A mechanic’s job isn’t as dirty as you might assume. While, yes, sometimes you’re neck-deep in oil, a meticulous mechanic keeps their garage spotless.
But sometimes, you just don’t want to be on the floor no matter how clean it is. And besides, concrete is pretty uncomfortable.
This is where the mechanic’s creeper comes in. You can simultaneously slide under a car while staying comfy and clean.
But there are so many choices. How do you choose a creeper that’s best for you?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Let’s roll on and see what makes a good creeper.
1. Maneuverability
Depending on how fast you need to be, maneuverability might be at the top of your list. Getting jobs done quickly could be a pain in the back if you have a cart that doesn’t move laterally or diagonally.
And the types of ball bearings in your wheels might affect how smoothly you move from spot to spot. According to bestfloorjack.com, the best mechanics creeper usually includes urethane ballbearing wheels for smooth transitions.
Oversize wheels might help smoothen out your ride as well.
2. Budget
This might depend on whether you’re a hobbyist or a full-time mechanic. And if you’re a full-time mechanic, are you supplying your whole shop or just buying one for yourself?
If you’re buying for a whole shop, you need to think about your baseline budget. What can you get that will last and be cost-efficient. Ask yourself, “if I go for the cheap option, am I getting what I pay for?”
If you’re a hobbyist and aren’t going to be putting the cart through its paces, you might be able to get by with a cheaper option.
Carts often run anywhere from $35 to $150. But more expensive creepers do exist.
3. Comfort
If you’re looking to buy for your whole mechanic’s shop, listen to this next sentence carefully. Back pain causes 264 million lost work days per year.
Even if you’re buying for yourself, do you really want to mess up your back?
You can get creepers with wood or molded plastic backs. These might be the cheap options. If you’re going to spend a decent amount of time on your cart, you might want to avoid these materials.
Instead, go for a model with a solid frame. Get something with a solid backboard and thick padding. Lastly, consider an adjustable headrest.
If you’re having to work on a particular spot under a car for a while, you’re gonna strain your neck unless you support it.
4. Space and Size
What kind of vehicles will you be under? If you’re under low riders and can only jack them up so much, you’ll want something minimal.
If you’re going to be under a jacked up truck, you want something that can almost turn into a seat and raise you up.
You might want to consider your own height too. Will it accommodate your length? Be sure to try a few out before committing.
Be Picky When Choosing a Mechanic’s Creeper
The choices are many, but the right choices are few. Keep that in mind when choosing a mechanic’s creeper.
What models have you found most useful? Let us know in the comments below.
