1) Ergonomics
2) Cost
3) Construction
4) and Function
Being a physical therapist by profession I do support heavily the "proper ergonomics" argument, but if you were to ask my "complete" opinion on the subject this post would be a lecture that could get quite hairy. Trust me this review does not need to be that complication since we are all looking for the same thing, that is a cheap, safe and functional tool which we can abused day in day out, and replaced economically (if need be). I've evaluated several seats over the years, from the cheapo Harbor Freight option to the most expensive Kreepstool, and came to an honest conclusion on the subject. Here is what I have tried so far
1) Standard creeper seat (I believe it was from Sears for around $25)
2) An adjustable pneumatic creeper seat (from Harbor Freight for about $25)
3) An adjustable Traxion (purchased online $125)
4) Kreepstool (borrowed valued at $180)
**One I wanted to try before writing this review was the Racatac but at $225, I did not see the value of the investment despite the ergonomics
Without dragging this review let me give you my winner and personal recommendation, that is the Northern Tools "Big Red" seat (made my Torin), which can be purchase for $50 (less if you use the discount coupon). But WHY?? In evaluating all of those seats I evaluated them for cost, function and ergonomics, and I feel the Torin "Big Red" was the best without breaking the bank.
Here is a side by side of 3 creeper seats I have in my shop (two of which are destined for the landfill)
So what makes it a winner??
Construction:
- Chrome plated heavy gauge steel square tubing
- Plastic tray insert
- Allen head flush bolts with lock washer
- Sealed bearing 3 INCH wheels
- Wide padded seat
- Bottle holder/cupholder
- Max weight capacity is 400lbs
Here is a glamour shot of the stool in action over the weekend. Note the CarPro red masking tape which I will review, and the PF2500 (my preferred compound) sitting nicely in the cup holder.