Jack stand saddle preference?

[cgv69]

Hey guys,

Curious if you guys have a preference in the style/shape of the saddle on your jack stands?

I've always used the flatter style as shown in the first pic and have been fairly happen with them but I need some new stands and have noticed that many of them have the U shaped saddle shown in the second pic. I image the U shape style is probably better for using under pinch welds?

I do like that feature but as deep as it is, I'm thinking that style of saddle would only be any good for that purpose or under the axle? Doesn't seem like that type of saddle would be all that safe under a frame?

 

[beakie]

never noticed, or seeked out any specific type.
I'm sure there be a reason for each.

I use what I have in the manner I need it... at that time. Next time, I use it for what it's needed then. And repeat.

 

[zkling]

Between those two the first one, but even better IMHO are flat tops with a hockey puck or the like to replicate a full lift. The problem with the 2nd ones is although they SAY they were designed for unibody and pinch welds. In my experience very seldom do they work well for that as the sides come up at such an aggressive angle and mess up the surrounding material. Not much says careless like folded over pinch welds.

 

[cgv69]

I use what I have in the manner I need it... at that time. Next time, I use it for what it's needed then. And repeat.

I guess that might work in a large shop with a couple of dozen jacks stands of each type laying around but I'm not going to out an buy a new set of stands for each possible scenario. Hence why I'm trying to get the best, most flexibly design the first time around.

The problem with the 2nd ones is although they SAY they were designed for unibody and pinch welds. In my experience very seldom do they work well for that as the sides come up at such an aggressive angle and mess up the surrounding material.

Yeah, I was kind of wondering about that and had the same fear.

Between those two the first one, but even better IMHO are flat tops with a hockey puck or the like to replicate a full lift.

Any options for that type other then the Esco's?

 

[JDon99]

Each have their place. I use urethane pads over the saddles when I can.