Hydraulic Jack [The Best Workshop Options]

The hydraulic jack is an important piece of equipment in the day-to-day life of an auto repair shop, as its function is to lift loads with ease.

Find out in this article what types of hydraulic jacks there are, what their purpose is and some safety tips you should adopt when using them.

 

What is the Hydraulic Jack?

The hydraulic jack is used to lift heavy objects by applying hydraulic pressure.

This mechanical equipment consists of a piston cylinder with a set of valves and hoses that connect to a source of hydraulic oil.

In turn, the oil is used as the working fluid to transmit the force from the piston to the object to be lifted.

 

What is the Hydraulic Jack for?

In the case of a mechanic’s workshop, the hydraulic jack is used for tasks that require lifting the car, such as changing a flat tire or carrying out repairs and maintenance (for example, changing the oil or repairing the engine).

On the other hand, this equipment is indispensable for suspending a vehicle on car jack stands.

 

How does a Hydraulic Jack Work?

The operation of this hydraulic equipment is based on Pascal’s Law, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted in all directions in equal proportions.

This principle allows a small force applied to a small piston to be converted into a larger force on a larger piston, making it easier to lift heavy loads.

 

 

What Types of Hydraulic Jack Are There?

The most common types of hydraulic jacks are:

 

Hydraulic Bottle Jack

The bottle jack is the least complex, but it is the one that performs best in the most basic situations.

Because of its simple design and small size, it is the ideal model to put in the trunk of a car or in a tool box.

 

Hydraulic Wheel Jack

This is the most common type of jack in the workshop, as it lifts all types of vehicles, whether light or heavy cars.

Since it’s a longer jack, it can relatively easily reach the vehicle’s chassis supports that are further inside the body.

 

Hydraulic Transmission Jack

To help with the removal and installation of a transmission, a hydraulic transmission jack is indispensable.

As well as providing a great level of stability, it also helps to securely support the transmission.

 

Hydropneumatic Jack

As the name suggests, this is a type of jack that is both hydraulic and pneumatic.

Despite being the heaviest type of jack, it brings with it the safety of a pneumatic system combined with unprecedented strength.

 

• Workshop Tool Display [Best Options]

 

What are the Advantages of Hydraulic Jacks?

Compared to other methods of lifting loads, hydraulic jacks are an asset for your mechanical workshop.

The advantages of this mechanical equipment include:

 

1. Lifting capacity

Due to their considerable strength, these devices can lift very heavy loads with ease.

In addition, hydraulic jacks are suitable for both passenger cars and trucks, as there are various models with different lifting capacities available.

 

2. Efficiency and Ease of Use

Compared to other manual methods, these mechanical devices allow you to lift heavy loads with less physical effort.

Most of the models available on the market simply operate a lever, making them easy to use.

 

3. Security

By providing a solid and stable base during the lifting process, hydraulic jacks help you comply with safety rules at work and minimize the risk of accidents.

 

4. Simplified Maintenance

Generally speaking, these devices require very little maintenance, simply checking the oil level regularly and inspecting for any leaks or worn parts (e.g. wheels).

On the other hand, they are designed to withstand high loads and wear, providing a long and reliable service life.

 

Where to Buy a Hydraulic Car Jack?

You can buy this lifting tool from an official KROFtools dealer or a store specializing in automotive tools.

 

Which Hydraulic Jacks are Available in the KROFtools Catalog?

To improve the quality of the service you provide to your customers, you can find the following hydraulic jacks in the KROFtools catalog:

 

Bottle Jack

 

 

The bottle jack pictured supports up to 20 tons, allowing you to lift vehicles between 243 and 453mm.

Click on the image to find out more about the Bottle Jack 20 tons (ref. 4720).

However, on our website, we have bottle jacks available that support from 2 to 50 tons.

 

Hydraulic Jack

 

 

With the hydraulic jack in the picture, you can lift vehicles to a minimum height of 160mm and a maximum height of 685mm.

Once you have lifted the vehicle, you must support it on trestles or other appropriate means, in the areas specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

Click on the image to find out more about the 10-ton hydraulic wheel jack (ref. 4907).

 

Transmission Jack 500Kg

 

 

This lifting device is used as an aid when removing and installing a transmission or differential as individual components. Therefore, you should not use it for other purposes.

Click on the image to find out more about the 500Kg transmission jack (ref. 4825).

However, on our website, we have transmission jacks available that can support anything from 500 kg to 1 ton.

 

Pneumatic jack

 

 

This lifting system has a slow-down valve and an overload safety valve, as well as an oil non-return system, for safer operation.

Click on the image to find out more about the 10/20/40TON pneumatic oil jack (ref. 4812).

 

What is the Price of a Hydraulic Jack?

The price can vary depending on the type, lifting capacity, brand and quality.

Generally speaking, the price of a 2T hydraulic jack can be in the tens of euros, while one with a 12T capacity can easily exceed hundreds of euros.

 

How do you choose the right Hydraulic Jack for your workshop?

First of all, you need to check the weight of the vehicles you usually repair in the workshop in order to choose the most suitable capacity.

Also pay attention to the lifting height of the jack. Make sure it can lift vehicles to the height needed to repair the car comfortably and that it can be positioned under low-profile vehicles.

Try to choose a model that offers additional safety, such as valves that block accidental lowering and a stable working base.

Finally, consider mobility and storage space. A jack with wheels will be easier to move around the workshop.

 

What are some Tips for Keeping your Hydraulic Jack in Good Condition?

All tools used in a workshop must comply with a number of safety regulations, including hydraulic jacks.

In this regard, you should take the following precautions:

• Do not move or swing the vehicle while it is on the jack;
• Use trestles or other appropriate means of support to keep the vehicle raised;
• Lift the vehicle only in the areas specified by the manufacturer and with the appropriate adapters, if necessary;
• Do not stand under the vehicle while the hydraulic jack is the only support;
• Replace worn parts on the hydraulic jack (wheels, rubbers, etc.).

Looking to find out more about the automotive world? Then follow us on Facebook and keep up with all the content we share on a daily basis.