What's the difference?
1 of 2
Steel wheels
Steel wheels are less comfortable to ride on, and will wedge into cracks in the concrete.
2 of 2
Urethane wheels
Recessed urethane wheels offer a smoother ride.
If your idea of changing your own oil
is to grab a piece of cardboard and
slide under the car, it’s time to get
with the program: Save your back
and invest in a creeper. They range in
price from $20 to $200, but you don’t
need to spend a fortune. You can get
a darn good creeper for $50 to $100. Here are the four
features to look for in a creeper:
1. A sturdy backboard reduces stress
on your upper and lower back muscles.
Economy models are built with
a thin sheet of plywood. Look for a
reinforced backboard that will support
your back and shoulders.
2. Steel wheels make for rough riding
and they get stuck in every crack.
Rolling off your creeper to free up a
stuck wheel is a real drag. Shop for a
creeper that has urethane ball-bearing
wheels.
3. Make the best use of limited workspace
with a low-profile design.
Recessed wheels get you closer to the
ground and give you more room to
maneuver tools and parts.
4. Wood creepers absorb oil, coolant
and fluids, making every spill last a lifetime.
Instead, look for a creeper with a
heavy-duty chemical- and oil-resistant
fabric and firm padding.
