Trolley Jack Types Explained: A Complete Guide to Uses, Features & How to Choose

Understanding the different trolley jack types is one of those things most people only think about after struggling with the wrong tool. One jack won’t fit under the car. Another lifts, but never quite feels stable. Before long, a simple job turns into a frustrating one.

Trolley jacks are used in garages, workshops, and driveways every day, but not all of them are built for the same vehicles or the same kind of work. Some are designed for low cars, others for heavier loads, and some for constant daily use. Choosing the right one makes the lift feel controlled and predictable — choosing the wrong one does the opposite.

This guide breaks down the main trolley jack types, explains where each one works best, and shows you what to look for when choosing a jack that actually suits your vehicle and the way you work.

Why Choosing the Right Jack Matters

A jack lifts a vehicle so you can work on it. That’s the job.
But the type of jack you use affects how easy the lift feels, how stable the vehicle sits, and how confident you are once it’s in the air.

When the setup feels right, the work goes smoothly. When it doesn’t, everything slows down.

This guide focuses on trolley jacks. The most common choice for vehicle maintenance, and breaks down the different types so you can pick the one that actually suits the job in front of you.

What Is a Trolley Jack and How Does It Work?

Before comparing different trolley jack types, it helps to understand what a trolley jack actually is and what’s happening when you start pumping the handle.

What a Trolley Jack Is

A trolley jack is a hydraulic lifting tool mounted on a wheeled frame. It’s designed to slide under a vehicle and lift it from a proper jacking point on the chassis or subframe.

Unlike emergency scissor jacks or compact bottle jacks, a trolley jack is built for regular vehicle work. It’s made to lift smoothly, stay stable during the lift, and be positioned accurately under the vehicle.

One important distinction: a trolley jack lifts the vehicle, but it isn’t meant to hold it there. Once the vehicle is raised, axle stands should always be used for support.

How a Trolley Jack Works

The lifting action comes from a simple hydraulic system.

When you move the handle, hydraulic oil is drawn into a small pump chamber. As the handle is pushed down, that oil is forced into the main cylinder under pressure. This pressure pushes the piston upward, which raises the lifting arm and saddle.

Each pump adds a small amount of height, giving you controlled, predictable movement. When it’s time to lower the vehicle, a release valve allows the oil to flow back, bringing the saddle down smoothly rather than dropping suddenly.

The result is steady lifting without sudden jolts or strain.

Common Features Found on Trolley Jacks

While trolley jacks come in different designs and capacities, most share a set of core features that directly affect how they perform.

• Wheeled frame allows slight movement as the suspension lifts, helping maintain balance
• Solid, wide base improves stability under load
• Minimum height determines whether the jack fits under the vehicle
• Maximum lifting height determines how much access you get once raised
• Low profile entry suits modern and lowered vehicles
• Safety valves prevent over-pressurising the hydraulic system
• Overload protection helps stop the jack being pushed beyond its rating

Types of Trolley Jacks Explained

Not all trolley jacks are built the same. The differences come down to clearance, lifting height, weight, and how hard they’re worked. Below are the main types you’ll come across and what they’re actually used for.

Low Profile Trolley Jacks

Heavy Duty Trolley Jacks

Aluminium Trolley Jacks

Long Reach / High Lift Trolley Jacks

Professional Garage Trolley Jacks

Compact or Entry-Level Trolley Jacks

Racing Trolley Jacks

Trolley Jack Type	Best For	Key Benefit	Typical Use
Low Profile Trolley Jack	Low and lowered vehicles	Fits under tight clearance	Sports cars, modern cars
Heavy Duty Trolley Jack	Heavier vehicles	Higher load capacity	Vans, SUVs, light commercial
Aluminium Trolley Jack	Frequent movement	Lighter and easier to handle	Mobile mechanics, workshops
Long Reach / High Lift Trolley Jack	Taller vehicles	Greater lifting range	SUVs, off-road style vehicles
Racing Trolley Jack	Speed and low clearance	Fast lifting, very low entry	Track use, performance cars
Standard / Compact Trolley Jack	General use	Simple, space-saving design	Home garages

How to Choose the Right Trolley Jack for Your Needs

Choosing the right trolley jack comes down to matching the jack to the vehicle and the way you plan to use it.

Vehicle Type and Intended Use

Start with what you’re lifting and how often.

• Occasional home use or regular trade work
• Cars, SUVs, vans, or lowered vehicles

A jack that works well for a small hatchback may not suit a van or SUV.

Load Capacity

Load capacity is a safety-critical figure.

• The jack should exceed the vehicle’s weight
• A safety margin of around 20–30% is a sensible rule

Running a jack close to its limit shortens its lifespan and increases risk.

Lifting Range

Both ends of the lifting range matter.

Minimum Height

• Determines whether the jack fits under the vehicle
• Especially important for low or modified cars

Maximum Height

• Determines how much working space you get underneath
• Important for wheel removal and taller vehicles

The jack needs to fit under the car and lift it high enough to work comfortably.

Build Quality and Materials

Construction affects durability and feel.

• Steel jacks are heavier and feel more solid
• Aluminium jacks are lighter and easier to move
• Reinforced lifting arms handle repeated use better

Weight and Manoeuvrability

The jack’s weight affects how easy it is to handle.

• Heavier jacks feel more stable under load
• Lighter jacks are easier to move and transport
• Wheel quality affects positioning and control

Pump Speed and Ease of Use

Pump design affects effort and speed.

• Single pump systems take more strokes
• Dual pump systems lift faster with less effort

Faster lifting makes a noticeable difference during repeated jobs.

Advantages and Limitations of Trolley Jacks

Trolley jacks are popular for a reason, but they aren’t perfect for every situation.

Using a Trolley Jack Safely

Lifting a vehicle always carries risk. Good habits and the right setup make a big difference.

Built-In Safety Features to Look For

• Overload protection helps prevent lifting beyond the jack’s rated capacity
• Pressure release systems allow the vehicle to be lowered in a controlled way

These features don’t replace good practice, but they add an extra layer of protection.

Why Jack Stands Are Essential

A trolley jack is a lifting tool, not a support tool.

• The jack raises the vehicle
• Jack stands hold the weight while you work

Always use stands that match or exceed the vehicle’s weight. Never rely on the jack alone once the vehicle is raised.

Correct Placement and Surface Conditions

• Always use the jack on flat, stable ground
• Avoid uneven surfaces, slopes, or soft ground
• Position the saddle under the correct jacking point

A solid surface and correct placement reduce the risk of tipping or slipping.

Respecting Weight Limits

• Never exceed the jack’s rated capacity
• Overloading increases the risk of failure
• Repeated overloading shortens the jack’s lifespan

If a vehicle feels too heavy for the jack, it probably is.

Maintaining Your Trolley Jack

Basic maintenance keeps a trolley jack working smoothly and safely.

Routine Checks

• Look for hydraulic fluid leaks
• Check for bent or damaged parts
• Monitor hydraulic fluid levels

Regular checks help catch problems early.

Lubricating Moving Parts

• Wheels
• Hinges
• Pistons

Light lubrication reduces wear and keeps movement smooth.

Correct Storage

• Store the jack in an upright position
• Keep it in a clean, dry environment
• Prevent moisture from reaching seals and internal components

Proper storage helps prevent leaks and seal damage over time.

How Trolley Jacks Compare to Other Jack Types

Trolley jacks aren’t the only lifting option, but they suit different jobs better than most alternatives.

• Bottle jacks: compact and high capacity, but limited lifting range and less stable for vehicle work
• Scissor jacks: lightweight and easy to store, mainly intended for emergency roadside use
• High-lift jacks: designed for off-road vehicles, unstable on flat workshop floors

For regular vehicle maintenance, trolley jacks offer the best balance of control and stability.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Trolley Jack

The right trolley jack depends on the vehicle you’re lifting and how often you use it.

Match the jack to your vehicle’s weight and clearance. Choose solid construction over the cheapest option. And always prioritise safety, both in the jack itself and in how it’s used.

Once you know what to look for, choosing the right trolley jack becomes straightforward — and the job underneath the vehicle becomes a lot more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What trolley jack size do I need for my car?
Choose a jack with a load rating at least 20–30% higher than your vehicle’s weight and a minimum height low enough to fit under the car.

Can I leave my car supported by a trolley jack?
No. A trolley jack is for lifting only. Always use axle stands to support the vehicle before working underneath it.

What’s the difference between a low profile and standard trolley jack?
Low profile trolley jacks have a lower entry height, making them suitable for lowered or modern vehicles. Standard models need more ground clearance.

Are aluminium trolley jacks strong enough?
Yes, when correctly rated. Aluminium jacks are lighter and easier to move, but you should still match the load capacity to your vehicle.

Why won’t my trolley jack lift properly?
Common causes include low hydraulic fluid, trapped air in the system, or exceeding the jack’s weight rating.

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Here are some of our most popular trolley jack ranges, trusted by garages, workshops, and trade professionals across the UK.