜 Option 2: Car Ramps

Ramps are a drive-on solution that lift the front or rear of your vehicle evenly.

✅ Best for:

  • Oil changes

  • Exhaust and undertray access

  • Long-term support

  • Beginners — no lifting mechanism involved

⚠️ Consider:

  • Only suitable for front or rear — not side lifting

  • Need a bit of clear space to drive up safely

  • Harder with very low cars or sports vehicles

🛠 Look for wide, high-grip ramps for stability on driveways.


🧱 Option 3: Bottle Jacks (Bonus Mention)

Bottle jacks offer compact lifting power, especially for 4x4s or vans. They’re portable and powerful, but less stable on uneven ground.

✅ Best for:

  • Heavy vehicles

  • Quick, temporary lifts

  • Emergency kits

⚠️ Not ideal for regular garage work.

Always use stands after lifting.


🔧 So… Which Should You Choose?

Scenario Best Tool
Changing a wheel Trolley Jack
Routine servicing (oil, filters) Ramps
Quick roadside lift Bottle Jack
Full underbody work Jack + Axle Stands
Long-term parked repairs Ramps + Wheel Chocks

✅ Final Word:

No matter what you’re working on, safety is the priority.
A trolley jack gives you speed and control, while ramps offer steady support.
And at Town Tools, we stock both — including axle stands, chocks, and accessories to complete your setup.

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