Axle Stands

About Axle Stands

Axle stands are essential safety equipment for anyone working underneath vehicles, providing stable, mechanical support once a car, van, or light commercial vehicle has been lifted with a jack. Unlike hydraulic jacks which can fail or leak, axle stands offer a secure locking mechanism that holds the vehicle at a fixed height, ensuring maximum safety during maintenance, repairs, and inspections. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of axle stands from trusted manufacturers including Sealey, Draper, Bahco, and Kincrome, with capacities ranging from 2 tonnes through to heavy-duty 10 tonne models suitable for commercial applications.

The collection features both traditional pin-type stands offering proven reliability, and modern ratchet-style stands that provide quick, precise height adjustment. Professional-grade models include extra-wide bases for enhanced stability, low-entry designs for sports and lowered vehicles, and convenient combo kits pairing axle stands with trolley jacks for a complete lifting solution. All axle stands at MyToolShed.co.uk meet rigorous safety standards, with many models carrying TÜV/GS certification for additional peace of mind in professional workshop environments.

Applications

• Professional Motor Mechanics - Daily workshop use for vehicle servicing and repairs
• Mobile Mechanics - Portable safety equipment for on-site maintenance call-outs
• MOT Testing Stations - Safe vehicle inspection and underside examination
• Fleet Maintenance Engineers - Servicing company vehicles and light commercial fleets
• Classic Car Enthusiasts - Restoration projects and regular maintenance work
• DIY Motorists - Home servicing, brake changes, and general repairs
• 4x4 and Off-Road Specialists - Suspension work and modification installations
• Agricultural Engineers - Supporting tractors and farm machinery during maintenance

Choosing The Right Axle Stands

Weight Capacity: Always check your vehicle's kerb weight and select stands with adequate Safe Working Load (SWL). Typical family cars require 2-3 tonne capacity, whilst vans and 4x4s need 5 tonne or higher. Remember to allow at least 25% safety margin above your vehicle's weight, and note that capacity is usually quoted per pair.

Height Range: Consider both minimum and maximum heights. Low-entry stands suit sports cars and lowered vehicles, whilst extended height models are essential for 4x4s and commercial vehicles. Ensure the adjustment range matches your typical working requirements.

Adjustment Mechanism: Pin-type stands offer simple, robust construction favoured by traditional mechanics. Ratchet-type stands provide quicker, more precise adjustment and easier single-handed operation. Pneumatic rise models deliver rapid positioning for high-volume professional workshops.

Build Quality: Look for welded construction, powder-coated finishes for corrosion resistance, and rubber saddle inserts to protect vehicle jacking points. Reputable brands like Sealey and Draper ensure compliance with European safety standards.

Safety Information

Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack—always use properly rated axle stands as your primary support. Position stands only at manufacturer-approved jacking points on firm, level ground, preferably concrete workshop floors. Always work in pairs of stands set to equal height with locking mechanisms fully engaged. Apply the handbrake firmly, leave the vehicle in gear, and use wheel chocks on remaining wheels in accordance with HSE guidance. Inspect stands regularly for damage, corrosion, or wear, and never exceed the Safe Working Load rating. Your safety depends on using axle stands correctly every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What capacity axle stands do I need for my car?

Check your vehicle's kerb weight in the owner's manual. A typical family car weighing around 1,400kg requires 2-3 tonne capacity stands. Larger vehicles, SUVs, and vans need 4-6 tonne stands, whilst light commercial vehicles require heavy-duty 10 tonne models. Always allow at least 25% capacity margin above your vehicle's weight for safe operation.

What's the difference between pin-type and ratchet-type axle stands?

Pin-type stands use removable pins inserted through holes at fixed intervals, offering simple, robust construction. Ratchet-type stands feature a ratcheting bar mechanism allowing fine, incremental height adjustment without removing pins, making them quicker to set up. Both types are equally safe when properly used—ratchet stands offer convenience, whilst pin stands provide proven reliability and often cost less.

How many axle stands do I need?

For most routine maintenance work such as oil changes or brake work, you'll need a pair of stands to support one end of the vehicle. However, if you need to lift the entire vehicle for exhaust work or extensive underside repairs, you'll require four stands. Many professionals keep both a 2-tonne pair for lighter work and a 3-4 tonne pair for heavier vehicles.