How to Use a Manual Jack?
2 Answers
Here are the specific steps for using a manual jack: 1. Place a non-slip pad (such as a rubber mat) under the base of the jack, then position the jack under the vehicle for lifting. 2. When the top of the jack contacts the chassis, ensure it is properly supported and lift the vehicle until the wheels are off the ground. 3. Using a jack is very simple, but always remember to keep it level, stable, and slow during operation. It is strongly emphasized never to crawl under the vehicle while using a car jack, as it poses significant risks. Below is some relevant information about jacks: 1. A jack is a compact lifting device that uses a rigid lifting component as its working mechanism to elevate heavy objects within its stroke range via a top saddle or bottom claw. 2. Car jacks can be categorized into four types: rack jacks, screw jacks, hydraulic jacks, and pneumatic jacks. A rack jack consists of a rack, gear, and handle, and operates by turning the handle to raise or lower the rack. 3. Hydraulic jacks are further divided into general-purpose and specialized hydraulic jacks, with a relatively complex working principle. Their advantages include faster lifting speeds and greater load-bearing capacity compared to rack jacks. Screw jacks rely on thread self-locking to support heavy loads and have a simple structure with high weight capacity. However, their efficiency is lower, with slow lifting and fast lowering speeds. Pneumatic jacks are less common and operate by inflating with vehicle exhaust, making them relatively unknown due to their unique usage conditions.
Every time I use a manual jack, it feels like a lifesaver when changing tires. First, find a hard and flat surface, such as a concrete road; dirt roads can easily sink and become unstable. Park the car securely, engage the handbrake, and use wheel chocks to prevent other tires from sliding. Then locate the jacking point on the vehicle chassis—there are marked points—avoid jacking the door or suspension to prevent damage. After positioning the jack, slowly turn the handle to lift the car—don’t rush, just raise it until the tire is 2-3 cm off the ground. Change the tire quickly, wear gloves to prevent slipping, and use a wrench to loosen and tighten the lug nuts. When lowering the car, turn the handle counterclockwise slowly to avoid impact on the wheel hub; remember safety first—never crawl under the car, keep hazard lights on to warn other drivers, and carry a reflective triangle for added security. After use, clean the jack and store it in a dry place to extend its lifespan. I always follow the manual’s instructions to minimize the risk of mistakes.
