Here’s the list of products reviewed. More details in the video description. Thank you! Black Jack: amzn.to/3SYHrMf Arcan: amzn.to/3Cb4wp3 Pittsburgh (also available at Harbor Freight): amzn.to/3CfSvPr ESCO: amzn.to/3Pv1r6r Husky: amzn.to/3A7QMJk Maasdam: Available at Home Depot Daytona DJ3000: Available at Harbor Freight Snap On: Available at Snap On’s Online Store
Please test the Pro Eagle and AGM jack locks for floor jacks. Also test and compare the Harbor Freight floor jack cross beam and competitive brands. Summit Racing has some more expensive versions. Amazon has a number of different versions available.
Around the mid 1990's my wife bought me a Sears Craftsman floor jack for Christmas and it wasn't one of those cheap jacks. This was a true professional looking, serious floor jack and I used that thing for years with the two stands that came with it. It was probably one of the best gifts my wife has ever given me, which is what made it so hard to sell in a garage sale after I got sick (Parkinson's) and couldn't maintain our cars anymore. It was just a floor jack but it was very hard seeing that thing roll out of my garage for the last time and into someone else's truck given how useful it had been and who gave it to me. All I can do today is watch videos of other people using these tools but I'll always remember that floor jack.
I've got a craftsman 3 ton from right around 1990. I think it weighs 3 tons. It's been amazing. I'm getting to the age where I do al;most no car work and it's harder to move around, but I still like it.
Dang. My dad is in his mid 70's, but he also has Parkinson's. Kind of the same thing, he can't really do too much nowadays. But he taught me everything I know, and he handed me down enough tools to start my own business. I just turned 44 years old, I'm hoping to be able to work until a reasonable retirement age. Here's hoping my body can keep up another 20 years or so, mechanic work seems to be kind of hard on the body.
@@frylockthefryman I'm managing okay but I sure miss being able to work on things myself using the great tools I once had. And yes, the old Craftsman tools had great quality and were backed by a no question warranty. Although some Craftsman tools are still great, so much of it is now made in China for the least cost available and it further saddens me knowing how so many of our (USA) brands have fallen into mediocrity. I remember the green Craftsman floor jacks (mine was silver) and they were well made and built to last, and you didn't have to worry about it failing if maintained properly. They just plain WORKED.
@@jtjones4727 You're correct about mechanics having a tough life, try being a diesel mechanic, that's tough, and many times you either need a hoist or forklift to move stuff around. Sometimes it takes muscle to move some things. Still, any kind of mechanics have a hard life
I bought a Daytona about a year ago based on good online reviews. I promptly came home from Harbor Freight and requested that you do a comparison test of other brands because there were so many other terrible reviews on other jacks. You responded and said thanks for the idea. I was so excited to see this test finally come through. I've never donated to a Patreon before but I absolutely love your work and appreciate seeing you respond to viewer requests! I will definitely be donating to you because these tests are expensive but important for people's safety and spending money wisely. Thank you for taking the time so that we don't have to.
I review everything before I buy it. This review was by far the best I've ever watched. Not because of the products reviewed but by the way it's done. This review is fast, no BS and covers everything. Much appreciated and you now have a life long follower/subscriber!👍
Agreed this was a great video with a ton of info. I got my low profile 3 ton from Harbor Freight on a big sale paid under $100 about 7 years ago. Fit nicely under my Monte Carlo and pops my Jeep off the ground with ease. Unless I get something over 5,000 lbs or start doing suspension work on the regular no need to spend more than $150 on a jack
@@ProjectFarm None of the things you’re testing really even matter. You’re trading it like we only use Jackson a science lab! Why not test every single Jack on every single car and truck. That’s the real difference!
In our tire shop we actually have the Daytona, Pittsburg, and the snap on on. They get used thoroughly in the shop. Snap on has been the only one to quit on us. But it was under warranty by snap on and they have replaced it after almost a year old. All three jacks are approximately 3 years old now. All still work. The Pittsburg definitely seems the most worn out. Casters are much looser than the other two. But all still work great.
@Street Performance Bikes "People who buy the most expensive tools are the same ones who live in a 1 bedroom apartment drive a mustang and have a versace shirt or gucci bag. Its all in the mindset. LOL you just made my day! However, I own 2 homes, have $300K income and drive a Mustang, do I need to rethink my play car decision 😞
I've noticed that SnapOn is now cheap crap with a high price tag. They used to make REALLY high end stuff and a lot of us still have and use those tools but these days they just make crap. The hand tools were pretty good until a couple of years ago.
@@slalomking BSME, MBA, 26 years experience and an currently an officer for a large company. I am not sorry for the hard work that I put in over my career leading to my success
If there is any channel that truly deserves the YT money, ads and recognition it's this one. Thank you for keeping it honest, and putting in soo much effort in each of your videos. People like you are the true "celebrities" and "stars" of th society, in my eyes!
This is the one and only channel I have ever even considered becoming a member/supporter. For the wealth of information provided, two, five, or even ten bucks a month is a steal.
"Thank you for keeping it honest". Don't get me wrong when I say this, because I COMPLETELY agree with everything that you said. But their's no way to know for sure that he's keeping things honest. I think he is a very honest person, and DOES test things honestly. All I'm trying to say is, you don't ALWAYS know when you're being fooled. Project Farm is so honest, he would be the first to agree with me on this.
As an average/amateur DIYer, I own a Daytona jack for 3 years and I can say it always worked and I never had any mishaps. Great value for money and after watching this video, I bet the folks at Daytona benchmarked the Snap-On jack and simply copied their best bits and sell it at a fraction of the price. Sucks for Snap-On but great for consumers.
Rumor is Sunnex makes the Daytona and Snap On jacks. I have personally had the opportunity to have them both side by side and I have no doubts they have interchangeable parts. I’m talking down to the hardware it looks to be the exact same. At least the Snap On jack i compared to which was a FJ3000 purchased new in 2016 or 17
I believe snap on tried to sue Daytona years ago but that was dropped when it was found out that snap on was not made in the us but made in China and had the same manufacturer as Daytona
Your presentation efficiency is second to none. No fluff or wasted time just brass tacks and you present information so succinctly and at great pace that keeps me interested and paying attention. You should give presentation seminars.
I always got that wrong brass tacks vs brass tax. I had to look it up and sure enough I am an idiot. I can now check one more thing off my list that makes me an uninformed idiot. Thanks.
I bought the yellow Daytona Jack when it first came out (about 6 years ago) and it was only $180 then. It still makes me happy knowing it was money well spent. The height it reaches for taller vehicles makes a world of difference. Absolutely beast of a jack!
After watching for years, I'm still floored with the all testing and explaining of everything. The amount of time you put it into your videos is amazing. Watching the production value go up video after video great to see. Great work
I don’t have a floor jack nor will I be needing one anytime soon, but this is by far the best informational and educational video I’ve ever seen. This is how tv should be, thank you sir.
I consider aluminum jacks in their own category. Their lightness is so valuable when loading them in and out of trucks and race car trailers that you really wouldn't consider a steel jack for that purpose. I feel like you could do a comparison of aluminum jacks which would be very valuable to those who need to move their jacks frequently and who wouldn't consider a steel jack.
I don't know if there are enough to justify their own test, but it is a significant note. Under the circumstance a jack you can one hand lift is a significant change. I have a rebrand of the Arcan picked specifically for that reason.
Idk, I move my Daytona a few times a month in and out of the trunk of my car. Have had it since 2013. It's heavy sure, but I really don't mind. I might care in another 20 years, but from 24 to 33 it's been fine.
I always find your creative yet scientific ways of testing anything and everything to be... VERY IMPRESSIVE. Love your channel. Keep up the great work.
@@ProjectFarm You have really set the bar for testing different tools and products keep up the good work and always stay unbiased to everything. Also I do hope you see the test idea in the comments I've pitched for you. I got some ideas and test methods if you want to hear them.
Yeah, that's exactly why I subscribed! Innovative, comprehensive, concise and clear describe his work and for some reason his voice is pleasant unlike some others. Even the graphs are great as they allow a quick reference and make understanding the readings and ratings easy.
One of the things I appreciate most about these tests is your eye for detail (e.g. welds, quality of construction, testing the flavor text) another great test!
I bought a harbor freight jack about 30 years ago and another one with and adjustable saddle about 20 years ago, both are still working great with no problems. Thanks for the review especially the piece on refilling the jack oil. I am a fan of your reviews because they are thorough and objective. Thanks again for your efforts.
Bought a motorcycle floor jack about 20 years ago from HF. I have used it on Road Kings and Heritage Softails and is reliable and I have never felt it being spongy or cheap. Great tool.
Yeah my dad had one maybe 13 years old. Still had it but it's starting to rust and won't stay up long before it starts to slowly creep down. He now bought another Pittsburg jack. After seeing how the original one did I also bought a Pittsburgh as my first Jack. I typically use his tools for major jobs but I wanted my own for oil changes and brake work. Really impressed by his old yellowish orange Jack. Now it's more of a last resort jack but it still lifts!!! (Definitely with Jack stand though)
Man, the Daytona jack is seriously impressive. It looks like it was made to basically never break. Only other one I'd consider besides the Daytona is the Arcan, mostly for its light weight. But I'm still inclined to the Daytona for all the grease ports. More than just being cheap, that's a jack made to be maintained and cared for, and that's something I really appreciate about it.
Serviceability is always a huge item to consider that's what keeps something working properly for the long run. I was surprised when I unboxed my Daytona jack a couple years ago that it had grease zerks on the wheels.
I have both the Daytona and Arcan. I prefer the Daytona for all my jobs in the garage. But when I do work around town I bring the Arcan because it's light enough to lift in my vehicle.
I have the Daytona, and it is a great value. It has a quick lift lever that raises the arm to the point of contact before engaging the load. Saves a lot of time on positioning the jack.
I have a Daytona. It extends high enough for my wife's Honda Pilot but it also has a low enough profile to get under my lowered Hyundai Accent (no I didn't lower it, the dealer did and added a sport suspension for some reason 😄). It's a beefy jack, raises up super quick, and lowers even quicker.
Usually I end up a little surprised in all your tests, but, here I had not doubt that the Daytona and Snap on would come out on top. That being said, I would buy two Daytona Jacks and two set of jacks stands and still have money left over for a lifetime supply of jack oil, instead of buying a Snap on jack.
Been using the 3-ton Daytona for many years on my Tundra, Camry, and Elantra. Love it. The low profile is excellent for the Elantra, and the lift height is great for my Tundra. Outstanding jack that I wish I purchased long ago. Love this channel, btw. You stress test in ways that I can't even dream up and I watch every upload.. Keep it up, my man!
I hear you. I did not know that they made a low profile floor jack for years, so I always paid people to change my engine oil. Then I bought the low-profile black jack and it has saved me so much money on changing oil, but it does like to settle if you leave load on it.
Accurate, realistic, well thought out testing and video presentation with no pressure to buy.... WIN WIN AND WIN!!! I often reference basically anything mechanical back to this channel prior ro making any purchase. You are educating customers and helping us make more informed purchase decisions!!! 👏🏿!!!!
bought a couple daytonas in my shop when they first came around. Used them daily and hit the pressure bypass on each one a couple times a year, and still no problems out of either one. Even the sticker still looks good on one of them.
I honestly had no idea that I needed to watch videos of extension cord tests or jack tests at 2am in the morning, but here I am. I always agonize over decisions with tools, so these tests are fantastic, thanks so much for what you do!
I purchased a Daytona a couple years ago because it looked like it was well built and reasonably priced for what it was. I've used it quite a bit over that time and it's worked great. I would have preferred to buy a US made product (Snap On) but it is just too expensive. I could justify it if it were 15/20% more but not 3 times as much.
Same. I've got the regular Daytona (not the low pro) and it is a sturdy, well made piece of kit. Until the U.S. starts up its factories again, I'll stick with harbor freight for most things because EVERYTHING is made in "chy-na" nowadays. I figure, if I have to give my hard earned dollars to my enemy, it will be as few dollars as possible.
I have the Arcan aluminum 3-ton floor jack. It has been serving me well for the past 10 years. Still look fresh like I just purchased it last week. I used it to lift my 2 SUVs and a sedan, with no issues. I am glad to see it performing well on these tests.
I have a canadian re-badge of the arcan aluminum, great jack, no problem with my heavy trucks, I'm also in a wheelchair so it being lightweight makes it WAY easier to move around the shop or lift onto my lap if I have to use it in the driveway, I absolutely couldn't lift my old steel jack
@@MattH-wg7ou mines a re-badger arcan, I have a 3/4ton suburban no problems lifting it, quite lowprofile too so I can't see you having any issues with your accord either
I have the re-branded JEGS version of it. It was great for about 5 years. Then one of the power unit springs got stuck. Won't lift now. Contemplating just buying a new one as I'm having problems finding the replacement part for a reasonable amount.
You have the absolute best testing methods I have ever seen! I love how thorough you are and I appreciate you making these videos especially in todays economy where every dollar matters! THANK YOU!
Bought the Husky about 2 years ago, very happy with it and glad to see it performed well here. "Real" jacks like these are a surprisingly large step up from the smaller portable hydraulic jacks many DIYers have and are definitely worth investing in if you work on your own cars a lot
My little Craftsman jack served me well for a number of years, but in hindsight, I wish I had sprung for a bigger, low-profile jack like one of these tested.
Thank you so much for your content. I have learned a lot from you. I don’t know what your background is but one thing you do know is how to test products way better than consumer reports and we know you’re not controlled by advertising. Thanks for your hard work. You are one amazing farmer.
This is EXACTLY how all comparison videos even how to videos should be done. Quick to the Point and only showing details and whats important. no BS back Stories or Opinions. There's no waste of time! No wonder this vid is popular. Its easy to watch all the way to the end.!
I have four of the 4 ton Daytona jacks and can't imagine life without them. They are absolutely indispensable when working on big diesel trucks. You just can't beat the quality and price.
I just can't bring myself to trust a harbor freight jack. Even if it is an exact rip off copy cat of a snap on. That's just me though. I bought my snap on 4 ton for 750 bucks new off the truck. Well worth the money In my opinion
The money spent for the 3 Ton Daytona Jack was definitely a great investment. The low profile gets under any car I've worked on and the height it very nice. I know the sell a wide double pad attachment for doing frame lifting or cross members. When Snap On took Daytona to court for stealing their design and lost I knew it was going to be a hell of a Jack for cheap. Very sweet video Todd
Your not supporting American workers tho. I guess maybe most people don’t care about that tho. Some slave in china is making your jack for a bowl of rice that’s fucked up
I agree, I have the same Daytona jack it's. It's been great for investment. I was actually surprise on how familiar the Maasdam looked to the Daytona jack as well.
About to hit 5 years with my Daytona super duty, lifting everything from small cars to full size trucks & SUVs. Never greased it & still smooth as butter. Probably do for a maintenance. Oh & the rear casters come apart for better greasing.
I’ve had my Pittsburgh for about 6 years and it’s never failed me. Don’t remember how much I paid for it, but it was an awesome deal, well under what they cost now. Never did maintenance on it (though I probably should) and I’ve used it quite extensively. Will definitely buy another one when/if this one fails. Also, this is one of the best channels on UA-cam. Always look forward to new content on here. Keep rocking.
I'm on my second Pittsburgh, the first one lasted about 2 years after being used professionally on a regular basis. Then I had to disassemble it and do a small repair during which time I found some warn out components and decided it's no longer safe to use it professionally. It still works, but I only use it very occasionally at my house. The second Pittsburgh is on its second year and it's showing some signs of wear.. Maybe I'll try a different brand next time.
I've had one of those Daytona jacks for maybe 5 years. Been very happy with it. It has good tolerance to side loading, which is something that always concerns me as I don't want my jack breaking sideways on an imperfect lift.
Weld-quality had a lot of variance. For something that holds 6000lbs, was nice to see the clean finished welds. Most people probably wouldn't even check. Great thorough review.
Very very thorough test! Thank you so much. I don't do any under-car work any more, and wish you had been doing these tests decades ago. I hope people in 2022 realize how lucky they are to have reviews of products done so expertly and honestly. Cheers from Alberta, Canada! :)
Snap on lost a lawsuit against harbor freight, the Daytona is made in the same Chinese Factory as the snap on, snap on claimed theirs was made in the USA, but claimed the Daytona stole their design, when in fact it was just being made in the same sweatshop!! Snap on who claimed theirs was made in the USA embarrassed dropped the suit!
I wonder how many companies do that bcs I’m sure it’s A LOT? Like “Made In the USA” is pretty vague… like what part was made? The concept, design, manufacturing?? There’s a lot that goes into taking a product from concept to customer and w how unregulated companies are when it comes to marketing claims (and so much more) I’m sure if just a certain percentage of it is done in the US they can make the claim. I went down the rabbit hole of the mattress industry when we needed a new one. I ultimately ended up sourcing components myself and made my own (DO RECOMMEND, btw), but the sh*t they pull is mind blowing. There was a video I saw of a dude cannibalizing a Serta (I think) to take the good components and replacing the worn ones, and as he was removing the layers of this queen size mattress and inspecting them he pulled out a yoga mat sized “gel foam layer.” They literally only need to put a dash of a component in to be able to claim it’s a “gel foam mattress.” 🤯😠 Guess that’s what we get for having weak regulations on companies or former board members/CEOS of said companies doing what little regulation there is. 🤷🏻
Thanks for the info: I started looking for one of these and there seems to be more than one "Daytona" model--> do you know which model(s) of the Daytona were "very similar" to the Snap On? I used to want to "buy American" but large companies, for lots of reasons, don't use the same definition as we would, so that makes it easier for me to buy something made abroad. I would be using to work on a Japanese (non USA) car anyway :)
@@bigboreracing356 Dude, they lost the lawsuit, do your homework, they claimed all of their stuff was Made in the USA until very recent. they changed the verbiage due to being laughed at. come back anytime with your butt hurt self. How else would they have lost in court!!
Update! Based on this review, I just bought the Daytona (in metal flake red since it was on the top of the stack and these things are heavy). Needed it to level a shipping container (8,200 lbs empty). First, those big wide wheels make it somewhat easily transportable across dirt or grass. I used two each large pieces of 5/8" plywood under the wheels to keep the jack from sinking once in place. Keep in mind that a shipping container is a very rigid steel box, so jacking just a corner up raises the whole end of the container(4,200lbs roughly). I was able to pump the jack one handed to the desired height and nothing creaked or groaned on the jack while I placed additional blocks under the container. Money well spent so far!
That Arcan is amazing!!! I've had mine about 2 years now. AAA quality and performance and OMG it's so easy to move around and carry being so light. Well worth the extra price for the ease of mobility
When seeing the weight of the others I was like "oh geez!" I always have to carry my jack around as I can't roll it to where I need it. It weighs about half that of the Daytona so I'm sold.
"We'll go over how to know when your jack needs oil, and how to add oil, later in the video." Above and beyond in both his testing and presentation, as well as in his attentiveness. I love this man.
I bought a new floor jack based on this review. Also, I have bought many other tools based on your reviews. My favorites are my knipex tools, gear wrench ratchets, irwin side cutters, and many quarts of seafoam. Good tools are hard to come by, good tool reviews are even harder to find, thank you for your straightforward and honest tests, followed up by real world opinion. Well done!
Well, now that we have this, I suppose we need a jack stand showdown as well. Could do rated weight, time on stand (in theory should be indefinite, but hey), and angled capacity since not all garages and driveways are perfectly flat and sharper angles can significantly compromise the strength of the jack stand.
And test if you can disengage the jack stand with a load on it. Harbor Freight had to recall a bunch of theirs years back because of this, causing a safety risk.
Daytona jack seemed pretty comparable to the snap on jack for the price difference I think most people could over look the smaller front wheels and the slight difference in the rise height.... 300$ vs 1000$ is an impressive savings for a few minor differences
@@ShitboxShenanigans the patent running out was a good thing for customers now they have other options other then snap on over pricing their tools and accessories.. don't get me wrong here snap on is a great company but competition keeps prices competitive
This just in time, started looking at floor jacks this past weekend. And the Daytona has been my front runner for price and by the quality of the build. Thank you again for doing these tests to help the folks who can't do all these wonderful tests. Your tests with charts and covering the information that is most helpful!
I’m sure you are aware but make sure to get a 20% off coupon before the purchase. With Labor Day coming up there will be sales and flyers. Sometimes those coupons don’t work on that jack so sales might be the best time to jump on a new one.
Excellent presentation (as always). Something I would emphasize for farmers/ranchers who may have to use a jack "in the field", consider the weight of the jack. It appears that as I got older, my tools got heavier! A light jack like the Arcan is very useful when it comes down to raising an implement/implement part off the ground in awkward positions/location which is usually when/where farm machinery fails. Thank you for these practical tests, Ciao, L (Morningside and Starshine "Project" Farms).
Great tests as usual, Todd! It has long been rumored that the Daytona jacks are made in the same factory as Snap On. I tend to believe that based on my personal experience (heck, even the wheels are the same despite the diameter being slightly bigger for the snap on). We've purchased three Daytonas for our shop and they have never missed a beat in 3+ years of hard use, despite being exposed to very harsh, sandy desert conditions out here and lifting everything from Toro lawnmowers all the way up to Massey Ferguson hay swathers. People like to poo-poo on anything from Harbor Freight, but the Daytona jacks are hands down one of the best purchases you can make there. Professional grade all the way.
It wouldn't surprise me if they are made in the same factory. I bought a 3 ton Torin Super Duty last winter & it looks identical to the Daytona & Snap On..
I bought an steel arcan 3.5 ton Jack probably 15 years ago from Costco. It’s been the best Jack and has never given me any issues. Best thing is that it cost less than $100
I bought the Husky jack about 4 years ago as my first floor jack. So far, it’s held up well with regular use with no maintenance done to it yet. I only paid $119 plus tax when it was on sale at Home Depot. One of the best automotive tool purchases I have made. I thoroughly enjoyed the video, as always!
Every video on this channel is a learning experience. I have been using the same floor jack for 20 years and have never even checked the oil level. After watching this video, I will go ahead and fill the oil level in my 20 year old jack that has worked great since day one and still works great.....
So glad I found your channel. I don't know if you realize but you are a true champion of the consumer. Your depth of testing is so eye opening and your objective analysis is outstanding.
Daytona makes a "Low profiel, long reach" model which has a longer and flatter saddle. I bought it several years ago and love it! The only jack I've found that fits under my car with ease.
Might be a bit of a strange idea, but a test on tarps would be nice. Though I'm not sure how many tests could be performed outside of durability like tearing and wearing through from use, and weather resistance. Suppose weight capacity could be tested as well.
Yes quality Tarps cost an absolute fortune these days and don't really last that long, but do they come branded and how can we really know who makes them.
“The Maasdam was built on a Monday” I laughed too much at this. Or it may have been built on a Friday and they just wanted to leave. Great video as usual Todd.
Think about Scotty Kilners line for his prizes: leave a non-offensive comment in the box below; or whatever it is he states each time. Apparently some of the viewers get a little off at times
I like his vids because he doesn't ramble. Lots of people (way too many) want to tell their life story and turn a 5 minute video into an hour. This is all meat and no filler. Thanks!
I recommended it and you actually did it!!!! A MILLION THANKS!!!!!! Got the Pittsburgh jack hoping it would be worth more than the price, your video proves it. I wish I could subscribe twice lol.
I bought the same DJ3000 Daytona floor jack several years ago, got it on sale for, I think $200. Excellent performance so far. I have used it to jack up my 4 x 4 Dodge Ram, 4 x 4 Dodge Dakota and my Dodge Dakota R/T. It has worked perfectly every time. Keep up the great tool reviews and comparisons. Your no nonsense scientific approach and accurate reporting makes your UA-cam channel the go to channel for tool and product reviews.
I bought a Daytona 3 ton low profile jack last week. I was glad to see in your review that it was money well spent. Thank you so much for taking the time to create these very informative videos.
I have a mobile work van and mostly lift a few hundred pounds. I have a small Pittsburgh low profile that I use most often. For the occasional heavy lifting, I have the Arcan. It is very well built, good looking and the aluminum construction makes it actually portable. If you are looking for something that won't wear you out or break your back taking it in and out of a mobile service vehicle the Arcan is it.
This is by far the most useful content on UA-cam I'm very glad you are being rewarded for all your hard work. I love how you put all the over priced tools to the test and manage to prove that just because something is expensive does not mean it's the best.
Great test. A mention of warranty for each Jack would be a nice addition. I had one of those mini floor jacks from Walmart that lasted 20 years, then after it died, I bought one that looked just like it at an auto parts store - which died within it's one year warranty.
Was is the MVP brand? I've had one for over 20 years and it's still going strong. It's a great help when doing ball joints and suspension work cause of it's size.
I've had an Arcan for a couple of years now and I absolutely love it. I've had no issues with it and you can't beat the weight, especially if you move it from job site to job site. Great comparison, as always!
Wow! Great review and I like your style of straight to the point and no BS. I like your fast talking and fast cuts. It makes the video so much easier to watch and get the information I need vs these guys who ramble on and on. Thank you!
I had heard good things about the Daytona so I recently bought the same model you reviewed, just in the candy apple red variant. Glad to see it was a good purchase compared to other choices I could have made. It is a very nice floor jack for the price!
I also bought a Daytona earlier this year in the exact same colour. Absolute beast to use. My bf had an exhaust bolt loosen and all it took was 2 pumps to get a 4000lb vehicle off the ground.
Great work! Have been hoping you’d run a floor jack test and you exceeded expectations, as usual. It’s clear that several of the models are identical in design and likely built by the same source manufacturer. These manufacturers will market a single design to a world of resellers and each reseller can choose to pay less per unit and accept a wider variety of (for example) “minimum acceptable” weld quality or, alternately, pay a little more for more consistent welds that take more time and different skill sets. The Maasdam, Pittsburgh, and Husky are clearly from the same source but each brand pays for the quality that meets their desired price point. Most surprising are the similarities in design and quality of the Daytona and Snap-On jacks where the $720 price premium for the Snap-On boils down to customer expectations for the Snap-On brand. With either brand you get the same 3-year warranty. In the end, the Daytona (and Arcan) proves that $280 is the sweet spot for a high quality and high value 3 ton jack.
Yeah, I have quite well assembled MTX jack and it's about 100 sure that it's essentially same as Maasdam, Pittsburgh and Husky. Solid options for hobbyist imo. I wouldn't be surprised if many of them are built and validated to quality groups even in same factory and offered in different quality and price to resellers.
Great testing as always! I have a 3 ton Daytona. First one had slight leak after 2 weeks. Harbor Freight replaced no questions. Second has performed flawless for 2 years now with lots of use. Really appreciate all you do at Project Farm Todd. Thank you! 👍👍👌
I suggest you do a review/test of jack stands. I have a pair of Harbor Freight 3-ton stands which were recalled and replaced a couple of years ago. I am always leery working underneath a vehicle and use redundant stands for safety. Test modes could include total weight to failure, work height, dynamic stability, ratcheting mechanism release, etc. I really enjoy your videos as they are extremely informative and well done. I am impressed by your creativity and resourcefulness on conducting the tests. Keep up the good work.
Yes, and if you can include a cross-comparison between the common triangular base ones (with and without secondary safety bar on the sawtooth vertical lift post, and those that use a solid pin-and-hole design vs. sawteeth), and a category comparison against the "tripod style" (e.g., ESCO 10498 and now Harbor Freight's new Daytona copy). Thanks!
Thanks for all your hard work on these videos. I’ve actually had the 4 ton variant of the Daytona lineup for few years now and absolutely love it. It does recommend topping off the fluid before first use, and for that I got some higher quality fluid from an auto parts store as opposed to harbor freight’s in house bottle.
Seems like most of HF's consumables seem to be priced in the ball park of known good by other Manf's. If they'll put melamine in their domestic children's formula, I don't doubt they'll cheap out on anything. Yeah, its an extra stop at the big box or auto store.
I have the Arcan Jack and an engine leveler as well. I bought them because it looked like the best bang for the buck. Couple years later I find this video by chance. Had I have seen this before buying the Arcan, it would made me not even consider another brand. I have a feeling it'll be in my garage 30-50 years from now. GREAT quality
@@ProjectFarm if you haven't yet, you should do a review on engine levelers. I have an AC Delco and a Craftsman...the Craftsman broke pulling a 4 cylinder....but the AC Delco pulled my Cummins no problem which weighs over twice as much as the 4 cylinder
I bought the Daytona last year after reading good reviews. I’m very happy with it so far. I’ve used it probably 6 times. I love how fast I can jack up my classic Mercedes which weighs 4,376 lbs and the other 3,600 lbs. Now I’m looking into some jack stands that are safe and budget friendly. I always slide the wheel under the car just in case.
I really enjoy watching your test videos. I have made several purchases bases on your tests and this was one of them. I have never liked any of the floor jacks that I have ever purchased. Some of them turned out to simply be unsafe. One of the unsafe ones was the Black Jack floor jack. The first jack of the two that I purchased simply would not work properly. I returned it and took another one home to try. It worked fine for the first 3 or 4 uses but then it suddenly failed while I was under the vehicle. Thankfully I had jack stands in place that took the load after about 3 or 4 inches of slow to medium pressure failure on the Black Jack. Based on this review, I purchased a Daytona 3 ton. It was like night and day using the Daytona jack. It lifts so much faster and I was able to get the Daytona for around $149 with sale price and a one time coupon. I have used it several times in the last couple of months and I like it more every time I use it. I still put jack stands under the vehicle after I raise it, but the Daytona has never lost pressure. Keep up the good work!
Usually I lower my car onto the stands and remove the Jack completely. I find the Jack tends to get in my way and I feel safer with the weight on the stands which are typically more stable.
I've had the Arcan floor jack for 4 years now and it has been great. The hybrid design (aluminum/steel) makes it lightweight and easy to move and store. I purchased it through Costco for around $100 at the time and it's been a great tool.
I love to see a test on these jacks after a few years of use. I have the Pittsburgh, ive had it for id say at least 10 years...it's quite decent. The only time i ever had it release pressure was when i tried to help level an rv with it. Other than that it's done everything ive ever asked of it with zero issues.
I always type project farm first and then type what I want to see the review of! No nonsense, to the point, comprehensive, honest and fast. Keep it up.
I bought an Arcan about 2 years ago and I'm very happy it did so well on these tests. It has worked great so far and I always appreciate your testing to confirm this!
I bought my Arcan (HJ3000, red) 6 years ago due to its lightweight aluminum-steel construction. Not sure if it's the same as the lime green one in the video as they look different, but it's been working great!
Stellar video and reviews! I have that exact Daytona jack and for the money you CANNOT beat it. The quality feels top notch and there’s usually a coupon for it from Harbor Freight. I’m so impressed with it, I bought a second in a different color!
I also have the 3 ton Daytona, and I'm super-pleased with it. Definitely a better jack in all ways than the Pittsburgh it replaced. Glad to see it perform so well in your testing!
@@DTW-bx2vy lifts quite quickly with no load, once its got some weight on it (like as soon as it contacts the vehicle) it lifts like a jack should in my opinion. Definitely easy to pump, even when approaching its weight limit it only requires a slight bit of "oomph" I've got the Daytona 3 ton low profile long reach. Used it daily in a shop for at least 2 years now.
@@DTW-bx2vy I am sorry to hear about that. Do you have access to an air compressor? There are different types of airbag jacks that are powered pneumatically. Controlled by the push of a button, and much lighter and easier to use than a hydraulic jack. I suppose it wouldn't be a good choice to keep in your vehicle for roadside emergencies due to needing an air supply, but then again I doubt anyone is carrying a full size Daytona jack either. Obviously I don't know your situation so I'm trying not to assume anything here, but it sounds like a pneumatic jack might be a good option for you. That is, if you have an air compressor.
@@DTW-bx2vy I wish I could give you a confident answer here. I have noticed the Daytona definitely is easier to pump than about any other jack I've used for my line of work, including Cornwell, Matco, Strongway, and Sunex. I've never really thought much about it, more than noticing it takes less force. As for whether 25 pounds of force is enough, I don't think I could say with 100% certainty. I can give you my thoughts though. The heavier the vehicle, and also the higher you lift, you usually need more force on the handle. I suspect 25 lbs would likely get the wheels off the ground for something of average weight. Much higher than that, im just not sure. Just today I used my Daytona to lift my Ford Ranger and I didn't find myself pressing hard into the lever at all. Perhaps you could use a "cheater bar" on the end of the jack handle to provide more leverage, thus reducing the force you have to impart, provided you have enough space to pump a longer handle. Something like a larger pipe to fit the outside of the handle, or even a piece of rebar to slide inside the handle. Sorry I can't be more of a help here.
I bought a Daytona long reach jack last year too, on sale for $149. Based on the recommendation from Scotty Kilmer's channel. So far, no problems at all, and brother in law (professional mechanic) who has the Snap On said it seemed to work just as well as the very expensive SnapOn. I truly believe that most of what you're usually paying for with Snap On, is the guy in the truck. Having a tool man come to replace a broken tool in minutes, is worth it when you're in the middle of a job.
I have the arcan jack and I've owned it for the last two and a half years. It's held up great both in the shop and being drug through gravel working outside. Being light was the biggest selling factor to me as I used to constantly put the jack in the bed of the truck for rescue missions.
I have the yellow Daytona which is now offered in "hot lava" red and maybe another color. The $280 Daytona is definitely better than the others at Harbor Freight because if you look carefully, the wide wheels have greaseable zirks and they also have internal bearings. And the handle has an easy pull-out knob to remove the handle. The cheaper Daytona models do not. So side to side with some of the others they look almost identical, but it's these small added features that sold me on it. The wider wheels with bearings also make it much more stable and quieter. I think I paid $250 for it on sale with a coupon in 2016. It's a fantastic jack and ...$750 less than Snap-On. And while the Daytona may have 3/4" less height.. that's $250 more per 1/4". And I think I have $750 worth of scrap plywood laying around lol.
Excellent suggestion: Yes even if you don't need the extra height, rolling the jack onto a rectangular piece of plywood may also help even out some lumps and bumps in the surface of a floor - thus helping the jack when it needs to roll to maintain its safe lifting position as the saddle rises.
Wow. Learned a lot. I remember when I first started working at the dealership when I was 19, (I am 38 now), the craze was snap-on tools. The truck would come every Friday on payday to collect payments and sell whatever they could. Not having any tools, everyone urged me to buy the "best" and so I followed suit and became a slave to snap on lol. I bought everything from that truck from toolboxes to screw drivers. I quickly found out that you were just paying for a name. Quality does come with a price, but so does brand recognition. Like this test. The Daytona is almost identical to the snap on and performs just as well for $720 less. Think about how many tools you could buy with that remaining $720 without compromising quality for your jack. Great video.
One of the best and most thorough tool review channels on UA-cam! Have you ever thought of doing a video comparing impact wrenches that are corded, as in they plug in to a outlet? There's a couple out there from name brands and it would be interesting to see how they compare.
We have an old Blackhawk Jack that’s older than any of us here that still works great! We also have several Daytona Jacks and two Pittsburgh aluminum racing jacks! All work great!
The old Blackhawk Jacks and Walker branded jacks were considered the best of the best before they moved operations to China. My dad and grandfather used Blackhawk and Walker jacks exclusively in a very large commercial tire shop for decades. They used to lift heavy cars when cars were still 5,000 lbs and large pickup trucks, heavy tractors and even semi-tractors with their 2.5-ton Blackhawk and Walker jacks. (Yes a 2.5-ton jack can lift the rear drive axel on a semi tractor that isn't attached to a trailer.) All they ever used were 2.5 ton jacks for everything except when a 12-ton or 20-ton air-powered bottle jack was needed to lift fully loaded semi trucks or loaded 1-ton dually pickup trucks. A good Blackhawk 2.5-ton jack would lift about 90% of everything they faced on a daily basis.
Having purchased a Daytona within this year I can say I've been VERY happy with the overall quality and functionality of the jack. Easily one of the nicest floor jacks I've used in a long time especially when you consider it's value.
I had an old German made Febi Bilstein floor jack with a spindle, the thing was huge and heavy, 130lbs, and even after 60 years or more as good as new apart from some surface rust. Sold it for 50€ because I don't work on cars and don't have the space. Looking at these the buyer got a damn good deal :(
I’ve been a car guy all my life and never given much thought to my floor jacks. This was very eye opening with regard to build quality difference. Going to go look at my jacks now! 😀
yeah get the daytona. I bought it like 1.5 weeks ago and it’s easily the best jack I’ve used. Top notch quality. Don’t cheap out on jacks and stands. A good jack pays for itself the moment it prevents injury and/or damage to your car.
I'd love to see a comparison of different brand's compressors, something like a 20 Gallon upright from each different brand, all with roughly similar specs, designed for home use. Testing things like time to build air, true CFM, and maybe even do a torture test to see how long they can run continuously. A lot of brands lie about CFM and other specs.
I’d love to see this too. Largely small compressors that are likely to be seen in a small home workshop or the portable ones for small jobs (other than pancakes) by companies like Milwaukee, DeWalt, etc.
I have a steel Arcan I bought a few years ago. It looks exactly like the Maasdam or the Husky, but it's red and black. It has great build quality, along the lines of the Husky. It's been a great jack.
Love your content PF! I would love to see a video comparing arborists handsaws. There are so many brands making them these days in foldable and non foldable. They are a must for hunters, gardeners, farmers, aborists, trail riders, and list of others! Thanks for the great content!!
I think I like the arcan most, I prefer relying on hardware over welds as well as that being easier to replace parts if needed and I really like that it's aluminum and that nice handle on the side
To me, being 50 lbs lighter is a huge deal - the arcan aluminum seems like it would be easy to toss into or out of the car or truck if you want to work somewhere different from your regular garage. I have an older 100lb Harbor Freight and I'd never consider travelling with it.
Agreed. If you're using floor jacks often in your shop, the light weight is a big advantage. I've been eyeing that same model Arcan jack for a while to compliment my old boat anchor steel 3ton. This was a great test at the perfect time.
To be fair, these are 3T jacks. Most folks never need to lift 6000#. My largest vehicle weighs in at 6500# and my 2T Alum Jack lifts the front end (heaviest) just fine and it's more portable than a 3T. Were I to need a 3T jack, I suspect the welded steel of most of these jacks will last my lifetime. On the Alum model, you have to check the bolts from time to time. Otherwise, they can become loose and wear down the Alum frame, leading to a potential failure with time and abuse.
I have a low profile, 3 ton Daytona, and it is very nice. I use it frequently, and it is the best jack I have ever owned. The Daytona Jacks are probably one of the best values you can get at Harbor Freight...
My Harbour Freight floor jack( Daytona in orange) has been a great addition to my tool line up. I also have a vintage Craftsman floor jack from the late 1970s that still pulls its weight . Thanks for another fine video. ✌️
Another great test video. I myself would love to see a low price hobby grade plasma cutter comparison at some time. It seems that there are a very large number of them available and trying to pick one is nearly impossible without seeing a side by side shoot out that only Project Farm could do. Maybe also throw in a professional grade unit just to show a comparison to see what you get by spending the extra money. Thanks again for all your play time in your shop, sorry, I mean scientific testing. 😁
Here’s the list of products reviewed. More details in the video description. Thank you!
Black Jack: amzn.to/3SYHrMf
Arcan: amzn.to/3Cb4wp3
Pittsburgh (also available at Harbor Freight): amzn.to/3CfSvPr
ESCO: amzn.to/3Pv1r6r
Husky: amzn.to/3A7QMJk
Maasdam: Available at Home Depot
Daytona DJ3000: Available at Harbor Freight
Snap On: Available at Snap On’s Online Store
Mac tools??
Please test the Pro Eagle and AGM jack locks for floor jacks. Also test and compare the Harbor Freight floor jack cross beam and competitive brands. Summit Racing has some more expensive versions. Amazon has a number of different versions available.
Around the mid 1990's my wife bought me a Sears Craftsman floor jack for Christmas and it wasn't one of those cheap jacks. This was a true professional looking, serious floor jack and I used that thing for years with the two stands that came with it. It was probably one of the best gifts my wife has ever given me, which is what made it so hard to sell in a garage sale after I got sick (Parkinson's) and couldn't maintain our cars anymore. It was just a floor jack but it was very hard seeing that thing roll out of my garage for the last time and into someone else's truck given how useful it had been and who gave it to me. All I can do today is watch videos of other people using these tools but I'll always remember that floor jack.
I've got a craftsman 3 ton from right around 1990. I think it weighs 3 tons. It's been amazing. I'm getting to the age where I do al;most no car work and it's harder to move around, but I still like it.
Dang. My dad is in his mid 70's, but he also has Parkinson's. Kind of the same thing, he can't really do too much nowadays. But he taught me everything I know, and he handed me down enough tools to start my own business. I just turned 44 years old, I'm hoping to be able to work until a reasonable retirement age. Here's hoping my body can keep up another 20 years or so, mechanic work seems to be kind of hard on the body.
Thanks for sharing.
@@frylockthefryman I'm managing okay but I sure miss being able to work on things myself using the great tools I once had. And yes, the old Craftsman tools had great quality and were backed by a no question warranty. Although some Craftsman tools are still great, so much of it is now made in China for the least cost available and it further saddens me knowing how so many of our (USA) brands have fallen into mediocrity. I remember the green Craftsman floor jacks (mine was silver) and they were well made and built to last, and you didn't have to worry about it failing if maintained properly. They just plain WORKED.
@@jtjones4727
You're correct about mechanics having a tough life, try being a diesel mechanic, that's tough, and many times you either need a hoist or forklift to move stuff around. Sometimes it takes muscle to move some things.
Still, any kind of mechanics have a hard life
Best channel on UA-cam, and I tested that!
Wow, thanks!
Lol
very impressive!
Very impressive!
But did you
I bought a Daytona about a year ago based on good online reviews. I promptly came home from Harbor Freight and requested that you do a comparison test of other brands because there were so many other terrible reviews on other jacks. You responded and said thanks for the idea. I was so excited to see this test finally come through.
I've never donated to a Patreon before but I absolutely love your work and appreciate seeing you respond to viewer requests! I will definitely be donating to you because these tests are expensive but important for people's safety and spending money wisely. Thank you for taking the time so that we don't have to.
You are most welcome!
so?...
@@martinedwards4522 ?
@@mrclean4743 i read it as you were looking for a comparison
😎👍
I review everything before I buy it. This review was by far the best I've ever watched. Not because of the products reviewed but by the way it's done. This review is fast, no BS and covers everything. Much appreciated and you now have a life long follower/subscriber!👍
Thanks so much!
what did you think was the best bank for your buck
Agreed this was a great video with a ton of info. I got my low profile 3 ton from Harbor Freight on a big sale paid under $100 about 7 years ago. Fit nicely under my Monte Carlo and pops my Jeep off the ground with ease. Unless I get something over 5,000 lbs or start doing suspension work on the regular no need to spend more than $150 on a jack
He could slow down the talk, a lot of info to take in rapidly !!!!!!!
The world is a better place with project farm
I have a 3 ton Daytona and it’s a well built and reliable tool.
A rare gem from Harbor Freight.
Great episode 👍🇺🇸
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Yep, only use mine 4-5 times a year, ain't no way I'm paying $750 more!!
@@ProjectFarm None of the things you’re testing really even matter. You’re trading it like we only use Jackson a science lab! Why not test every single Jack on every single car and truck. That’s the real difference!
@@robs1873 Rather odd comment.
@@robs1873 Do it man, Ill check it out on your channel
In our tire shop we actually have the Daytona, Pittsburg, and the snap on on. They get used thoroughly in the shop. Snap on has been the only one to quit on us. But it was under warranty by snap on and they have replaced it after almost a year old. All three jacks are approximately 3 years old now. All still work. The Pittsburg definitely seems the most worn out. Casters are much looser than the other two. But all still work great.
Thanks for sharing.
@Street Performance Bikes "People who buy the most expensive tools are the same ones who live in a 1 bedroom apartment drive a mustang and have a versace shirt or gucci bag. Its all in the mindset.
LOL you just made my day! However, I own 2 homes, have $300K income and drive a Mustang, do I need to rethink my play car decision 😞
@@msk3905 sure you do
I've noticed that SnapOn is now cheap crap with a high price tag. They used to make REALLY high end stuff and a lot of us still have and use those tools but these days they just make crap.
The hand tools were pretty good until a couple of years ago.
@@slalomking BSME, MBA, 26 years experience and an currently an officer for a large company. I am not sorry for the hard work that I put in over my career leading to my success
If there is any channel that truly deserves the YT money, ads and recognition it's this one. Thank you for keeping it honest, and putting in soo much effort in each of your videos. People like you are the true "celebrities" and "stars" of th society, in my eyes!
Thanks so much!
This is the one and only channel I have ever even considered becoming a member/supporter. For the wealth of information provided, two, five, or even ten bucks a month is a steal.
"Thank you for keeping it honest".
Don't get me wrong when I say this, because I COMPLETELY agree with everything that you said. But their's no way to know for sure that he's keeping things honest.
I think he is a very honest person, and DOES test things honestly.
All I'm trying to say is, you don't ALWAYS know when you're being fooled.
Project Farm is so honest, he would be the first to agree with me on this.
As an average/amateur DIYer, I own a Daytona jack for 3 years and I can say it always worked and I never had any mishaps. Great value for money and after watching this video, I bet the folks at Daytona benchmarked the Snap-On jack and simply copied their best bits and sell it at a fraction of the price. Sucks for Snap-On but great for consumers.
Thanks for sharing.
Rumor is Sunnex makes the Daytona and Snap On jacks. I have personally had the opportunity to have them both side by side and I have no doubts they have interchangeable parts. I’m talking down to the hardware it looks to be the exact same. At least the Snap On jack i compared to which was a FJ3000 purchased new in 2016 or 17
I believe snap on tried to sue Daytona years ago but that was dropped when it was found out that snap on was not made in the us but made in China and had the same manufacturer as Daytona
@@naru7777f7 You'd think the lawyers for Snap On would have checked that out first!
F snap on
Your presentation efficiency is second to none. No fluff or wasted time just brass tacks and you present information so succinctly and at great pace that keeps me interested and paying attention. You should give presentation seminars.
Thanks!
Practice makes perfect, you can see the improvement over the years.
I always got that wrong brass tacks vs brass tax. I had to look it up and sure enough I am an idiot. I can now check one more thing off my list that makes me an uninformed idiot. Thanks.
@@daleburnfart6845 Ha I can see how you'd think that since everything is taxed!
@@daleburnfart6845 My friend once used to say "grass tax/tacks" and wondered why I looked puzzled.
I bought the yellow Daytona Jack when it first came out (about 6 years ago) and it was only $180 then. It still makes me happy knowing it was money well spent. The height it reaches for taller vehicles makes a world of difference. Absolutely beast of a jack!
Thanks for sharing.
I got mine 6 or so years ago too, with a sale at HF... paid about $120... best jack I've had!
I just picked up a green one (3 ton super duty) on sale for about $180 after taxes. Glad to see so many positive things affirming the purchase.
I got mine on sale for about $120 if i remember correctly back in 2019.
The Arcan was $99 at Costco in 2019. Now its' $249. Great jack, btw.
After watching for years, I'm still floored with the all testing and explaining of everything. The amount of time you put it into your videos is amazing. Watching the production value go up video after video great to see. Great work
Thanks!
You might be floored, but I'm feeling jacked.
@@Irishcream216 Both your comments are such a 'Let down'....LOL
@@ProjectFarm snap-on has a lifetime warrantee, worth mentioning.
It pays bills....
I don’t have a floor jack nor will I be needing one anytime soon, but this is by far the best informational and educational video I’ve ever seen. This is how tv should be, thank you sir.
Thanks and you are welcome!
I consider aluminum jacks in their own category. Their lightness is so valuable when loading them in and out of trucks and race car trailers that you really wouldn't consider a steel jack for that purpose. I feel like you could do a comparison of aluminum jacks which would be very valuable to those who need to move their jacks frequently and who wouldn't consider a steel jack.
Good recommendation.
I don't know if there are enough to justify their own test, but it is a significant note. Under the circumstance a jack you can one hand lift is a significant change. I have a rebrand of the Arcan picked specifically for that reason.
lifting my snap on in and out of a tall truck bed is killer
Idk, I move my Daytona a few times a month in and out of the trunk of my car. Have had it since 2013. It's heavy sure, but I really don't mind. I might care in another 20 years, but from 24 to 33 it's been fine.
@@benjaminhenry5869 only a few times a month though, if you're doing it multiple times a day...
I always find your creative yet scientific ways of testing anything and everything to be... VERY IMPRESSIVE. Love your channel. Keep up the great work.
Thanks, will do!
@@ProjectFarm You have really set the bar for testing different tools and products keep up the good work and always stay unbiased to everything. Also I do hope you see the test idea in the comments I've pitched for you. I got some ideas and test methods if you want to hear them.
Yeah, that's exactly why I subscribed! Innovative, comprehensive, concise and clear describe his work and for some reason his voice is pleasant unlike some others. Even the graphs are great as they allow a quick reference and make understanding the readings and ratings easy.
One of the things I appreciate most about these tests is your eye for detail (e.g. welds, quality of construction, testing the flavor text) another great test!
Thanks!
This guy is a legend. Wondering if he read all the Consumer Reports issues and finally decided to do his own testing on things that interested him.
@@jbranche8024 Actually, He relies heavily on his viewers suggestions in the comments.
I bought a harbor freight jack about 30 years ago and another one with and adjustable saddle about 20 years ago, both are still working great with no problems. Thanks for the review especially the piece on refilling the jack oil. I am a fan of your reviews because they are thorough and objective. Thanks again for your efforts.
Thanks and you are welcome!
sometimes more expensive doesnt mean better!
Bought a motorcycle floor jack about 20 years ago from HF. I have used it on Road Kings and Heritage Softails and is reliable and I have never felt it being spongy or cheap. Great tool.
Harbor Freight, yeah i remember them from 40 years ago. Nice to know they have maintained - or i hope they have - a high quality company.
Yeah my dad had one maybe 13 years old. Still had it but it's starting to rust and won't stay up long before it starts to slowly creep down. He now bought another Pittsburg jack. After seeing how the original one did I also bought a Pittsburgh as my first Jack. I typically use his tools for major jobs but I wanted my own for oil changes and brake work. Really impressed by his old yellowish orange Jack. Now it's more of a last resort jack but it still lifts!!! (Definitely with Jack stand though)
Man, the Daytona jack is seriously impressive. It looks like it was made to basically never break. Only other one I'd consider besides the Daytona is the Arcan, mostly for its light weight. But I'm still inclined to the Daytona for all the grease ports. More than just being cheap, that's a jack made to be maintained and cared for, and that's something I really appreciate about it.
Thanks for sharing.
the daytona is a great jack compared to most chinese made ones.only down side is its heavy
Serviceability is always a huge item to consider that's what keeps something working properly for the long run. I was surprised when I unboxed my Daytona jack a couple years ago that it had grease zerks on the wheels.
For a workshop the Daytona is the pick but if you do mobile service the Arcan is the obvious choice.
I have both the Daytona and Arcan. I prefer the Daytona for all my jobs in the garage. But when I do work around town I bring the Arcan because it's light enough to lift in my vehicle.
I have the Daytona, and it is a great value. It has a quick lift lever that raises the arm to the point of contact before engaging the load. Saves a lot of time on positioning the jack.
I have a Daytona. It extends high enough for my wife's Honda Pilot but it also has a low enough profile to get under my lowered Hyundai Accent (no I didn't lower it, the dealer did and added a sport suspension for some reason 😄). It's a beefy jack, raises up super quick, and lowers even quicker.
The Daytona would be my choice.
Im going with this brand!
I havent had any issues with my Daytona low profile jack🤘
Usually I end up a little surprised in all your tests, but, here I had not doubt that the Daytona and Snap on would come out on top. That being said, I would buy two Daytona Jacks and two set of jacks stands and still have money left over for a lifetime supply of jack oil, instead of buying a Snap on jack.
Been using the 3-ton Daytona for many years on my Tundra, Camry, and Elantra. Love it. The low profile is excellent for the Elantra, and the lift height is great for my Tundra. Outstanding jack that I wish I purchased long ago. Love this channel, btw. You stress test in ways that I can't even dream up and I watch every upload.. Keep it up, my man!
I hear you. I did not know that they made a low profile floor jack for years, so I always paid people to change my engine oil. Then I bought the low-profile black jack and it has saved me so much money on changing oil, but it does like to settle if you leave load on it.
Accurate, realistic, well thought out testing and video presentation with no pressure to buy.... WIN WIN AND WIN!!! I often reference basically anything mechanical back to this channel prior ro making any purchase. You are educating customers and helping us make more informed purchase decisions!!! 👏🏿!!!!
Thanks so much!
bought a couple daytonas in my shop when they first came around. Used them daily and hit the pressure bypass on each one a couple times a year, and still no problems out of either one. Even the sticker still looks good on one of them.
Great to hear!
I honestly had no idea that I needed to watch videos of extension cord tests or jack tests at 2am in the morning, but here I am. I always agonize over decisions with tools, so these tests are fantastic, thanks so much for what you do!
You are welcome!
When in doubt, buy locally for ease of returns.
I'm only here because I'm procrastinating about opening this letter which I think might be a speeding fine, at 2 in the morning.
Dude. Same.
Lmao it is 2am
I purchased a Daytona a couple years ago because it looked like it was well built and reasonably priced for what it was. I've used it quite a bit over that time and it's worked great. I would have preferred to buy a US made product (Snap On) but it is just too expensive. I could justify it if it were 15/20% more but not 3 times as much.
Thanks for sharing.
snap on made in US??? need to check on that...
It’s not? Then I have zero regrets
Same. I've got the regular Daytona (not the low pro) and it is a sturdy, well made piece of kit. Until the U.S. starts up its factories again, I'll stick with harbor freight for most things because EVERYTHING is made in "chy-na" nowadays.
I figure, if I have to give my hard earned dollars to my enemy, it will be as few dollars as possible.
@@kodoan411 it will never happen that’s how capitalism works companies need to find the cheapest labor
I have the Arcan aluminum 3-ton floor jack. It has been serving me well for the past 10 years. Still look fresh like I just purchased it last week. I used it to lift my 2 SUVs and a sedan, with no issues. I am glad to see it performing well on these tests.
Thanks for sharing.
I have a canadian re-badge of the arcan aluminum, great jack, no problem with my heavy trucks, I'm also in a wheelchair so it being lightweight makes it WAY easier to move around the shop or lift onto my lap if I have to use it in the driveway, I absolutely couldn't lift my old steel jack
I want that Arcan. Lightweight and looks well made. Would it serve me well with a Tahoe and an Accord?
@@MattH-wg7ou mines a re-badger arcan, I have a 3/4ton suburban no problems lifting it, quite lowprofile too so I can't see you having any issues with your accord either
I have the re-branded JEGS version of it. It was great for about 5 years. Then one of the power unit springs got stuck. Won't lift now. Contemplating just buying a new one as I'm having problems finding the replacement part for a reasonable amount.
You have the absolute best testing methods I have ever seen! I love how thorough you are and I appreciate you making these videos especially in todays economy where every dollar matters! THANK YOU!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Bought the Husky about 2 years ago, very happy with it and glad to see it performed well here. "Real" jacks like these are a surprisingly large step up from the smaller portable hydraulic jacks many DIYers have and are definitely worth investing in if you work on your own cars a lot
Agreed, some of the cheaper jacks are at best ,inconvinient and dissapointing. At worst, plain dangerous.
My little Craftsman jack served me well for a number of years, but in hindsight, I wish I had sprung for a bigger, low-profile jack like one of these tested.
I just do regular maintenance and minor repairs with mine, and having a floor jack makes it so much faster, easier, and safer to work on my car.
Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for your content. I have learned a lot from you. I don’t know what your background is but one thing you do know is how to test products way better than consumer reports and we know you’re not controlled by advertising. Thanks for your hard work. You are one amazing farmer.
Thanks and you are welcome!
This is EXACTLY how all comparison videos even how to videos should be done. Quick to the Point and only showing details and whats important. no BS back Stories or Opinions. There's no waste of time! No wonder this vid is popular. Its easy to watch all the way to the end.!
Thanks so much!
Anything PF reviews is like this. This YT channel has saved me so much time and money i could never say TY enough. But Thank You for real PF.
I have four of the 4 ton Daytona jacks and can't imagine life without them. They are absolutely indispensable when working on big diesel trucks. You just can't beat the quality and price.
Thanks for the feedback.
I just can't bring myself to trust a harbor freight jack. Even if it is an exact rip off copy cat of a snap on. That's just me though. I bought my snap on 4 ton for 750 bucks new off the truck. Well worth the money In my opinion
The money spent for the 3 Ton Daytona Jack was definitely a great investment. The low profile gets under any car I've worked on and the height it very nice. I know the sell a wide double pad attachment for doing frame lifting or cross members. When Snap On took Daytona to court for stealing their design and lost I knew it was going to be a hell of a Jack for cheap. Very sweet video Todd
Your not supporting American workers tho. I guess maybe most people don’t care about that tho. Some slave in china is making your jack for a bowl of rice that’s fucked up
I agree, I have the same Daytona jack it's. It's been great for investment. I was actually surprise on how familiar the Maasdam looked to the Daytona jack as well.
yeah that lawsuit seems to be the advertisement harbor freight couldn't get even if they were willing to pay for it!
About to hit 5 years with my Daytona super duty, lifting everything from small cars to full size trucks & SUVs. Never greased it & still smooth as butter. Probably do for a maintenance. Oh & the rear casters come apart for better greasing.
Bought mine on sale for $160 two years ago. Glad I did, they went up in price alot.
I’ve had my Pittsburgh for about 6 years and it’s never failed me. Don’t remember how much I paid for it, but it was an awesome deal, well under what they cost now. Never did maintenance on it (though I probably should) and I’ve used it quite extensively. Will definitely buy another one when/if this one fails. Also, this is one of the best channels on UA-cam. Always look forward to new content on here. Keep rocking.
Thanks, will do! Thanks for sharing.
Have had my Pittsburgh for 10+ yrs. Payed $59 & love it.
I'm on my second Pittsburgh, the first one lasted about 2 years after being used professionally on a regular basis. Then I had to disassemble it and do a small repair during which time I found some warn out components and decided it's no longer safe to use it professionally. It still works, but I only use it very occasionally at my house. The second Pittsburgh is on its second year and it's showing some signs of wear.. Maybe I'll try a different brand next time.
I've had one of those Daytona jacks for maybe 5 years. Been very happy with it. It has good tolerance to side loading, which is something that always concerns me as I don't want my jack breaking sideways on an imperfect lift.
Thanks for the feedback.
Weld-quality had a lot of variance. For something that holds 6000lbs, was nice to see the clean finished welds. Most people probably wouldn't even check. Great thorough review.
Thanks!
I'm not even certified and I cringed at some of those welds.. Terrible craftsmanship.
Yeah, it kind of like, "If they can't get the welds right, then what else didn't they get right"?
@@EnjoyCocaColaLight yeah, some of them reminded me of my welds back in highschool shop class. 😅
@@brandonweigel6309 A simpler time, highschool :D
Very very thorough test! Thank you so much. I don't do any under-car work any more, and wish you had been doing these tests decades ago. I hope people in 2022 realize how lucky they are to have reviews of products done so expertly and honestly. Cheers from Alberta, Canada! :)
Thanks so much!
Snap on lost a lawsuit against harbor freight, the Daytona is made in the same Chinese Factory as the snap on, snap on claimed theirs was made in the USA, but claimed the Daytona stole their design, when in fact it was just being made in the same sweatshop!! Snap on who claimed theirs was made in the USA embarrassed dropped the suit!
I wonder how many companies do that bcs I’m sure it’s A LOT? Like “Made In the USA” is pretty vague… like what part was made? The concept, design, manufacturing?? There’s a lot that goes into taking a product from concept to customer and w how unregulated companies are when it comes to marketing claims (and so much more) I’m sure if just a certain percentage of it is done in the US they can make the claim.
I went down the rabbit hole of the mattress industry when we needed a new one. I ultimately ended up sourcing components myself and made my own (DO RECOMMEND, btw), but the sh*t they pull is mind blowing. There was a video I saw of a dude cannibalizing a Serta (I think) to take the good components and replacing the worn ones, and as he was removing the layers of this queen size mattress and inspecting them he pulled out a yoga mat sized “gel foam layer.” They literally only need to put a dash of a component in to be able to claim it’s a “gel foam mattress.” 🤯😠 Guess that’s what we get for having weak regulations on companies or former board members/CEOS of said companies doing what little regulation there is. 🤷🏻
Thanks for the info: I started looking for one of these and there seems to be more than one "Daytona" model--> do you know which model(s) of the Daytona were "very similar" to the Snap On? I used to want to "buy American" but large companies, for lots of reasons, don't use the same definition as we would, so that makes it easier for me to buy something made abroad. I would be using to work on a Japanese (non USA) car anyway :)
@@gotflute123 Who pays $1000 for a jack? You might as well get a hoist at this point.
@@kirkbrown2147 I have no idea who pays $1000 for a jack...? I don't understand your reply...?
@@bigboreracing356 Dude, they lost the lawsuit, do your homework, they claimed all of their stuff was Made in the USA until very recent. they changed the verbiage due to being laughed at. come back anytime with your butt hurt self. How else would they have lost in court!!
Update! Based on this review, I just bought the Daytona (in metal flake red since it was on the top of the stack and these things are heavy). Needed it to level a shipping container (8,200 lbs empty). First, those big wide wheels make it somewhat easily transportable across dirt or grass. I used two each large pieces of 5/8" plywood under the wheels to keep the jack from sinking once in place. Keep in mind that a shipping container is a very rigid steel box, so jacking just a corner up raises the whole end of the container(4,200lbs roughly). I was able to pump the jack one handed to the desired height and nothing creaked or groaned on the jack while I placed additional blocks under the container.
Money well spent so far!
Nice! Thanks for the feedback.
Just use bottle jacks
Sounds like he possibly had clearance issues and bottle jacks are not exactly low profile.
@@h8GW dig out what you need. Im jacking 2 now 6ft high with 2 bottle jacks
How was it $99 ?? We paid $199 on sale
That Arcan is amazing!!! I've had mine about 2 years now. AAA quality and performance and OMG it's so easy to move around and carry being so light. Well worth the extra price for the ease of mobility
Thanks for the feedback.
I took the side handles off mine for better clearance when installing jack stands.
I bought my arcan from costco 6 years ago for $100 great lightweight jack that punches above its weight
@@christophers707 me too! I bought two of them. A 2.5 ton and a 3
When seeing the weight of the others I was like "oh geez!" I always have to carry my jack around as I can't roll it to where I need it. It weighs about half that of the Daytona so I'm sold.
"We'll go over how to know when your jack needs oil, and how to add oil, later in the video."
Above and beyond in both his testing and presentation, as well as in his attentiveness. I love this man.
Thanks!
Yep, it is the little things.
@@ProjectFarm No problem. You didn't have to teach us that, but you did anyway. You're a great educator.
I bought a new floor jack based on this review. Also, I have bought many other tools based on your reviews. My favorites are my knipex tools, gear wrench ratchets, irwin side cutters, and many quarts of seafoam. Good tools are hard to come by, good tool reviews are even harder to find, thank you for your straightforward and honest tests, followed up by real world opinion. Well done!
Thanks so much!
Well, now that we have this, I suppose we need a jack stand showdown as well. Could do rated weight, time on stand (in theory should be indefinite, but hey), and angled capacity since not all garages and driveways are perfectly flat and sharper angles can significantly compromise the strength of the jack stand.
And test if you can disengage the jack stand with a load on it. Harbor Freight had to recall a bunch of theirs years back because of this, causing a safety risk.
I still have a set on the recalled jack stands from harbor frieght if project farm wants to test em with it😆
@@summervillesean I replaced the pins with quick release pins, the ones with the ball on the end. Makes it hard for them to slip out.
Could see how fast they sink into blacktop too!
@@cowrocket3870 - I always place my jack stands on 3/4” plywood (get construction scraps out of dumpster if I need to replace)
Daytona jack seemed pretty comparable to the snap on jack for the price difference I think most people could over look the smaller front wheels and the slight difference in the rise height.... 300$ vs 1000$ is an impressive savings for a few minor differences
Fairly certain the took snap on’s patent on the design. Snap on tried to sue but the time ran out on the patent or something like that
Worth noting the Daytona is literally 99% the same as the Snap-on. As in the same factory makes both jacks. HF got sued by Snap-on for this and won!
Some of HF's ICON tools are giving Snap-on tools much grief. Like their torque wrenches.
Thanks for the feedback.
@@ShitboxShenanigans the patent running out was a good thing for customers now they have other options other then snap on over pricing their tools and accessories.. don't get me wrong here snap on is a great company but competition keeps prices competitive
This just in time, started looking at floor jacks this past weekend. And the Daytona has been my front runner for price and by the quality of the build. Thank you again for doing these tests to help the folks who can't do all these wonderful tests. Your tests with charts and covering the information that is most helpful!
Thanks and you are welcome! Glad to hear!
I’m sure you are aware but make sure to get a 20% off coupon before the purchase. With Labor Day coming up there will be sales and flyers. Sometimes those coupons don’t work on that jack so sales might be the best time to jump on a new one.
See my video of why I wont use daytona. Ive seen 3 of these jacks unable to hold the load.
@@fixitallpaul4847 Just searched your videos twice and couldn’t find any video about Daytona jacks.
@@fixitallpaul4847 Thanks for sharing the info. I'm a very light user of them and I always support with stands when getting under.
Excellent presentation (as always). Something I would emphasize for farmers/ranchers who may have to use a jack "in the field", consider the weight of the jack. It appears that as I got older, my tools got heavier! A light jack like the Arcan is very useful when it comes down to raising an implement/implement part off the ground in awkward positions/location which is usually when/where farm machinery fails. Thank you for these practical tests, Ciao, L (Morningside and Starshine "Project" Farms).
You are welcome!
Great tests as usual, Todd! It has long been rumored that the Daytona jacks are made in the same factory as Snap On. I tend to believe that based on my personal experience (heck, even the wheels are the same despite the diameter being slightly bigger for the snap on). We've purchased three Daytonas for our shop and they have never missed a beat in 3+ years of hard use, despite being exposed to very harsh, sandy desert conditions out here and lifting everything from Toro lawnmowers all the way up to Massey Ferguson hay swathers. People like to poo-poo on anything from Harbor Freight, but the Daytona jacks are hands down one of the best purchases you can make there. Professional grade all the way.
Great to hear!
You sold me, where could I buy it in Europe 😂
@TheCheesePlease They had one model that had issues. I've bought some from them and had them for years with zero issues.
It wouldn't surprise me if they are made in the same factory. I bought a 3 ton Torin Super Duty last winter & it looks identical to the Daytona & Snap On..
@TheCheesePlease you know Snap On has had recalls for jacks and stands also right?
I bought an steel arcan 3.5 ton Jack probably 15 years ago from Costco. It’s been the best Jack and has never given me any issues. Best thing is that it cost less than $100
It seems everyone got that Costco Arcan lol.
Great jack at a great price!
We're gonna need Todd to test that.
I got it too, its a really good jack
I got that same deal for the red hybrid jack. I love it, and 10 years later it’s still going strong.
I bought the Husky jack about 4 years ago as my first floor jack. So far, it’s held up well with regular use with no maintenance done to it yet. I only paid $119 plus tax when it was on sale at Home Depot. One of the best automotive tool purchases I have made. I thoroughly enjoyed the video, as always!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Every video on this channel is a learning experience. I have been using the same floor jack for 20 years and have never even checked the oil level. After watching this video, I will go ahead and fill the oil level in my 20 year old jack that has worked great since day one and still works great.....
Thanks for sharing.
So glad I found your channel. I don't know if you realize but you are a true champion of the consumer. Your depth of testing is so eye opening and your objective analysis is outstanding.
Thanks!
The Jack Reacher (pun intended!) test was genius. How often you have to slip the jack far underneath the car to reach the lift point? Great job PF!
Good point!
That was a good point as I hate it when my jack will reach but you cant use the handle to raise it because it hits the underbody etc.
It's not that uncommon to get a car started into the air from a safe lifting point.
@@timrobertson299 That's the biggest problem I have with my Acdelco floor jack.
All depends on the car. I have worked on several where the "textbook" lifting point is very deep.
Daytona makes a "Low profiel, long reach" model which has a longer and flatter saddle. I bought it several years ago and love it! The only jack I've found that fits under my car with ease.
Thanks for the feedback.
The Pittsburgh also makes a a low profile version mine is over 8 years old and still works perfectly. I lift trucks and big caddies weekly with it .
Picked up the Pittsburgh 3 ton low profile today for Black Friday for $94.99. An amazing deal I’m so happy.
Nice!
Might be a bit of a strange idea, but a test on tarps would be nice. Though I'm not sure how many tests could be performed outside of durability like tearing and wearing through from use, and weather resistance. Suppose weight capacity could be tested as well.
I'd appreciate that!
This ^
@@hydorah me too
Thanks for the suggeston.
Yes quality Tarps cost an absolute fortune these days and don't really last that long, but do they come branded and how can we really know who makes them.
“The Maasdam was built on a Monday” I laughed too much at this. Or it may have been built on a Friday and they just wanted to leave. Great video as usual Todd.
Yeah that looked like Friday after lunch build quality.
Or Mandatory overtime Saturday.
or a tuesday , weds, thurs....
Thank you!
Like the old saying, "The first five days after the weekend are the worst." Another great job, Todd. Thanks.
If I’m buying something I always check this channel to see if it’s been tested. Family friendly and honest reviews, what more could you ask for?
Thanks!
Think about Scotty Kilners line for his prizes: leave a non-offensive comment in the box below; or whatever it is he states each time. Apparently some of the viewers get a little off at times
I like his vids because he doesn't ramble. Lots of people (way too many) want to tell their life story and turn a 5 minute video into an hour. This is all meat and no filler. Thanks!
I recommended it and you actually did it!!!! A MILLION THANKS!!!!!! Got the Pittsburgh jack hoping it would be worth more than the price, your video proves it. I wish I could subscribe twice lol.
You are welcome and great choice on the Pittsburgh
I bought the same DJ3000 Daytona floor jack several years ago, got it on sale for, I think $200.
Excellent performance so far.
I have used it to jack up my 4 x 4 Dodge Ram, 4 x 4 Dodge Dakota and my Dodge Dakota R/T.
It has worked perfectly every time.
Keep up the great tool reviews and comparisons.
Your no nonsense scientific approach and accurate reporting makes your UA-cam channel the go to channel for tool and product reviews.
Thanks, will do!
I bought a Daytona 3 ton low profile jack last week. I was glad to see in your review that it was money well spent. Thank you so much for taking the time to create these very informative videos.
You are welcome!
I have a mobile work van and mostly lift a few hundred pounds. I have a small Pittsburgh low profile that I use most often.
For the occasional heavy lifting, I have the Arcan. It is very well built, good looking and the aluminum construction makes it actually portable. If you are looking for something that won't wear you out or break your back taking it in and out of a mobile service vehicle the Arcan is it.
Thanks for the feedback.
This is by far the most useful content on UA-cam I'm very glad you are being rewarded for all your hard work. I love how you put all the over priced tools to the test and manage to prove that just because something is expensive does not mean it's the best.
Thanks!
Yup this video helped so much. Iwas deciding whether to get the Pittsburgh or the Daytona and now the choice is clear!
Snap on beats all
Great test.
A mention of warranty for each Jack would be a nice addition.
I had one of those mini floor jacks from Walmart that lasted 20 years, then after it died, I bought one that looked just like it at an auto parts store - which died within it's one year warranty.
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
Was is the MVP brand? I've had one for over 20 years and it's still going strong. It's a great help when doing ball joints and suspension work cause of it's size.
i have a craftsman i bought 31 years ago its still good but love my new daytona long reach lopro
@@mercedes-amgforlife3237 yes it was
I've had an Arcan for a couple of years now and I absolutely love it. I've had no issues with it and you can't beat the weight, especially if you move it from job site to job site. Great comparison, as always!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
It was on sale for close to $200 a few years back. Very happy with my purchase!
My Arcan won't pick up my Volvo as well as my Napa 3 ton.But the difference in weight is fantastic. Especially in the gravel I can position it easily.
Wow! Great review and I like your style of straight to the point and no BS. I like your fast talking and fast cuts. It makes the video so much easier to watch and get the information I need vs these guys who ramble on and on. Thank you!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I had heard good things about the Daytona so I recently bought the same model you reviewed, just in the candy apple red variant. Glad to see it was a good purchase compared to other choices I could have made. It is a very nice floor jack for the price!
Thanks for the feedback.
I also bought a Daytona earlier this year in the exact same colour. Absolute beast to use. My bf had an exhaust bolt loosen and all it took was 2 pumps to get a 4000lb vehicle off the ground.
Great work! Have been hoping you’d run a floor jack test and you exceeded expectations, as usual. It’s clear that several of the models are identical in design and likely built by the same source manufacturer. These manufacturers will market a single design to a world of resellers and each reseller can choose to pay less per unit and accept a wider variety of (for example) “minimum acceptable” weld quality or, alternately, pay a little more for more consistent welds that take more time and different skill sets. The Maasdam, Pittsburgh, and Husky are clearly from the same source but each brand pays for the quality that meets their desired price point. Most surprising are the similarities in design and quality of the Daytona and Snap-On jacks where the $720 price premium for the Snap-On boils down to customer expectations for the Snap-On brand. With either brand you get the same 3-year warranty. In the end, the Daytona (and Arcan) proves that $280 is the sweet spot for a high quality and high value 3 ton jack.
Thanks!
Yeah, I have quite well assembled MTX jack and it's about 100 sure that it's essentially same as Maasdam, Pittsburgh and Husky. Solid options for hobbyist imo. I wouldn't be surprised if many of them are built and validated to quality groups even in same factory and offered in different quality and price to resellers.
Great testing as always! I have a 3 ton Daytona. First one had slight leak after 2 weeks. Harbor Freight replaced no questions. Second has performed flawless for 2 years now with lots of use. Really appreciate all you do at Project Farm Todd. Thank you! 👍👍👌
Thanks and you are welcome!
I suggest you do a review/test of jack stands. I have a pair of Harbor Freight 3-ton stands which were recalled and replaced a couple of years ago. I am always leery working underneath a vehicle and use redundant stands for safety. Test modes could include total weight to failure, work height, dynamic stability, ratcheting mechanism release, etc. I really enjoy your videos as they are extremely informative and well done. I am impressed by your creativity and resourcefulness on conducting the tests. Keep up the good work.
Thanks, will do! Thanks for the suggestion.
Yes, and if you can include a cross-comparison between the common triangular base ones (with and without secondary safety bar on the sawtooth vertical lift post, and those that use a solid pin-and-hole design vs. sawteeth), and a category comparison against the "tripod style" (e.g., ESCO 10498 and now Harbor Freight's new Daytona copy). Thanks!
Thanks for all your hard work on these videos. I’ve actually had the 4 ton variant of the Daytona lineup for few years now and absolutely love it. It does recommend topping off the fluid before first use, and for that I got some higher quality fluid from an auto parts store as opposed to harbor freight’s in house bottle.
You are welcome! Thanksk for sharing.
Seems like most of HF's consumables seem to be priced in the ball park of known good by other Manf's. If they'll put melamine in their domestic children's formula, I don't doubt they'll cheap out on anything. Yeah, its an extra stop at the big box or auto store.
I have the Arcan Jack and an engine leveler as well. I bought them because it looked like the best bang for the buck. Couple years later I find this video by chance. Had I have seen this before buying the Arcan, it would made me not even consider another brand. I have a feeling it'll be in my garage 30-50 years from now. GREAT quality
Thanks for sharing.
@@ProjectFarm if you haven't yet, you should do a review on engine levelers. I have an AC Delco and a Craftsman...the Craftsman broke pulling a 4 cylinder....but the AC Delco pulled my Cummins no problem which weighs over twice as much as the 4 cylinder
I bought the Daytona last year after reading good reviews. I’m very happy with it so far. I’ve used it probably 6 times. I love how fast I can jack up my classic Mercedes which weighs 4,376 lbs and the other 3,600 lbs.
Now I’m looking into some jack stands that are safe and budget friendly. I always slide the wheel under the car just in case.
Thanks for sharing.
@@ProjectFarm sure!
I really enjoy watching your test videos. I have made several purchases bases on your tests and this was one of them. I have never liked any of the floor jacks that I have ever purchased. Some of them turned out to simply be unsafe. One of the unsafe ones was the Black Jack floor jack. The first jack of the two that I purchased simply would not work properly. I returned it and took another one home to try. It worked fine for the first 3 or 4 uses but then it suddenly failed while I was under the vehicle. Thankfully I had jack stands in place that took the load after about 3 or 4 inches of slow to medium pressure failure on the Black Jack. Based on this review, I purchased a Daytona 3 ton. It was like night and day using the Daytona jack. It lifts so much faster and I was able to get the Daytona for around $149 with sale price and a one time coupon. I have used it several times in the last couple of months and I like it more every time I use it. I still put jack stands under the vehicle after I raise it, but the Daytona has never lost pressure. Keep up the good work!
Thanks, will do! Thanks for sharing.
Usually I lower my car onto the stands and remove the Jack completely. I find the Jack tends to get in my way and I feel safer with the weight on the stands which are typically more stable.
I am endlessly impressed at how clearly and quickly you are able to impart information. It is quite a skill.
Thanks!
I've had the Arcan floor jack for 4 years now and it has been great. The hybrid design (aluminum/steel) makes it lightweight and easy to move and store. I purchased it through Costco for around $100 at the time and it's been a great tool.
Thanks for sharing!
I bought the same one Tom, when I saw it at that price, somehow I got a $10.00 off deal . I paid $90 for it. Nice 3.5 ton jack.
I wish Costco would stock it here in Australia.
They cost $229 now at Costco. Oh well.
I love to see a test on these jacks after a few years of use.
I have the Pittsburgh, ive had it for id say at least 10 years...it's quite decent. The only time i ever had it release pressure was when i tried to help level an rv with it. Other than that it's done everything ive ever asked of it with zero issues.
Thanks for the suggestion.
@@ProjectFarm
I hate it when they put them foam cushions on the handles.
the one on my mower started ripping in no time.
Same with garden tools.
I always type project farm first and then type what I want to see the review of!
No nonsense, to the point, comprehensive, honest and fast. Keep it up.
Thanks, will do!
I bought an Arcan about 2 years ago and I'm very happy it did so well on these tests. It has worked great so far and I always appreciate your testing to confirm this!
Thanks for sharing.
I bought my Arcan (HJ3000, red) 6 years ago due to its lightweight aluminum-steel construction. Not sure if it's the same as the lime green one in the video as they look different, but it's been working great!
Stellar video and reviews!
I have that exact Daytona jack and for the money you CANNOT beat it. The quality feels top notch and there’s usually a coupon for it from Harbor Freight. I’m so impressed with it, I bought a second in a different color!
Thanks for the feedback.
I also have the 3 ton Daytona, and I'm super-pleased with it. Definitely a better jack in all ways than the Pittsburgh it replaced. Glad to see it perform so well in your testing!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
@@DTW-bx2vy lifts quite quickly with no load, once its got some weight on it (like as soon as it contacts the vehicle) it lifts like a jack should in my opinion. Definitely easy to pump, even when approaching its weight limit it only requires a slight bit of "oomph" I've got the Daytona 3 ton low profile long reach. Used it daily in a shop for at least 2 years now.
@@DTW-bx2vy I'd say it's fast but very solid - very predictable. Recommended.
@@DTW-bx2vy I am sorry to hear about that. Do you have access to an air compressor? There are different types of airbag jacks that are powered pneumatically. Controlled by the push of a button, and much lighter and easier to use than a hydraulic jack. I suppose it wouldn't be a good choice to keep in your vehicle for roadside emergencies due to needing an air supply, but then again I doubt anyone is carrying a full size Daytona jack either. Obviously I don't know your situation so I'm trying not to assume anything here, but it sounds like a pneumatic jack might be a good option for you. That is, if you have an air compressor.
@@DTW-bx2vy I wish I could give you a confident answer here. I have noticed the Daytona definitely is easier to pump than about any other jack I've used for my line of work, including Cornwell, Matco, Strongway, and Sunex. I've never really thought much about it, more than noticing it takes less force. As for whether 25 pounds of force is enough, I don't think I could say with 100% certainty. I can give you my thoughts though. The heavier the vehicle, and also the higher you lift, you usually need more force on the handle. I suspect 25 lbs would likely get the wheels off the ground for something of average weight. Much higher than that, im just not sure. Just today I used my Daytona to lift my Ford Ranger and I didn't find myself pressing hard into the lever at all. Perhaps you could use a "cheater bar" on the end of the jack handle to provide more leverage, thus reducing the force you have to impart, provided you have enough space to pump a longer handle. Something like a larger pipe to fit the outside of the handle, or even a piece of rebar to slide inside the handle. Sorry I can't be more of a help here.
I really really appreciate the information you have included at the 15 minute mark of how to assess if ones jack needs more oil. thanks so much!!
You are welcome!
I bought a Daytona long reach jack last year too, on sale for $149. Based on the recommendation from Scotty Kilmer's channel. So far, no problems at all, and brother in law (professional mechanic) who has the Snap On said it seemed to work just as well as the very expensive SnapOn. I truly believe that most of what you're usually paying for with Snap On, is the guy in the truck. Having a tool man come to replace a broken tool in minutes, is worth it when you're in the middle of a job.
I have the arcan jack and I've owned it for the last two and a half years. It's held up great both in the shop and being drug through gravel working outside. Being light was the biggest selling factor to me as I used to constantly put the jack in the bed of the truck for rescue missions.
Thanks for sharing.
It looks to me by far the best. At least the design is different, and the building construction is clearly superior.
Same here. It is my go to when I need it bring a jack somewhere. The aluminum is very nice. My 3.5 ton craftsman is far too heavy.
I have the yellow Daytona which is now offered in "hot lava" red and maybe another color. The $280 Daytona is definitely better than the others at Harbor Freight because if you look carefully, the wide wheels have greaseable zirks and they also have internal bearings. And the handle has an easy pull-out knob to remove the handle. The cheaper Daytona models do not. So side to side with some of the others they look almost identical, but it's these small added features that sold me on it. The wider wheels with bearings also make it much more stable and quieter. I think I paid $250 for it on sale with a coupon in 2016. It's a fantastic jack and ...$750 less than Snap-On. And while the Daytona may have 3/4" less height.. that's $250 more per 1/4". And I think I have $750 worth of scrap plywood laying around lol.
Excellent suggestion: Yes even if you don't need the extra height, rolling the jack onto a rectangular piece of plywood may also help even out some lumps and bumps in the surface of a floor - thus helping the jack when it needs to roll to maintain its safe lifting position as the saddle rises.
Wow. Learned a lot. I remember when I first started working at the dealership when I was 19, (I am 38 now), the craze was snap-on tools. The truck would come every Friday on payday to collect payments and sell whatever they could. Not having any tools, everyone urged me to buy the "best" and so I followed suit and became a slave to snap on lol. I bought everything from that truck from toolboxes to screw drivers. I quickly found out that you were just paying for a name. Quality does come with a price, but so does brand recognition. Like this test. The Daytona is almost identical to the snap on and performs just as well for $720 less. Think about how many tools you could buy with that remaining $720 without compromising quality for your jack. Great video.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Some harbour freight and snapon jacks are literally the exact same jack from same factory with different stickers for $700 less.
One of the best and most thorough tool review channels on UA-cam! Have you ever thought of doing a video comparing impact wrenches that are corded, as in they plug in to a outlet? There's a couple out there from name brands and it would be interesting to see how they compare.
Thanks for the video idea.
Oh yesss !! I would like to see a test on that !!!
@@ProjectFarm who makes Earthquake " they seem to punch hard
Had my daytona for 3 years, Been loving it the moment I got it! Love the guide on how to oil the jack too!
Great feedback on the Daytona! Seems very well built!
@@ProjectFarm really well built! Only thing I've had issues with is the paint on the handle, Makes sense though, I use the handle as a cheater bar 🤣
We have an old Blackhawk Jack that’s older than any of us here that still works great! We also have several Daytona Jacks and two Pittsburgh aluminum racing jacks! All work great!
Nice! Thanks for sharing!
The old Blackhawk Jacks and Walker branded jacks were considered the best of the best before they moved operations to China. My dad and grandfather used Blackhawk and Walker jacks exclusively in a very large commercial tire shop for decades. They used to lift heavy cars when cars were still 5,000 lbs and large pickup trucks, heavy tractors and even semi-tractors with their 2.5-ton Blackhawk and Walker jacks. (Yes a 2.5-ton jack can lift the rear drive axel on a semi tractor that isn't attached to a trailer.) All they ever used were 2.5 ton jacks for everything except when a 12-ton or 20-ton air-powered bottle jack was needed to lift fully loaded semi trucks or loaded 1-ton dually pickup trucks. A good Blackhawk 2.5-ton jack would lift about 90% of everything they faced on a daily basis.
Having purchased a Daytona within this year I can say I've been VERY happy with the overall quality and functionality of the jack. Easily one of the nicest floor jacks I've used in a long time especially when you consider it's value.
Thanks for the feedback.
I love my 3 ton daytona! Works great and made nicely
I had an old German made Febi Bilstein floor jack with a spindle, the thing was huge and heavy, 130lbs, and even after 60 years or more as good as new apart from some surface rust.
Sold it for 50€ because I don't work on cars and don't have the space.
Looking at these the buyer got a damn good deal :(
Thanks for sharing.
I’ve been a car guy all my life and never given much thought to my floor jacks. This was very eye opening with regard to build quality difference. Going to go look at my jacks now! 😀
Heard about the whole snap on Daytona jack debacle years ago ,glad to see a real test finally.
Buy a Daytona
I've had my Daytona jack for about 6 years now. It's holding up great!
If you don't have an aluminum jack, get one. You will fall in love. Just make sure you only use it on pretty level surfaces.
yeah get the daytona. I bought it like 1.5 weeks ago and it’s easily the best jack I’ve used. Top notch quality. Don’t cheap out on jacks and stands. A good jack pays for itself the moment it prevents injury and/or damage to your car.
I'd love to see a comparison of different brand's compressors, something like a 20 Gallon upright from each different brand, all with roughly similar specs, designed for home use. Testing things like time to build air, true CFM, and maybe even do a torture test to see how long they can run continuously. A lot of brands lie about CFM and other specs.
Goodyear oil free 20gal vs Mcgraw oiled 20gal vs Craftsman 20 gal.
That would be a very expensive test. Rremember he pays for all the tools with the help of donations.
I’d love to see this too.
Largely small compressors that are likely to be seen in a small home workshop or the portable ones for small jobs (other than pancakes) by companies like Milwaukee, DeWalt, etc.
Thanks for the suggestion.
I have a steel Arcan I bought a few years ago. It looks exactly like the Maasdam or the Husky, but it's red and black. It has great build quality, along the lines of the Husky. It's been a great jack.
Thanks for sharing.
Excellent test. Your ability to develop a range of tests that completely tell all the pertinent information is very commendable. Thanks again.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Love your content PF! I would love to see a video comparing arborists handsaws. There are so many brands making them these days in foldable and non foldable. They are a must for hunters, gardeners, farmers, aborists, trail riders, and list of others! Thanks for the great content!!
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
I think I like the arcan most, I prefer relying on hardware over welds as well as that being easier to replace parts if needed and I really like that it's aluminum and that nice handle on the side
When's the last time you replaced frame parts on a jack...lol
To me, being 50 lbs lighter is a huge deal - the arcan aluminum seems like it would be easy to toss into or out of the car or truck if you want to work somewhere different from your regular garage. I have an older 100lb Harbor Freight and I'd never consider travelling with it.
Agreed. If you're using floor jacks often in your shop, the light weight is a big advantage. I've been eyeing that same model Arcan jack for a while to compliment my old boat anchor steel 3ton. This was a great test at the perfect time.
@@OffTheBeatenPath_ not the frame lol the bolts and stuff
To be fair, these are 3T jacks. Most folks never need to lift 6000#. My largest vehicle weighs in at 6500# and my 2T Alum Jack lifts the front end (heaviest) just fine and it's more portable than a 3T. Were I to need a 3T jack, I suspect the welded steel of most of these jacks will last my lifetime. On the Alum model, you have to check the bolts from time to time. Otherwise, they can become loose and wear down the Alum frame, leading to a potential failure with time and abuse.
I have a low profile, 3 ton Daytona, and it is very nice. I use it frequently, and it is the best jack I have ever owned. The Daytona Jacks are probably one of the best values you can get at Harbor Freight...
Thanks for the feedback.
My Harbour Freight floor jack( Daytona in orange) has been a great addition to my tool line up. I also have a vintage Craftsman floor jack from the late 1970s that still pulls its weight . Thanks for another fine video. ✌️
I've got an old 60s Sears 1.5 ton floor jack ,it leaks a little but they lied on the rating ,it'll lift a dually pickup.
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
@@MrTheHillfolk Yeah, they under-rated them back then & over-rate them now.
Oh this is a great one to test! Love how you conduct tests, really thorough!
Thank you very much!
Another great test video.
I myself would love to see a low price hobby grade plasma cutter comparison at some time. It seems that there are a very large number of them available and trying to pick one is nearly impossible without seeing a side by side shoot out that only Project Farm could do. Maybe also throw in a professional grade unit just to show a comparison to see what you get by spending the extra money.
Thanks again for all your play time in your shop, sorry, I mean scientific testing. 😁
Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.