TIPS FOR BUYING AND USING

Height is everything – The working heights of axle stands must be considered due to the increased ground clearance of the Land Rover vehicle range. The stands on test allow for working on a Series vehicle’s brakes and axles without being fully extended.

Versatility – 3-tonne capacity stands are, by their construction, reasonably heavy and bulky to store. One folding exception to this rule is included in the test. If you must keep axle stands on board, ensure they are secured safely and can’t be thrown around due to vehicle movement.

Value for money – Don’t buy axle stands on price alone. Look for quality of construction, such as continuous welds where necessary, and stable cradle design for the support you need.

Key Considerations – On a level floor, four feet can be more stable than a tripod design for prolonged or heavy duty work, especially on tarmac. That said, broad base tripods are better than smaller four-feet designs. Note that when raising a vehicle off ratchettype stands, it is possible for the cradle post to inadvertently stick to the axle underseal, potentially changing the height.

Ratchet stands must have this tab pressed in to prevent the post lifting out if it sticks to the vehicle underside.

Ensure the SWL (Safe Working Load) is per stand, and not just a combined load ‘per pair’. Check the specs.

A cradle with a cut-out definitely offers greater stability than a flat or curved one.