Choosing the Best Air Bag Jack for Your Auto Shop
Posted by JMC Team on 11th Oct 2023
Air bag jacks are a good option when it comes to lifting your vehicle. However, they work properly for certain kinds of jobs, which you must consider when investing in them. For this reason, in this blog post, we'll dive into a guide for choosing the air bag jack that works best for you! An air bag jack is a thin and reinforced inflatable bag that can be positioned in tight or confined spaces with as little as 1 inch of clearance. It inflates with compressed air and can lift up to 13 tons of weight, depending on the model. Air bag jacks are ideal for wheel and suspension work, as well as for lifting low-clearance cars like Corvettes.
But how do you choose the best airbag jack for your needs?
Here are some factors to consider:
Types of Air Bag Jacks
There are different types of airbag jacks, such as single bag, double bag, triple bag, and multi-bag. The more bags, the higher the lifting capacity and height, but also the higher the price and weight. So, choose the type that suits your lifting requirements and budget. For instance, if you only need to lift cars, a single- or double-bag airbag jack might be enough. But if you need to lift heavier vehicles like trucks or buses, you might need a triple-bag or multi-bag airbag jack.
Air Bag Jacks Specifications
Check the specifications of the airbag jack, such as its smallest and largest height, lifting capacity, inflation time, air pressure, weight, and dimensions. Moreover, look for an airbag jack that has a high lifting capacity and height but also a low minimum height and weight. It would make it easier for you to position and handle. You should also make sure that the air pressure of the airbag jack matches the air source that you have in your shop. To point out, if you have an air compressor that can provide 116 psi of air pressure, look for an airbag jack that works with that pressure.
Tasks that Air Bag Jacks Can Perform
When choosing an airbag jack, consider the tasks that you want to perform, such as lifting cars, trucks, buses, trailers, or other vehicles. In fact, you must think about the terrain and conditions where you will use the airbag jack. Consider if it is a soft floor, muddy roads, uneven surfaces, indoors or outdoors. So, choose an airbag jack that is compatible with your vehicle and environment. For example, if you need to lift vehicles on soft or muddy roads, then look for an airbag jack that has a large contact area and a non-slip surface to prevent sinking or sliding. To help you make your decision, here are some examples of airbag jacks that you can find on the market:
Air Bag Jack Triple Bag
Esco 92041 Bladder Jack, 2 Ton, Triple Bag
This is a triple-bag airbag jack that can lift up to 2 tons of weight and up to 17.7 inches of height. It has a minimum height of 4.5 inches and weighs 33 pounds. It can inflate in 3 to 5 seconds with an air pressure of 116 psi. Also, it has six steel pipes for stability and side handles for easy carrying. The Esco 92041 Bladder Jack is suitable for cars, garages, and repair shops. This airbag jack is a good choice if you need a high lifting height and a stable base. Besides, it can be used in different positions, such as horizontal or vertical.
Three-Stage Air Bag Jack
Esco 92013 Yak Bladder Jack, Air Operated, 3 Stages
A three-stage airbag jack can lift up to 4 tons of weight and up to 23 inches of height. It has a minimum height of 5 inches and weighs 55 pounds. Also, it inflates in 3 to 5 seconds with an air pressure of 116 psi. This airbag jack has a safety valve to prevent overloading and a release valve to control the lowering speed. It is suitable for trucks, buses, trailers, and agricultural vehicles. The Esco 92013 YAK Bladder Jack is a good choice if you need a high lifting capacity and a smooth lowering mechanism.
Two-Stage Air Bag Jack
Esco 92011 Yak Bladder Jack, Air Operated, 2 Stages
A two-stage airbag jack can lift up to 2 tons of weight and up to 15 inches of height. It has a minimum height of 4 inches and weighs 37 pounds. As well, it inflates in 3 to 5 seconds with an air pressure of 116 psi. This two-stage airbag jack has a safety valve to prevent overloading and a release valve to control the lowering speed. Also, it is suitable for cars, garages, and repair shops. The Esco 92011 YAK Bladder Jack is a good choice if you need a low minimum height and a fast inflation time.
Air Bag Jakcs Available
As you can see, there are many options available when it comes to choosing an air bag jack for your shop or garage. Compare the features and benefits of each model and find the one that meets your needs and expectations.
An air bag jack can be a great addition to your lifting equipment arsenal and make your work easier and faster. If you want to equip your store, contact us today and let us know how we can help you!