How to Jack Up a Car
Whether you need to repair some parts of your vehicle or replace a flat tire, a car jack can help lift your car for easier access. The only way that you can conveniently access and replace these parts is to use a car jack. To avoid dangers and injuries associated with car jacks, here are the steps you need to use it.
Types of Car Jacks
Car jacks use some principles of physics (like hydraulics and mechanical advantage) to lift heavy items like vehicles from the ground. Once a part of your car has been lifted from the ground, you have enough clearance to replace or repair parts. Many different types, styles, and brands of car jacks are available from auto supply stores, although they can be classified into two broad categories:
Mechanical jacks, or jackscrews, use the principle of mechanical advantage to lift vehicles from the ground. A series of screws and levers are activated to lift the car clean off the ground. Mechanical jacks are relatively inexpensive, although the structure and design of the jack can leave it prone to damage and mechanical stress.
Hydraulic jacks are often used for heavy equipment and for racing teams. In a hydraulic jack, fluid pressure is used to lift the car from the ground. Hydraulic jacks are a bit on the expensive side and are quite tricky to use.
Steps
To use a jack, follow these steps:
Park your car on a level surface. Turn the car engine off, and make sure that the gear is set to first gear (for cars with manual transmission) or park (for cars with automatic transmission).
Refer to your owner’s manual to check where the manufacturer recommends to place the jack during repair.
Place the jack at the recommended location, and operate the lever. Most jacks come with switches labeled “R/L.” Move the switch to “R” to raise the vehicle.
Operate the lever until you reach the proper height and clearance. Make sure that the jack is secure before making any repairs or replacements.
Once you’re finished with the repair job, move the switch to the “L” position to lower the jack.
Operate the lever slowly to gradually set the vehicle on the ground.
Jacks are very useful for many auto repair, maintenance, and customization tasks. With these steps, you can elevate your car safely and conveniently.