How to Lower a Jack?
3 Answers
When lowering a hydraulic jack, simply loosen the hydraulic locking bolt, and the jack will descend under the weight of the lifted object. When lowering a mechanical jack, you need to reverse the locking pin and then turn the handle in the opposite direction of lifting to achieve lowering.
I often use a jack to change tires, and here are the detailed steps. First, make sure the car is parked on a flat and stable surface, and engage the handbrake to prevent rolling. Then, locate the jack's control handle and slowly turn it counterclockwise—this will gradually lower the car body. Don’t rush; lowering it too quickly may damage the car or cause injury. Once the car is fully on the ground and you’ve confirmed it’s safe, fold the jack and put it back in its place. Remember, keep the jack clean to prevent rust, and check its flexibility before each use to save a lot of trouble. In practice, many people turn it the wrong way—turning clockwise will raise it instead, so just be patient. Regular maintenance, such as applying lubricant, can extend its lifespan.
Last time I had a flat tire and after changing it, I didn't know how to lower the jack. After learning, I first secured the car well, making sure it's on level ground and the handbrake is firmly engaged - that's crucial. Then I turned the handle counterclockwise; it made squeaking noises as the car slowly descended. You've got to do it steadily, not jerking the handle. After safely lowering the car, I folded the jack properly and stored it in the car's tool compartment. A reminder to everyone: never operate on slopes to avoid rollover risks. When not in use, keep the jack dry to prevent rust and jamming. From my experience, this skill is easy to learn but requires attention to details.
