Floor jacks are a useful tool for repairs that need you to lift your vehicle off the ground, like changing tires and inspecting undercarriage components. Safety is key when using a floor jack to lift your vehicle since it is a heavy object, which creates a risk of accidents. Using a high-quality tool with adequate safety mechanisms can prevent accidents when working on your vehicle. Here are safety features to look for when shopping for floor jacks:
Durable Material Options
The material construction of a jack impacts its ability to withstand your vehicle’s weight, contributing to its safety and durability. Heavier jacks made of steel are ideal for heavy use as they are stronger. This allows for years of use before you need a replacement. If you want a jack to bring on road trips, get an aluminum one, as it is lightweight and portable. When shopping for a floor jack, get one with solid and uniform welds and joints, as weak points in the tool can cause failures under load. Look for a jack with a corrosion-resistant finish if you plan to use it in a repair shop.
Various Height Ranges
Jack stands have an adjustable height range that influences the minimum and maximum heights at which they lift vehicles. Check your vehicle’s lowest and highest points to identify the height range to look for in a jack. If you have a vehicle that is lower to the ground, you cannot buy a jack stand that is very high as it might not fit under the vehicle. Instead, you want a shorter jack stand that can accommodate your vehicle’s minimum height. If you drive a lifted off-roader, get a jack with a higher lift height that can raise your vehicle easily.
Overload Prevention Features
Get a jack with safety features that stop it from lifting vehicles beyond its weight capacity. Hydraulic jacks have a safety valve that balances the spring’s force with the pressure inside the main cylinder. When the hydraulic fluid in the jack reaches its safety load limit, the release valve lets the fluid flow back into the reservoir, keeping the jack from lifting. Some jack models have a bypass system that prevents over-pumping. Before buying a jack, confirm that it has a safety valve and other overload protection mechanisms. Learn how the overload prevention features work so you know what to check for when inspecting their functionality.
High Weight-bearing Capacities
When shopping for a jack, look for one with a load-bearing capacity exceeding your vehicle’s weight. This enables it to lift your vehicle even when it is carrying a load that is heavier than normal. Check your vehicle’s weight to have an accurate figure when you go tool shopping. If you are a mechanic and work with different vehicle sizes, get a jack with a high-load capacity. This will allow you to lift vehicles of varying weights. If you are an individual using the floor jack for a personal vehicle, you may be able to find a less expensive floor jack that does not lift as much as industrial-size jacks.
Buy a High-quality Floor Jack
Choosing a high-quality floor jack is necessary for accident prevention during vehicle maintenance activities. The presence of safety features like overload prevention mechanisms, reinforced lifting arms, and stability allows your jack to lift and lower your vehicle without causing damage. Get a jack with a high range and load-bearing capacity that is compatible with your vehicle’s specifications. Look for jacks made with sturdy materials that do not wear easily due to frequent use and are corrosion-resistant. Buy your jack from a reputable seller who deals in high-quality tools to maintain your safety during vehicle repairs.
