LINKS

We recommend the Porta-Power, a hydraulic tool our team and full-time contractors use in our shops every day. If you're working with more than just a few sets of slings, this tool can save you a lot of time and effort.

They typically cost around $120 and are a great value for the work they do.

Click the image below to view it on Amazon, where we currently purchase ours. With Prime shipping, it’s an easy and affordable addition to your shop.

Have questions? Send us a message—we’re happy to help.

In the past, we did not typically recommend this style of tool due to concerns about strength and torque. However, many customers have reported excellent results with the DeWalt XL Series and the Jorgensen 36" Heavy-Duty Spreader/Clamp.

We have since added a couple to our own shop and found they perform very well on approximately 80% of frames. The reversible ends allow the tool to be used to pull welded frames together or to spread frames apart, making it a versatile option for a variety of applications.

For many frames, using more than one clamp at a time provides better control and more even pressure when adjusting the frame.

At around $45, they offer excellent value.

Click the image below to visit the product page.

Other options include using car jacks (like the ones commonly included with most vehicles) or small 2–4 ton bottle jacks to help spread frames when needed.

Some shops also create a simple spreading tool using two pieces of wood and a hinge, though this is a more basic method.

Depending on the situation, you may need to use cut pieces of 2×4 or 2×6 lumber to extend the reach and allow the frame to meet properly, helping prevent damage such as stripped screws.

See the images below for examples.