How To Use A Car Jack: Foolproof Tactics For Guys!

Looking to master the art of using a car jack? You’ve come to the right place! Knowing how to use a car jack is essential for any DIY project or emergency case. 

About time! Walk through the step-by-step process of safely lifting your vehicle, highlighting the different types of car jacks available and sharing expert tips to make the job easier and safer. 

So, grab your toolbox and get ready to become a car jack pro in no time. Explore the hints to a smooth lift with DriveRevolve!

Which Car Jack Should I Use?

There are two primary car jack options available: scissors and floor jacks. They come for the same purpose (lifting your car) but differ slightly. Let’s see how to tell the two apart. 

Also, contemplate your wants before choosing one.

Floor Jacks:

Floor jacks offer unparalleled stability when facing heavy loads. Equipped with four wheels and a convenient long handle, users can effortlessly maneuver them while utilizing the hydraulic lift to elevate vehicles off the ground.

Ideal for home garage mechanics and those who frequently tinker with their cars, floor jacks are also invaluable in terms of hoisting automobiles onto jack stands. 

Select the jack fitting the specific weight of your vehicle model.

Scissor Jacks:

Scissor jacks are compact and portable, rendering them ideal for on-the-go repairs. Some car manufacturers even include a scissor jack along with the spare wheel. 

Most of them are specifically designed for specific makes and models. They must be used on particular lifting points on the vehicle, which can be found in the owner’s manual.

Unlike floor jacks using hydraulic pumps, scissor jacks rely on a simple screw mechanism to provide lifting power. This allows them to be lightweight and easy to carry around.

When choosing a jack, consider the upkeep and repairs you typically perform on your car. If you frequently handle tasks like changing oil filters or brake pads, opt for a floor jack. Meanwhile, if your primary purpose is emergency wheel changes, a scissor jack offers an affordable, portable, and user-friendly option.

You’ve grasped the definition of car jacks, so what does a muffler do?

How To Use A Car Jack

Irrespective of the type of jack you choose, ensure that your car is in first gear and that the handbrake is engaged to halt any rolling mishaps. While it may not always be essential, employing wheel chocks can also help keep the wheels from moving.

Using a Floor Jack:

1. Pinpoint the designated lift points – these are the sturdiest sections of the auto’s framework, typically located just in front or behind the wheel arches. Checking the owner’s manual can help. 
2. Maneuver the jack beneath these lift points, ensuring that its base plate is placed directly below the frame sill. 
3. Gradually elevate the jack by pumping and operating its height adjustment arm. As you approach closer to the car, exercise caution and take your time to align it correctly while guaranteeing an even weight distribution.
4. Continue pumping and adjusting until your auto is lifted off from ground level. Most floor jacks have a secure locking mechanism holding their arms in place, allowing for safe movement underneath with no risks.
5. When you are ready to lower your car back down, adjust and rotate the height adjustment arm into a vertical position; this action triggers air release from within the pump system, resulting in a gradual descent toward ground level.

Using a Scissor Jack:

1. Go for a scissor jack; it is crucial to familiarize yourself with its exact location. Scissor jacks typically have specific areas on the chassis that can be used, accompanied by a specially designed base plate fitting into grooves underneath the auto.
2. This item consists of the jack itself and a handle that needs attaching before usage. Once the jack is positioned correctly, slide on the handle and turn it in the direction indicated as “R” for raise. Proceed slowly as you approach the car’s undercarriage to ensure proper alignment.
3. When you have fully lifted the vehicle, remove and store away the handle both for safety reasons (to avoid tripping over it) and to impede unpleasant knocks.
4. To lower your car back down, turn the crank handle in reverse – often marked as “L” for lower – until all four wheels securely touch solid ground.

Using Jack Stands:

1. It boasts a convenient way to ensure stability and provide extra support when working under your car for an extended time. Using jack stands when storing a classic car is also beneficial, as lifting the vehicle off the ground helps prevent tire warping.
2. Start by locating the secure lift point at the front of your vehicle. Raise the front section of your car securely.
3. Once both front wheels are completely elevated, position two jack stands at secure lift points on each side of your vehicle. Carefully lower the jack so that both jack stands bear the weight of the front section.
4. Repeat these steps to raise and support the rear of your car using additional jack stands.
5. Elevate one end using a jack and take off the stands to bring the car down. Repeat this process for the opposite side, gradually lowering the vehicle until it rests on its wheels again.

Essential Jack Safety Advice

Regarding car lifting or debadging a car, caution is critical. Take time, employ the appropriate tools, and locate the safe lifting points. 

First and foremost, Ensure that the car is in first gear and engage the handbrake to minimize the risk of rolling.

If you need access to your owner’s manual, go online for guidance. Only attempt to jack up if you’re sure about where it’s safe to do so.

Always use a flat, level, and sturdy jack surface.

If you need to work underneath the vehicle, utilize jack stands. A jack should only be used for changing tires and not as support while working under the car.

Holts offers a range of car repair products for situations like flat tires or non-starting engines. Their products are formulated with reliability in mind – providing solutions that will get you back on track when faced with unexpected challenges on the road.

Take-home Messages!

Are you bewildered by struggling with changing a flat tire or performing routine car maintenance? Look no further than this comprehensive guide on how to use a car jack. 

Say goodbye to pricey mechanic bills and take control of the automotive upkeep with this easy-to-follow guide with this fun-driving article.