Mechanics use a variety of tools and equipment to repair and maintain vehicles. One common tool is the mechanic’s creeper, which is a wheeled platform that mechanics lay on to slide under a vehicle to access the underside. Mechanics creeps allow mechanics to lay flat on their backs and smoothly roll under vehicles to inspect, repair, and maintain a vehicle’s underbody components like the transmission, oil pan, exhaust system, and more. Mechanics creeps make accessing and working on the underside of a vehicle more efficient, comfortable, and safer.
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What is a Mechanic’s Creeper?
A mechanic’s creeper is a wheeled platform that mechanics lay on to slide under a vehicle to access the underside components. It allows mechanics to lay flat on their backs and smoothly roll under vehicles on wheels rather than sliding on their backs across a garage floor. Here are some key features of mechanic’s creepers:
- Low Profile Platform – The platform is very low to the ground, usually 2-3 inches thick, to allow the mechanic to easily slide under a vehicle.
- Wheels – Creepers have wheels on the bottom to roll smoothly on garage flooring. The wheels are wide to prevent tipping and rolling.
- Padding – The platform is padded with vinyl, foam, or other materials to provide cushioning and comfort while laying on it.
- Headrest – Most models have a headrest at one end to support the head while laying down.
- Tool Trays – Some models have built-in tool trays to hold tools, parts, and supplies when rolling under a vehicle.
- Ergonomic Shape – The platform is shaped ergonomically for the mechanic’s body with cutouts for the arms and face.
- Durable Construction – Creepers are made from sturdy materials like metal, hard plastics, and padded vinyl to support weight and withstand garage use.
Overall, a mechanic’s creeper allows a mechanic to comfortably and safely access the underside of a vehicle during repairs and maintenance. It serves an important ergonomic purpose for mechanics.
Why Do Mechanics Use Creepers?
There are several key reasons why mechanics use creepers as an important part of their work:
Access Underside of Vehicle
The primary function of a mechanic’s creeper is to provide easy access to the underside of a vehicle. The low profile and wheels allow a mechanic to smoothly roll under a jacked up vehicle to inspect components like the transmission, oil pan, exhaust pipes, chassis, brakes, fuel systems, and more. Without a creeper, a mechanic would have to lay on the hard floor and awkwardly shimmy underneath.
Comfortable Working Position
Laying on a padded mechanic’s creeper is far more comfortable than laying on a hard garage floor. The cushioning helps take pressure off the mechanic’s back, neck, shoulders, hips, and other body parts when working under a vehicle for extended periods. This helps reduce strain.
Mobility
The wheels on a mechanic’s creeper allow for excellent mobility to roll smoothly in and out from underneath vehicles. This allows mechanics to access various points underneath quickly. The wheels also allow bringing tools and parts along.
Safety
Using a mechanic’s creeper is much safer than laying directly on the ground under a jacked up vehicle. The creeper’s low ground clearance helps prevent the supported vehicle from crushing the mechanic in the event of a fall or slip of the jacks. The creeper also provides barrier protection from spilled fluids and dirt.
Increased Productivity
Having free range of motion underneath a vehicle on a creeper allows mechanics to complete jobs more efficiently. The improved access, comfort, and mobility lead to faster service work, benefitting both mechanic and vehicle owner.
Reduce Strain and Injury
Using a mechanic’s creeper instead of laying on hard floors reduces strain on the neck, back, hips, and joints while working under vehicles. This helps reduce repetitive stress injuries that can cut careers short. Proper ergonomics is crucial for mechanic safety and longevity.
Types of Mechanic’s Creepers
There are a few main types of mechanic’s creepers that provide the core function of sliding under vehicles with some differences:
Standard Creepers
The standard creeper is the most common and affordable option for most mechanics. Key features:
- Vinyl or plastic platform
- Padded cushion
- Basic headrest
- 4-6 caster wheels
- 250 lb weight capacity
- Economical pricing around $40-$100
Standard creepers provide the basic functions at an accessible price point.
Multi-Position Creepers
Multi-position creepers allow some adjustment of the platform for multiple working positions:
- Articulating pads allow adjusting head/torso
- Removable/flip headrests
- Padded elbow rests
- Larger weight capacities of 400-500 lbs
- More expensive $150-$300 range
The adjustability accommodates more working positions and larger mechanics.
High Lift Creepers
High lift creepers raise up higher off the floor for improved access:
- Scissor lift or hydraulic cylinders
- Lifts up to 24 inches high
- Higher weight capacities around 500 lbs
- Most expensive models over $400
The increased height improves access to very high clearance vehicles.
Folding Creepers
Folding creepers are collapsible for transport and storage:
- Hinged or sliding platforms
- Fold down into a slim profile
- Take up less storage space
- Lightweight models under 20 pounds
- Range from $50-$200
Folding creepers save space in tight shops and garages.
Key Features of Quality Creepers
When investing in a mechanic’s creeper, there are a few key features to look for in a quality model:
Padding
Thicker padding provides better comfort and support when laying on the creeper. 2-3 inches of high density foam or vinyl padding is ideal.
Wheel Quality
Look for wide polyurethane wheels that roll smoothly and prevent tipping. Ball bearing swivel casters are best.
Construction
Heavy duty steel frames withstand heavy use. Plastic platforms should be reinforced. Look for at least a 250 lb capacity.
Adjustability
Flexibility in platform positions, removable headrests, and articulating pads provide better ergonomic options.
Low Clearance
A low profile of 2-3 inches high allows rolling under low vehicles. Lower is better for access.
Storage
Creepers that fold or have removable wheels help with storage in tight shops.
Tool Trays
Built in trays provide handy transport of tools, parts, and fluids under vehicles.
Prioritizing these key features helps identify a mechanic’s creeper that will provide better comfort, safety, durability, and access during automotive work.
Top Brands of Mechanics Creepers
There are many manufacturers that produce quality mechanic’s creepers. Some of the top brands include:
Lisle Corporation
Lisle makes some of the most heavy duty steel framed creepers that can support up to 400 lbs. They offer innovative designs like adjustable padding, removable headrests, and folding platforms. Based in Iowa, Lisle creepers range from $60-$400.
Omega Mechanics Creepers
Part of Omega Lift Equipment, Omega Creepers feature unique shapes to the padding platform to better contour shoulders and arms. Models like the Z-Creeper offer good value at around $70.
Torin Big Red
Big Red is known for creepers that provide excellent padded comfort for larger frame mechanics. Their creepers range from $70-$250 for standard and high lift models.
ATD Tools Creepers
ATD Tools offers affordable basic creepers around $40 as well as higher end models. Unique designs like their under mechanics seat model provide flexibility.
Pro-Lift Creepers
Pro-Lift makes over 20 unique creeper designs including small plastic portable units alongside large professional multi-position units. High quality with models from $55-$400.
These major brands provide options from basic to advanced mechanic creepers to suit various budgets and needs.
How to Use a Mechanic’s Creeper Safely
While mechanic’s creepers provide important benefits, they must be used properly to ensure safety. Here are some tips for safely using a creeper:
– Inspect the creeper before each use – Make sure padding is in good condition, wheels roll smoothly, and all fasteners are secure. DO not use if damaged.
– Only use on flat, smooth garage floor surfaces – Uneven surfaces can cause creeper instability.
– Wear snug fitting clothes – Loose clothing could get caught in moving wheels.
– Make sure the vehicle is properly supported on jack stands – Use jack stands or vehicle lifts to support at proper weight points before going underneath.
– Avoid excessive loads – Do not exceed weight limits which are typically 250-500 lbs.
– Use caution when rolling under vehicle – Carefully roll under and avoid bumping heads on undercarriage parts.
– Don’t leave tools on the creeper unattended – Remove tools before rolling out from under the vehicle.
– Work with a partner if possible – Having someone outside monitoring safely is ideal.
– Keep hands/limbs away from moving wheels – Be aware of hand positioning when rolling in and out.
– Lock caster wheels before standing up – This prevents tipping hazards.
Using proper precautions helps mechanics stay safe and prevent injuries when using these essential tools. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
Maintaining Mechanic’s Creepers
Like any frequently used automotive tool, proper maintenance is key to getting the most life and performance from a mechanic’s creeper. Here are some tips for maintaining creepers:
– Keep wheels cleaned – Remove any debris in wheels/casters that could impede rolling.
– Lubricate wheel axles – Use light oil or silicone spray to prevent rust and keep wheels rolling smoothly.
– Inspect condition – Check for cracking/tears in padding and replace if needed. Tighten any loose hardware.
– Check fasteners – Periodically tighten any loose bolts or connections. Do not operate if any component is unstable.
– Clean upholstery – Use mild soap and water with a rag to clean stained or soiled padding and upholstery.
– Wipe frame – Keep frame free of dirt, grease, and grime to prevent abrasion damage to padding.
– Touch up paint chips – Use matching paint to touch up any scrapes or exposed metal on the frame.
– Storage – Keep creeper in clean dry area when not in use to prevent rusting.
Properly maintaining a mechanic’s creeper helps it last for years of reliable use. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Conclusion
Mechanic’s creepers are an invaluable tool for safely accessing and working underneath today’s low profile vehicles. Their wheeled platforms and low height provide access while padded cushions allow comfortable positioning under vehicles. Standard creepers provide budget-friendly basic functions while higher end models offer improved ergonomics and access. When shopping for a mechanic’s creeper, look for padding, construction, wheel quality and adjustability features to suit your needs. With proper maintenance and safe usage practices, a quality creeper will provide years of smooth-rolling service.