When you’re working on vehicles, especially using a car lift in your garage, simply having the lift is just the beginning. To efficiently and safely carry out repairs, you’ll need a selection of additional tools to make the job easier and more professional. Here’s a rundown of tools that are invaluable when lifting your car for maintenance and repair tasks.
One of the first tools you’ll appreciate is a good oil drain. Opting for an under-lift drain is a smart move. A 20-gallon portable oil lift drain is a popular choice for many DIY mechanics. These drains, like the one from Harbor Freight, allow for convenient oil changes directly under the lifted vehicle. The pneumatic oil transfer system built into these units makes transferring used oil to storage containers clean and straightforward, minimizing mess and hassle. This is a significant upgrade from traditional drain pans, especially when dealing with larger vehicles or frequent oil changes.
Another indispensable tool is a tool cart. Once your car is lifted, you’ll quickly realize the need for a mobile workstation. A 4 or 5-drawer tool cart is perfect for keeping your essential tools within arm’s reach while you’re working under the car. Without a tool cart, you’ll find yourself constantly getting up and down to retrieve tools, wasting time and effort. Having your wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, and other frequently used tools organized and mobile is a game-changer for efficiency.
For tasks that require additional support beyond the car lift, consider investing in jack stands. A set of mid-rise jack stands is incredibly useful for supporting heavy components like axles when you’re tackling suspension work. Complementing these with at least one tall jack stand is beneficial, especially when dealing with engine and transmission work. For instance, a tall jack stand can provide crucial support to the back of the engine when you’re removing a transmission, ensuring safety and stability during complex procedures.
When it comes to transmission work specifically, an under-lift transmission jack is almost essential. While there are various options available, a 2-stage dual tilt transmission jack provides a good starting point. These jacks are designed to safely and securely hold transmissions during removal and installation, making a potentially cumbersome job much more manageable. Investing in a reliable transmission jack will save you considerable effort and reduce the risk of damage or injury.
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of good lighting. While fixed garage lighting is helpful, having dedicated work lights for under-car tasks is crucial. An auto-retract reel drop light, especially one upgraded with an LED bulb, provides focused illumination where you need it most. For even more flexibility, a 300-lumen headlight and a slim LED drop light are excellent additions. Headlights allow for hands-free lighting that follows your line of sight, while slim LED drop lights can fit into tight spaces, ensuring you have ample light for detailed work in any situation.
In conclusion, while a car lift is a major asset for any automotive enthusiast or professional mechanic, equipping your workspace with these additional tools—an oil drain, tool cart, jack stands, transmission jack, and good lighting—will significantly enhance your efficiency, safety, and overall work quality when lifting and repairing vehicles.
