More and more car garages are using car jack stands to avoid workplace accidents and being crushed to death.
According to a Portuguese research project, one of the most significant risks to professionals working in car garages are heavy loads and falling objects, which often result in people being crushed.
As such, jack stands are becoming more and more popular in the automotive industry. But what are they, and what is their purpose? Keep reading!
Although a hydraulic car jack may be useful when changing a car tyre during a trip, it’s not the best option for carrying out vehicle maintenance. In such cases, it is best to resort to a jack stand.
What is a car jack stand?
A jack stand is, put simply, a tool used in a car garage to support the weight of a vehicle while preventive maintenance or repairs are carried out.
It comprises a base, a vertical column, and an upper platform, which supports the vehicle’s weight.
What are car jack stands used for?
As has been stated previously, car jack stands are used to support the weight of vehicles during maintenance or repair services. They ensure the vehicle’s stability and safety while a mechanic does their work.
As such, jack stands are often used to carry out tasks such as:
- Oil changes;
- Tyre changes;
- Brake inspections;
- Wheel alignment;
- Suspension replacements.
Hydraulic jacks are generally used to lift vehicles, with jack stands then placed underneath to support their weight.
How do car jack stands work?
Once vehicles are suspended in the air, jack stands can be placed under the vehicle’s support (or jacking) points, which are generally located on the sides of the vehicle, generally in front of or behind its rear wheels.
Some vehicles do not have support (or jacking) points. In these cases, the jack stand will need to be placed under the chassis.
What types of vehicle jack stands are there?
Several types of jack stands are available for use in car garages. Some of the most common types include:
-
Steel jack stands
Steel jack stands have a wide base and a height-adjustable top platform to suit different types of vehicles.
These jack stands can generally withstand considerable amounts of weight and are often used in conjunction with hydraulic jacks;
-
Aluminium jack stands
Aluminum jack stands are lighter than steel jack stands and are therefore easily moved and adjusted. They are usually used in garages that work with lighter vehicles;
It is important to remember that there are advantages and disadvantages to using each type of vehicle jack stand, so it is important to select the correct type for the work to be carried out and for the type of vehicle to be lifted.
In addition, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s usage instructions and apply the appropriate safety measures when using jack stands in car garages.
Top tips for using car jack stands
Vehicle jack stands can hold several tonnes. As such, it is essential that you follow the applicable workplace safety rules to avoid accidents. Ensure you:
- Read the vehicle’s instruction manual to ensure you position the jack in the recommended location to lift the vehicle;
- Place car jacks on a flat, even surface;
- Place jack stands in the jacking points specified by the manufacturer, ensuring the appropriate load supports;
- Adjust the jack stand to the desired size by pulling the pawl up while raising or lowering the base;
- Check that the jack stand is locked. To do so, simply spring the pawl into the desired toothed section:
- Carefully lower the vehicle;
- Once the jack stand is in place, apply pressure to the car to ensure it has been secured.
- Check for cracked welds and missing or damaged parts. Should you spot any anomalies, you should terminate the process immediately.
Which car jack stands are available in the KROFtools catalogue?
We’ve made sure to provide several jack stands that support different weights in the KROFtools catalogue, allowing you to improve the services provided to your customers in your car garage.
3-Tonne car jack stand
Able to support vehicles weighing up to 3 tonnes, this jack stand has a minimum height of 290mm and a maximum height of 430mm.
Click on the image to find out more about our 3-Tonne car jack stand (ref. 4853).
6-Tonne car jack stand
Able to support vehicles weighing up to 6 tonnes, with a minimum height of 410mm and a maximum height of 590mm.
Click on the image to find out more about our 6-Tonne car jack stand (ref. 4856).
How much does a car jack stand cost?
Buying a car jack stand for your car garage does not need to cost you hundreds of euros. However, it all depends on the characteristics of the car jack you choose, as well as the brand and material it is made from.
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