BIG RED TR4053-2 Hydraulic Telescoping Transmission Jack

Curated from 83 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: January 18, 2025

BIG RED TR4053-2 Hydraulic Telescoping Transmission Jack

Brand: BIG RED
Price: $170
Snoop Score:
5.7
Sentiment
6.7
Popularity
9.0
Technical
4.5

Snoop's Take

The BIG RED TR4053-2 Hydraulic Telescoping Transmission Jack is a versatile tool designed to assist mechanics in safely lifting and installing transmissions in vehicles. With a lifting range of 49.6 inches to 68.7 inches and a capacity of 1/2 ton (1000 lbs), it is suitable for both in-ground and above-ground lifts, making it an essential addition to any garage or shop setup. Consumer feedback highlights the jack’s lightweight and portable design, with one user noting, "It’s convenient cuz it’s pretty light and easy to scoot around." Many users appreciate its effectiveness in handling heavy transmissions, stating, "This worked great for installing a FWD transmission, the cheaper red/silver Pittsburgh one is TERRIBLE." However, some concerns were raised regarding stability under heavy loads and the effectiveness of the safety chain, with a user recommending, "Only recommendation is to get a ratchet strap as well." Overall, the BIG RED TR4053-2 Hydraulic Telescoping Transmission Jack is recommended for its category, particularly for those who value ease of use and effective lifting capabilities, despite some potential concerns about its rated capacity and safety features.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Transmission Jacks

It’s convenient cuz it’s pretty light and easy to scoot around.

Positive Feedback

That scissor Jack one is a worthless piece of shit unless you only need it a couple of times.

Negative Feedback
Product
5.7
BIG RED TR4053-2 Hydraulic Telescoping Transmission Jack
Automotive Transmission Repair
5 / 10
Light Truck Maintenance
5 / 10
DIY Home Garage Projects
5 / 10
Industrial Automotive Service
5 / 10
See how this compares to all Transmission Jacks

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Lightweight and portable
It’s convenient cuz it’s pretty light and easy to scoot around.
Yeah the portability and small footprint of the 450 is really appealing.
Effective for heavy transmissions
Fun fun...
I’m really pleased with it.
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 in depth review after 12,000 KM – Is it a good beginner bike? A good tourin
How many floor jacks do you have/need?
Easy maneuverability with the adjustable saddle
This makes it easier because of being able to maneuver the top plate around pretty much anyway you need.
Effective for installing transmissions
This worked great for installing a FWD transmission, the cheaper red/silver Pittsburgh one is TERRIBLE.
Good weight capacity
So pretty good weight capacity 😭
Solid construction and reliability
They are solid. Easily time I ever had shelling out some cash for a quality product.

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
450lb jack may lack stability for heavy loads
That scissor Jack one is a worthless piece of shit unless you only need it a couple of times.
Safety chain may not hold transmission securely
Only recommendation is to get a ratchet strap as well, that chain doesn't hold the transmission quite as tight as I'd like.
Rated capacity may not be accurate
I can't imagine that it's actual capacity is half of the rating, not and still get 4+ stars.

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Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
User experiences with different vehicles
Pole Barn Garage used it all thru his 4x4 van build.
General information about jack oil filling
Do car jacks already come with oil? Or do you have to add oil for the first use? Looking to get this
Jacks are generally filled and sealed at the factory.
I have that jack and it comes with oil and instructions on swapping that oil out when the time comes.
However I purchased a transmission jack from Habor freight that came without oil.

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Preference for ramps over jacks for oil changes
For oil changes I use ramps. Saves a bit of time.
DIY solutions for jack modifications
There's no specific need for a tranny jack.
ghetto as hell, but it got the job done.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Preference for larger jacks for better performance
I am always of the opinion you get the biggest you can afford.
It’s a pain in the ass to rotate tires with one Jack.
Preference for this jack over cheaper alternatives
I bet that would be a whole lot better!
Need for additional height for low profile cars
Still have to roll up on 2x4s before getting enough clearance for the jack.
Concern about clearance for jack stands
My lift gets the car over my head... Not sure why you're worrying...
Comparative lifespan of different jacks
A Harbor-Freight Jack will last about 3-5 years until the seals fail.
Preference for other types of jacks
Harbor freight has one for ~100 used it during mine and a floor jack to shift engine around.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Inconvenience of transmission weight and handling
It was not fun.
Challenges of using jacks in difficult environments
required two jacks, and two jack stands, various pieces of wood for leverage, and many, many tears.

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