Tips for choosing the right car jack

Types and main parameters of jacks

Types of car jacks are distinguished depending on the design and mechanism.

By design they are distinguished:

• Roll-on . The tool has a durable frame with small wheels. This device allows you to roll it under the car, which makes work easier, since the tool is quite heavy.
• Screw . The tool consists of movable power elements connected by screws. When used correctly, reliability and safety are ensured. A flat, hard surface and wheel chocks are mandatory conditions for operation.
• Inflatable . The tool consists of a cylinder and a compressor. Lifting occurs with the help of air pumped into the cylinder.
• Bottled . The type of tool received its name due to its appearance, since in most models the lifting unit is similar to the container of the same name. The rise occurs due to an increase in the pressure of the liquid that is inside the model.

By type of mechanism there are:

• Hydraulic . They contain liquid inside. The work occurs due to the plunger, which, by pumping liquid, creates pressure.
• Mechanical . The lifting occurs due to the owner’s labor power, transmitted to a simple mechanism that consists of several elements and a screw.
• Pneumatic . Quite convenient and fast operation occurs due to the increase in air pressure in the cylinder.
• Electrical . The lifting process is similar to a mechanical one, only the pushing force occurs without the participation of the owner, the push is provided by an electric motor.
• Combined.

Which jack is better: screw, bottle or rolling jack?

Which jack to choose for a passenger car? The choice in favor of any of the configurations depends on several factors that need to be taken into account.

At service stations and in special centers, rolling types of jacks are used. The tool does not require excessive effort during operation and can easily cope with heavy loads. But it has one significant drawback - it is large in size, not everyone has room in the trunk.

In turn, screw and diamond-shaped types are small in size and do not take up much space. The difficulty of working with them lies in the difficult choice of location and short handle. In addition, screw jacks have a low lifting capacity; many people complain about the lifting height. An alternative is bottle jacks, which are easier to use.

In any case, the choice depends on the size and height of the car, reliability and safety of the model.

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

• Screw.

Pros:

1. Weight.
2. Price.
3. Frame rigidity.
4. Picking up cars with low clearance.

Minuses:

1. Sustainability.
2. Low load capacity.
3. Possibility of screw failure.
4. Uneven distribution of forces on the handle.

• Bottle.

Pros:

1. Handles loads well.
2. Easy to use.
3. Sustainability.
4. Average price.

Minuses:

1. Requires constant maintenance.
2. Inability to pick up cars with low clearance.
3. Over time, the seal breaks down.

• Roll-up.

Pros:

1. Large selection of drive mechanisms.
2. Sustainability.
3. Rigid construction.
4. There is a uniform transfer of force.

Minuses:

1. Price.
2. Tool dimensions.
3. Requires a flat surface.

Types of jacks and their prices

Based on the principle of operation, the following main types of jacks are distinguished:

Mechanical

A technically simple lifting device, which in most cases is equipped with passenger cars. The work is based on the application of mechanical force to move a working mechanism, for example, a screw stud.

Hydraulic

It works by pumping a liquid, such as hydraulic oil or brake fluid, into the working cavity. Single-valve models are equipped exclusively with a valve that prevents the reverse outflow of liquid, and two-valve versions are additionally equipped with a bypass safety valve, which prevents damage to the jack itself if the permissible load is exceeded.

Pneumatic

The lifting mechanism is activated by pumping air into its cavity.

Some models are capable of operating from vehicle exhaust gases (connected to the exhaust pipe), while the industrial air version requires high-performance compressor equipment.

Electric

This is no longer a type of jack, but a way of operating a working mechanism. In other words, even mechanical models, where the mechanical force is applied by the electric motor shaft, can be considered electric. Some models can be powered by a car cigarette lighter.

Electrohydraulic

The hydraulics are driven by an electric drive. A striking example of the previous point. Some models are additionally equipped with a manual drive.

Pneumohydraulic

The hydraulics are driven by an air compressor.

The following types of jacks are distinguished by design:

Rhombic

A pantograph type tool is pure mechanics.

The lifting part resembles a diamond shape, where each side is movably connected to the adjacent one.

The lateral opposite corners are closed by rotating the pin, causing the upper and lower corners to diverge.

Other names: trapezoidal jack, trapezoid.

Price – from 600 rub.

Tablet

The hydraulic part is in the form of a low-profile cylinder, connected to a separate hydraulic drive.

The cost starts at 3.5 thousand rubles, and depends on the carrying capacity.

Rack and pinion

It is based on a gear rack along which the lifting mechanism moves. Another representative of mechanics. Price – from 3 thousand rubles.

Klinova

The drive can be mechanical or hydraulic.

Another name is an expanding wedge.

The cost is around 10 thousand rubles and more.

Bottle

It got its name because of its design with a sharply prominent main working cylinder. The operation is based primarily on the hydraulic principle.

Such a jack is often called telescopic, since the rod in the initial position is hidden in a cylinder, literally, like the knees of a telescopic fishing rod.

There are single-rod and double-rod.

The last option has another name - double-plunger, and it is notable for the fact that the stroke of its rod is twice that of a similar single-rod model.

Sometimes there are three-rod versions.

Price – from 500 rubles.

Lever

The design is based on a rack, which is extended by means of a swinging drive lever.

Cost – 3 thousand rubles and more.

Screw

The rotation of the screw is converted into forward motion of the lifting platform.

An example is a diamond-shaped jack.

Pulling

They use pulling force in their work. To lift loads, they are suspended from a strong support.

They are also used for tightening metal structures and parts of ship hulls. Some models have a hook or other mechanism to secure the load mounted directly on the rod. The chain version involves attaching the hook(s) to the rod by the eye using strong chains. The cost often reaches 100 thousand rubles or more.

Rolling

The classic design is a lifting lever mounted on a frame with wheels, equipped with a thrust heel. Driven by a horizontal hydraulic cylinder.

This design is called “frog”.

Another option is a scissor mechanism, where the mechanism folds into a body - a frame, like scissors.

There are models on sale with a switch for lifting and lowering modes.

A similar mobile jack is used for working with cars; it can be short-, medium- and long-wheelbase, and is selected depending on the depth of the location of the vehicle’s nickels, into which the lift rests when lifting.

Cost – from 1 thousand rubles.

Selson jack

Representative of pneumatics.

This is a kind of pillow with a rubber-cord shell, which increases in height when air is supplied.

Such an inflatable jack is quite expensive - around 30 - 35 thousand rubles.

By purpose , the most popular jacks are:

Automotive . It is used in car repairs and tire fitting.

Cable . A specially designed lifting mechanism designed for lifting cable drums.

Diesel locomotive . For lifting freight and passenger cars, as well as locomotives.

Traveler. For lifting individual elements, as well as the assembled structure of the rail-sleeper grid.

Shrinkage compensator. A screw version used in the construction of wooden houses and log buildings.

For furniture. A technically simple product in the form of a lever, with the help of which the furniture elements are slightly lifted off the floor, and the so-called transport platforms included in the kit are inserted into the formed gap.

Such sets are designed for independent transportation of furniture.

How to choose a car jack

Type of jack

As mentioned above, there are several types of jacks:

• Roll-on.
• Screw.
• Inflatable.
• Bottled.

Each type has its own characteristics and criteria that you should pay attention to when choosing.

Load capacity

An important factor is load capacity. It is very simple to calculate the indicator you need: you need to add the weight of the luggage to the weight of the vehicle (it is indicated in the vehicle’s technical passport) and add about 30% of the total amount. If you choose a jack with a low load capacity for your car, it simply will not increase the lifting force and will not be able to keep it suspended.

Taking into account the load capacity, car owners should choose screw or diamond-shaped models. For large vehicles (SUVs and crossovers), a rolling jack or certain types of bottle jacks are suitable.

Pickup height

This criterion determines the possibility of using the device and the degree of comfort at the time of its installation. If the ground clearance is, for example, 12 centimeters, then a jack with a lifting height of 15 centimeters will be impossible to use. For vehicles with low-profile wheels, a rolling or bottle lift is suitable.

Lifting height

This criterion determines the ability to lift the vehicle so that the wheel can be removed and installed without effort. Owners of cars with large wheels should pay close attention to this characteristic. A diamond or screw model may not be suitable here, and using foreign objects (for lifting) may be unsafe.

Important! When choosing, you also need to take into account that sometimes you will have to work on a non-flat surface.

Jack: what is it, how it works

To lift a small load in a small space, you should use special equipment. The optimal solution is a low tablet, that is, a jack. Particularly popular are hydraulic tools, which are distinguished not only by reliability, but also by performance characteristics.

Jack

The operating principle of this device is extremely simple. The main ones are the vessels that power the structure. The equipment contains a pressure pump. Thanks to this element, the working fluid can be pumped from the reserve tank. Due to this, the pressure increases, which helps to raise the piston.

To understand what a good hydraulic jack is, you should familiarize yourself with the following components:

• Reserve capacity. It contains a lever system designed to pump the working fluid. This mass enters the main cylinder.
• Working cylinder. This element is equipped with a piston.
• Supports with a large surface. Due to this, the mechanical pressure that occurs when lifting a load in a small space is compensated. Therefore, before starting action, it is necessary to study the size of the support.

Note!
A jack is a device whose main parameter is lifting capacity. When choosing equipment, you need to pay attention to the permissible pick-up height. The operating principle of this design completely depends on this parameter.

Rating of the best rolling car jacks

Owners who have decided on the type are faced with the question of which rolling jack is best to take. We have selected the best options for reliable tools.

Kraft KT 820005

Kraft KT 820005

The tool is designed for smooth lifting and installation of loads up to 390 mm. A special long removable handle ensures operation with minimal participation of the owner; all work can be done while standing. The device is easy to carry using the built-in handle, and the wheels make work more convenient, and also facilitate easy movement of the jack weighing 13.5 kg. A case is included for compact storage and transportation. The model is perfect for tire fitting.

Pros:

• Rod for securing the load.
• Sustainability.
• Comfortable handle.
• There is a safety valve.
• The kit includes a case.
• High quality build.

Minuses:

• Requires constant maintenance.
• Strong smell of paint.

Consumers were divided into 2 groups. There are those who claim that the jack “fully copes with its purpose”, and those who are completely dissatisfied with the performance of the Kraft KT 820005.

Stels 51131

Stels 51131

The jack has a low lift (100 mm), which makes it convenient to work with light machines with low ground clearance. The design includes a tray where you can place the nuts. Easy movement is guaranteed due to the wheels and handle. The rubber pad on the support platform ensures that the load is secured.

Pros:

• Corrosion protection.
• Reinforced design.
• High quality build.
• Low pick-up height.
• Rotary handle.
• Long service life.

Minuses:

• Small platform for lifting.
• The paint is crumbling.

Users are satisfied with the jack and emphasize its reliability.

BISON T30 43053-2 (2 t)

BISON T30 43053-2 (2 t)

A model with good lifting capacity, the jack ensures efficient operation. The model is suitable for auto repair shops when inspecting the suspension and chassis of a car. The set includes a case that allows you to easily carry the device and conveniently store it, and it also includes a removable handle that simplifies operation and transportation. The weight of the jack is 7.3 kg.

Pros:

• Long service life.
• Quality.
• Price.
• Productive.
• Weight.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the model and emphasize the consistency between price and quality.

Matrix 51018 (2 t)

Matrix 51018 (2 t)

Matrix 51018 (2 t) is suitable for car models with low ground clearance. Popular with specialists. The design includes a safety valve that prevents work with a load whose weight exceeds 2 tons.

The lifting height is quite enough for repair work and installation of a rigid support.

Pros:

• It has a durable body made of steel.
• Reliably secures the load.
• Stable.
• Easy transportation.
• Good build quality.

Minuses:

• Inconvenient shut-off valve.

Consumers are satisfied with the Matrix 51018; they highlight the ability to lift almost all car models.

Nordberg N32032 (3 t)

Nordberg N32032 (3 t)

The model is used in car services during car repairs. The wheels of the jack provide quick and easy movement; their diameter is 58 millimeters and they are made of steel. The durable housing is wear-resistant, and the double-rod mechanism ensures quick lifting of the load. The tool has a safety valve that protects against overload. It is easy to use and makes working with the vehicle easier.

Pros:

• There is a safety valve.
• Double rod quick lift mechanism.
• Excellent quality.
• Stable.
• Convenient to use.

Minuses:

• Weight.

Users are satisfied with the model, emphasizing convenience, reliability and excellent quality.

Ombra OHT225C (2.5 t)

Ombra OHT225C (2.5 t)

The model is suitable for servicing off-road vehicles and light trucks. Has a clip and a case. Safety is ensured by a safety mechanism. It is suitable for both private use and will be an excellent option for working in a tire shop. The small size allows you to store the jack in the garage, house or trunk. The weight of the device is 15.2 kg.

Pros:

• Availability of a mechanical stopper.
• Comfortable.
• Durable design.
• Compact.
• Reliable.

Minuses:

• Fragile case.
• Thin rubber pad.
• A small amount of factory lubricant.

Consumers are satisfied with the Ombra OHT225C (2.5 t), highlighting its strength, reliability and compactness.

Criterias of choice

Previously, drivers did not have much choice, since literally several domestically produced models were offered on the market. Therefore, people did not have any questions regarding which jacks are best for passenger cars. Now the situation has changed dramatically. A huge number of different devices have appeared that differ in design, drive type, load capacity and other characteristics. The number of domestic developments has increased noticeably. But along with them, the market was filled with imported models, and not always of high quality. Due to the wide variety, you have to approach the issue of choosing a car jack more carefully. Experienced drivers and specialists recommend focusing on the following parameters:

• type of drive;
• lifting height;
• pickup height;
• load capacity.

Based on these criteria, you will be able to purchase the best jack option for your specific car.

Having made the right choice of jack, he will definitely be able to help out in a difficult situation and pull out your car, or the car of another road user whom you decide to help on the road.

A lot depends on the quality, reliability and efficiency of the lifting device. Especially among those motorists who like to go off-road, or are forced to drive on roads of extremely dubious and very low quality. At present, such roads cannot be called rare.

Load capacity parameters

The question of which jack is best to choose should be approached individually. That is, it is important to consider your own needs and characteristics of the vehicle. This will allow you to choose the most suitable device.

And they usually start with the question of carrying capacity. Each lifting mechanism, represented by a jack, is designed to lift a specific load. Moreover, all such devices have a load capacity limit, above which the device simply will not operate. This value must absolutely not be exceeded. Even if the lift starts to work and lifts the car off the ground, not being designed for this weight, the car can be torn off at any moment. With all that it implies.

Exceeding the maximum load capacity results in breakdown of the mechanism and damage to the vehicle itself.

Hydraulic trolley jack with lifting capacity 2 tons

When you're shopping for a new car jack, start by considering the weight characteristics of your vehicle. The mistake of many is that the curb weight is usually taken into account. This is not critical, but it will be more correct if you take the actual weight of the car into account. It provides for a maximum weight taking into account the passenger load in the cabin and the filling of the luggage compartment. In addition to the standard set in the form of a spare wheel, a fire extinguisher, and the jack itself, the total weight of passengers and things transported in the trunk is taken into account.

For ordinary car enthusiasts who mainly drive a car alone or with one passenger, and who prefer to entrust repair and restoration work to car services, they can safely take standard rhombic devices with a small reserve of carrying capacity. If your car weighs about 1.2 tons, then a jack with a lifting capacity of 1.5-2 tons will definitely cope with the tasks assigned to it. It is not necessary to take more powerful devices, since it will not have to lift increased weight, and for devices with increased load capacity you will need to significantly overpay.

If you service and repair the car yourself, or even provide car repair services, then it is better to give preference to jacks with increased load capacity. Their advantage is that such devices are able to work with different masses. Therefore, one jack will help you cope with both a compact subcompact car and a large SUV, minibus or truck. In the professional field, jacks with a load capacity of 3-8 tons are usually used.

A completely different category includes owners of trucks, vans and tractors and those who provide professional service for them. This requires a vehicle jack with a lifting capacity of at least 15 tons. In certain cases, this characteristic reaches 30 tons.

When choosing a lifting device for large trucks, be sure to take into account the dead weight of the vehicle and the weight of the loaded train. After all, situations cannot be ruled out when the truck will have to be lifted while fully loaded.

If we take the same KAMAZ as an example, then to service it you need a lifting mechanism with a minimum lifting capacity of 24 tons. This is due to the fact that the weight of the machine itself is about 10 tons, and its body can carry cargo weighing up to 14 tons.

Load capacity is rightly considered a fundamental characteristic when choosing a car jack. It is with this criterion that you need to start, without forgetting about other characteristics that are also of great importance.

Device lifting height

Recently, the demand for hydraulic bottle car jack has increased dramatically. Increasingly, car owners are abandoning standard screw models, preferring more convenient and functional devices. But before choosing such a device or its analogues, you should pay attention to the lifting height.

Lift height refers to how high the device can lift a load. In our case, this is a car, although sometimes jacks are used for completely different purposes. The height is calculated from the support point to the maximum lift value.

If you study the characteristics of auto jacks, then in most cases the data sheet will indicate a value from 300 to 500 millimeters. This lifting height is sufficient for self-service of the machine, removal of wheels, repair of the brake system, etc.

Rack and pinion jacks are a separate category. Their key feature is the lifting of loads to a height of over 1 meter from the fulcrum. But how expedient and necessary such a lift is in the normal everyday life of a motorist is an extremely controversial issue. Such devices are purchased by those who go off-road, like fishing and hunting, access to which is problematic due to the lack of good roads. It is in situations like this, where the SUV is stuck in the mud, that the capabilities of rack and pinion lifting devices can come in handy. But they can also be useful in everyday life when repair or construction work is carried out.

There is no need to chase a huge lift height if you just need to remove and change a wheel, or carry out some minor repair work under the car. For such purposes, it is preferable to use a pit, overpass or lifts. The lifting height must simultaneously provide good stability to the vehicle being lifted.

Pickup height

Before choosing a new jack for your car, having decided on the lifting height and load capacity, it would definitely be a good idea to look at the passport data and read the information about ground clearance. All automobile lifting devices have their own parameters, which sometimes differ significantly from their competitors.

It is the vehicle's ground clearance that determines what pick-up height is needed in a given situation. This is a characteristic indicating the minimum height from which the process of lifting the load begins. Depending on the model and type of device, the pickup usually varies between 60-250 millimeters.

In the case of standard cars and SUVs, there are usually no problems. Owners of such vehicles usually prefer bottle, diamond-shaped, rack and pinion and other types of mechanisms. All lifts are often suitable for these cars.

Bottle double rod jack

Roll-on and screw models are suitable for those whose car clearance is no more than 150 millimeters. These jacks can start working from 60-90 millimeters. And the hooking devices have the lowest pickup, and in some cases it can be 20-30 millimeters.

It’s also not worth chasing too small a pick-up. If you have a fairly high car with a ground clearance of about 250 mm, and the lift is minimal with a maximum lift height of about 300 mm, you have an extremely ineffective jack at your disposal.

When studying the passport data of the jack you are purchasing, do not forget to look at the stroke parameter. It means the distance between the pick-up and the maximum lifting height. The higher this range is, the more versatile the device will be. Therefore, it can satisfy the needs of most vehicles.

Drive unit

Even with impressive lift and pickup height parameters, it is important to be sure that the motorist will be able to take full advantage of the offered characteristics. After all, when you have to lift the jack along with the load almost manually, relying on your own physical strength, each next centimeter of lifting will be harder and harder.

Taking into account the fact that cars can be quite heavy, and not all drivers engage in weightlifting, lifting hundreds of kilograms with their hands, engineers have developed various types of drives for car jacks.

Before choosing a rolling jack or one of its competitors for your car, you need to take into account the characteristic features of each of the proposed drive options.

When choosing rolling jacks, disputes often arise regarding their appropriateness of use. Such devices cannot be taken with you on the road, and therefore they are purely garage-type lifting devices. But having a jack in the garage is good, but a device with similar functions must be present in the car during trips.

And it is the type of drive that largely influences whether the lift is intended for garage use, or whether it can be taken with you in the car, always counting on help.

In total, there are 3 categories of auto jacks based on the type of drive used.

1. Mechanical. This drive ensures lifting of the load due to the user’s physical effort on the corresponding mechanism. Usually this is a handle that is rotated or pressed. Such jacks are universal, lightweight and can be transported in a car. But they are not suitable for frequent use. A good option for those who have a flat tire on the road and need to remove and replace it themselves, stopping somewhere near the road. Mechanical devices are the most budget-friendly, intended for owners of passenger vehicles. Such jacks are not purchased for daily use. They definitely should not be used as a garage lift or a tool in a car repair shop.
2. Hydraulic. When choosing hydraulic jacks, you should consider their strengths and weaknesses. As in the case of a mechanical drive, here the device is driven by the applied force to the handle. But a distinctive feature is the fact that great physical effort is not needed here. The lifting process is greatly facilitated due to the pressure created by the working fluid. As a result, it pushes the plunger out, lifting an impressive load. Most often, motorists purchase bottle devices. Their problem is that such devices cannot be transported horizontally. It is recommended to maintain an exclusively vertical position, excluding bending. But many people still carry such devices in the car. The price is higher than mechanical ones, but in terms of efficiency and ease of use they are noticeably superior to their competitors.
3. Pneumatic. The source of energy for lifting loads in pneumatic devices is compressed air. Professional auto repair shops have a pneumatic network, and if the driver finds himself in extreme field conditions, you can use a special gas cylinder or even connect to the exhaust pipe of your own vehicle. When the jack chamber is filled with air, its volume increases and the lifting process occurs. The driver does not need to make any effort at all. In terms of labor costs, these are the easiest jacks to use, additionally capable of lifting a load in a minimum amount of time.

Don’t rush into choosing a rack jack or an expensive pneumatic device if you are buying a device purely for safety reasons and periodic use. For such purposes, an inexpensive mechanical jack that meets all the criteria is considered the optimal choice.

But for garage and auto repair shop use, where the device is used on a regular basis, it makes sense to spend more money by purchasing a highly efficient pneumatic or hydraulic lifting mechanism.

Each presented category of drives for jacks has its own subcategories. Once you get acquainted with them, it will be much easier for you to make your choice.

Mechanical

Such devices are based on a mechanical drive. A fairly wide range of different designs are produced. Mechanical jacks are divided into several subtypes. Each of them has its own objective advantages and some disadvantages.

1. Vertical screw. This is a pick-up arm that is fixed to a screw. Depending on the direction in which the screw rotates, the pick-up moves down and up. But they are limited in their functionality, since the pickup is inserted only into special grooves on the bottom of cars. They must be present on the car and located near the wheel arches.
2. Diamond or rhombic jack. If we talk about which jack to choose for a car in order to be able to use it on the road, many people choose this model. These are also screw devices located horizontally. As the handle rotates, the two arms, held by hinges, compress and unclench. On top of the hinges there is a grab, the height of which depends on the bend of the working arms. Most modern cars are equipped with such devices. They are reliable, easy to use, light in weight and cost reasonable money. But the efficiency is about 40%, and the load capacity is usually limited to 1500 kilograms.
3. Rack jack. If the diamond-shaped one does not suit you, but the choice fell on a mechanical drive, the question arises, which tool to choose. It is worth taking a closer look at the rack ones, which consist of a vertical rail, teeth or holes, as well as a catch. By rotating the gear or lever, the pick-up moves in a vertical plane. Their efficiency reaches 80%. These devices have the highest lifting capacity of all mechanical car jacks.

Each of the proposed options is potentially suitable for your car. But you need to understand that a mechanical drive implies the need to apply certain physical efforts. In some situations it will be impossible to lift the car yourself. That’s why car owners are increasingly looking towards more modern and efficient hydraulic mechanisms.

Mechanical diamond jack Forsage ST-113 Black

Hydraulic

The operation of such devices is based on hydraulics, that is, the properties of an incompressible fluid together with the principle of communicating vessels. Hydraulic tools come in different varieties. Therefore, you need to determine which one is better to choose and how they differ from each other.

1. Vertical. He's a bottle jack. It is called so because it looks like a bottle. The cylinder axis here is located vertically, and the piston is connected to the pickup. The efficiency is about 80%, which is why little physical effort has to be applied to lift the machine. When determining which jack to choose for a car, many car owners lean towards bottle ones. They are easy to use, smoothly raise and lower the machine, and are accurately fixed at the required height. It is important that when transporting the device it is always in an upright position. Otherwise, the working fluid may leak out of the structure. Some note the slow operation of the bottle, but this is the only and very subjective drawback.
2. Rolling. It is worth thinking about which rolling jack to choose if you plan to use the device in a garage environment. A hydraulic jack with a rolling jack has a horizontal cylinder axis. Roughly speaking, this is a cart with wheels and a special lever for lifting a car. The convenience is that the tool is rolled under the car. But here there is an important drawback, which requires a dense and even surface. Roll-away models are suitable for service stations and garages, but there are obvious problems with mobility. It is impossible to take such a jack with you on the road, since it is bulky and requires a lot of space.

Which jack to choose is up to you. The first type is ideal for travel. But rolling devices are only relevant in garage conditions. Plus, they have a minimum pick-up height, which makes them convenient to use when servicing vehicles with low ground clearance.

Pneumatic

If in previous devices the working fluid was liquid (hydraulic oil), here air is used. The entire volume of the working cylinders is filled with air, which allows you to move the piston with pickup, or fill the air spring, gradually increasing it in size. This is a stationary type of car jack as it requires a compressor to be used. It will pump air and thereby ensure the operation of the device.

There are also portable versions that can use portable compressors and car exhaust. The undeniable advantages include high lifting speed, increased stability and the ability to work with machines at a minimum height relative to the surface. But objective disadvantages do not allow them to be considered as a convenient option for a mobile jack that you can always take with you in the car.

The best screw car jacks

We have compiled a rating of screw jacks for passenger cars.

AUTOPROFI DVB-20 Lo (2 t)

AUTOPROFI DVB-20 Lo (2 t)

The screw tool is equipped with a telescopic support. The steel body has an anti-corrosion coating. The support of the device is telescopic and can lift the load to a height of up to 308 millimeters. The long knob gives a lever length of 85 centimeters. The bright red color makes the instrument stand out so that it is clearly visible even at night.

Pros:

• Steel body.
• Telescopic support.
• Weight and size.
• Price.
• You can work without bending.

Minuses:

• Rough gear and thread.
• The paint is peeling off in places.

Users are satisfied with the AUTOPROFI DVB-20 Lo (2 t) jack and emphasize its affordability.

AVS JA-2000R (2 t)

AVS JA-2000R (2 t)

The type of jack is rhombic. The work occurs due to the movement of levers, hingedly connected to each other in the shape of a diamond. The maximum lifting height is adjusted using a special removable handle. The jack is made of high-strength material. Suitable for all types of cars and will not let you down on the road.

Pros:

• Lifting height.
• Case.

Minuses:

• Thin metal.

There are users who are not particularly happy with the product and complain about the quality of the jack. Others are generally satisfied with his work.

AvtoDelo 43115 (1.5 t)

AvtoDelo 43115 (1.5 t)

The jack is suitable for vehicles whose weight does not exceed 1500 kg. The work occurs due to the transmitted forces to the handle. Equipped with a ratchet wrench for ease of use. The tool is intended for rare use and is not suitable for work in car repair shops. This is a fairly inexpensive option, suitable for passenger cars.

Pros:

• Small dimensions.
• High quality build.
• Stable.
• The kit includes a ratchet wrench.
• Convenient to use.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the AvtoDelo 43115 model; they emphasize its convenience in a garage, ease of use, functionality and build quality.

Airline AJ-R-02 (2 t)

Airline AJ-R-02 (2 t)

The tool is made of high quality steel. The rubberized support pad performs the function of protection. Using the device is simple and safe thanks to its design and reliable platform. The kit includes a case for easy storage and transportation. The lifting height is sufficient to change a wheel and check the condition of the car. The small size and weight of 3.1 kg ensure easy transportation of the instrument.

Pros:

• Price.
• Convenient to use.
• Availability of a cover.
• Comfortable handle.

Minuses:

• Soft metal.

Users are satisfied with the functionality, but they do not like the build quality.

AUTOPROFI DV-15R (1.5 t)

AUTOPROFI DV-15R (1.5 t)

The model does its job well on a flat surface. The tool is quite compact and easy to use. The lever-collar ensures lifting with minimal physical effort. The diamond design ensures rapid lifting of the vehicle to a height of up to 390 millimeters. For safety, the jack is equipped with a rubber pad. A durable frame made of metal allows you to maximize the life of the jack.

Pros:

• Price.
• Size.
• Strength.
• Life time.

No deficiencies found.

Users like the AUTOPROFI DV-15R (1.5t), they say that the quality of the jack matches the price and it does the job well.

BelAvtoKomplekt BAK.00059 (2 t)

BelAvtoKomplekt BAK.00059 (2 t)

Jack with a reliable design. The screw diamond tool is easily operated using a rotary handle. Simple and convenient to use. The tool is universal; you can perform actions with any brand of car and with any installation method. For safe, high-quality, long-term use, you need to keep the jack clean, constantly inspect it, and carry out minimal maintenance in a timely manner.

Pros:

• Long service life.
• Build quality.
• Easy to use.

Minuses:

• It takes effort.

Users are satisfied with the jack and emphasize its long service life.

Types, properties and characteristics of hydraulic bottle jack

Jacks are divided into several types, the first division is based on the number of rods (half-rams):

• Single-stem bottle, the most common type Fig. 2.
• Double stem bottle Fig 3.

There is also a division based on the operating principle of the pump pumping liquid:

• Manual, activated by user pressure on the lever
• Large pumps designed to lift enormous masses are driven by a separate drive, hydraulic pump or hydraulic station.

Properties:

Load capacity , an important parameter that determines the maximum lifted weight. The parameter depends on the volume of the working chamber and strength characteristics. Bottle-type devices have a load capacity from 2 to 100 tons.

Minimum lifting height , otherwise called minimum pick-up height. This is the height at which the load must already be in order to be able to place a jack under it. Please pay attention to the minimum height if you are selecting a device for a car. If you have low ground clearance, then a bottle-type device due to its high design will not suit you.

Maximum lift height. The height to which a load can be lifted. The bottle ones have a special feature: on the support platform there is a retractable screw that increases the minimum and maximum lifting height.

Best bottle car jacks

We have selected a rating of bottle jacks that will help you make your choice.

Sparta Compact 50333 (5 t)

Sparta Compact 50333 (5 t)

Durable steel construction with polished stem. Suitable for repair and maintenance of various equipment. The polished rod ensures long service life of the jack. The small size makes it easy to carry and convenient to store.

Pros:

• Stable.
• Compact.
• Suitable for lifting various loads.
• Build quality.

Minuses:

• The maximum lift height does not match the description.

Users are very satisfied with the product.

Ombra OHT108 (8 t)

Ombra OHT108 (8 t)

A model for any conditions, does not require constant maintenance. The work is carried out using a lever, which is inserted into a special eyelet. Durable metal construction ensures safety and reliability.

Pros:

• High quality build.
• Durable design.
• Smooth.
• Fixes well.
• Easy to use.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the jack, emphasizing its strength and reliability of fixation.

SOROKIN 3.560 (3 t)

SOROKIN 3.560 (3 t)

The tool combines not only a lifting mechanism, but also an integrated electric drive. The device is powered from the vehicle's on-board network. Suitable for both cars and minibuses. There is a fuse for safety. The rated current is 13 A.

Pros:

• Easy to use.
• Power supply from the machine's on-board network.
• Wide range of temperatures.
• Smooth ride.
• Silence.

Minuses:

• Inconvenient footrest.

Customers are satisfied with the product, despite its cost, and highlight the lack of noise and smoothness.

Kraftool Double Ram 43463-2

Kraftool Double Ram 43463-2

The tool copes well with tire fitting and maintenance of passenger cars whose weight does not exceed two tons. The convenient handle ensures quick lifting and lowering of the load. The compact body does not take up much space, so it can be stored in the trunk. The steel construction ensures durability and extends service life.

Pros:

• Double rod.
• Good climb.
• Compact.
• Easy.

Minuses:

• Sometimes it leaks.

Users like this model, emphasizing the dimensions and ease of use.

AIRLINE AJ-TB-04

AIRLINE AJ-TB-04

The tool allows you to lift loads to the maximum height among all bottle jacks. The jack stroke is increased by 50% thanks to the built-in telescopic rod. But at the same time the minimum pick-up height is maintained. This makes the operation convenient when using the AIRLINE AJ-TB-04 jeep jack.

Pros:

• It lifts well.
• Excellent load capacity.

Minuses:

• Sometimes it flows.

Customers are satisfied with the product, emphasizing the high lift with a low jack height.

Autoprofi DG-08

Autoprofi DG-08

Good hydraulic jack. The tool is used on a flat surface to lift a vehicle whose weight does not exceed eight tons. When the load exceeds, the bypass valve is activated. The design is made of high-quality metal, thanks to which the jack is resistant to damage.

Pros:

• Folding handle.
• Good load capacity.
• Sustainability.
• Life time.

No deficiencies found.

Customers are generally satisfied with the jack.

Design

The main structural elements are the plunger and the working cylinder. In the small piston, through the injection system, uniform pressure is formed, which is transmitted to the large one. Due to this, the total pressure on the plunger increases and its vertical movement begins. Thus, with the application of a small force, it is possible to obtain a significant lifting force over a large area of ​​the rod.

In its simplest form, a hydraulic jack consists of the following components:

• The drive is a piston with hydraulic oil and a pressure injection system of mechanical or electrical type.
• The hydraulic distribution device directs the generated force in the required direction.
• Oil filter. Cleans oil from contamination to ensure uniformity of the environment.
• Pressure regulation system. Includes a reset valve to return the plunger to its original position.
• Pump for injecting working fluid.

The lifting capacity of the jack can range from 1.5 to 1000 tons or more, which is the best indicator among this class of devices.

The best rack and pinion car jacks

Rack and pinion jacks are simple and easy to use. A standard rack and pinion jack operates by rotating movements. We have collected the TOP best jacks of this type.

BISON Hi-jack 43045-3-070 (3 t)

BISON Hi-jack 43045-3-070 (3 t)

A reliable jack, just a godsend when off-road. The tool is also used as a hand winch. It is also used when moving heavy loads. The model is very comfortable, low weight and serrated jaws contribute to this.

Pros:

• Lasting.
• Small model, does not take up much space.
• Easy to use.
• Large operating range.

No deficiencies found.

Customers are happy with the tool and like that it is easy to work with.

Kraton HJ-2.7-1200 2 30 03 002

Kraton HJ-2.7-1200 2 30 03 002

An excellent and reliable jack with which you can lift various equipment. It is very convenient to use the tool when changing wheels. The steel rack structure lifts to a height of 1016 millimeters. Thanks to the steel rack structure, the product is capable of lifting loads weighing up to 2.7 tons.

Pros:

• Reliable.
• Does not require complex care.
• Lasting.
• Comfortable extended handle.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the tool, they emphasize the consistency of price and quality.

Stels 50529 (3 t)

Stels 50529 (3 t)

A professional tool ensures quick lifting of the car to the required height. Stels 50529 is easy to use, and the presence of a perforated body reduces weight and allows the tool to operate as a winch. Suitable for use in harsh conditions.

Pros:

1. Easy to use.
2. Reliability.
3. Can be used in any conditions.
4. Powerful.

Minuses:

1. The rubber grip does not fit tightly onto the handle.

Customers are satisfied with the model and claim that the jack met all their expectations.

MATRIX 505155 (3 t)

MATRIX 505155 (3 t)

The model is designed for smooth ascent. MATRIX 505155 (3 t) is safe. Durability is ensured by a design made of high quality metal. Can be used as a hand winch.

Pros:

• Smooth ride.
• Lasting.
• Easy transportation.
• Comfortable.
• Corrosion protection.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the jack, emphasizing the simplicity of the design and ease of operation.

AvtoDelo 43330 (3 t)

AvtoDelo 43330 (3 t)

The model is used mainly for repair, installation and loading work. Also used as a traction winch. The jack is suitable for lifting a car at a service station or in a car repair shop. It is possible to pick up cargo from a low height. With its help, you can lift the vehicle without any extra effort.

Pros:

• There is a locking mechanism.
• Lasting.
• Step-by-step system for lifting and installing loads.

No deficiencies found.

Buyers are satisfied with the jack and its functionality.

Specialized jacks

The following tools are mainly used in car repairs:

Auto tipper

Designed for lifting a car from the side, with emphasis on the wheels opposite to the installation of the mechanism.

Repair stand

Also known as a car rack, it is a device that performs a safety function for additional support of a car raised by other devices. The support stand under the car prevents it from falling by firmly fixing it at a given height. Not intended for lifting loads

Transmission stand jack

Used for installing and dismantling a vehicle's gearbox.

This transmission option is specific and highly targeted equipment.

Yamny

An auxiliary mechanism for hanging car axles on a pit or scissor lift. Another name is ditch jack.

According to design features, they are distinguished:

• Two-stage with two pickups located at different heights. This two-level bottle-type mechanism combines a classic and low-lift jack, described below.

• With a low paw - has a minimum pick-up height, up to 20 millimeters or less. A characteristic feature is a pick-up arm protruding to the side, which hooks the load under its lower edge. Hence another name - toe jack.
• Low profile - for lifting a car with low ground clearance.

Purely conditionally, jacks can be divided into:

• Household - relatively cheap models designed for lifting light weight loads, in particular cars. These are so-called garage jacks - inexpensive mechanisms that allow you to independently repair vehicles at home, including replacing wheels. In general, we are talking about budget products.
• Professional – hydraulically reinforced structures designed for quick lifting of light and heavy loads. They are used in modern service centers, repair shops and even industrial enterprises. This includes highly specialized models.

Best Diamond Mechanical Jacks

We have also compiled a ranking of the best diamond jacks for 2021.

SKYWAY 1t h 90-330 mm

SKYWAY 1t h 90-330 mm

The design, made of metal, ensures high reliability and fault tolerance. Four articulated and connecting arms forming a rhombus are used as load-bearing elements. The work occurs by changing the angles between the levers, which leads to an increase or decrease in the distance between the pickup and the support platform.

Pros:

• The set includes a bag-case.
• Rubber pad.
• Reliable.
• Stable.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the model and are satisfied with its trouble-free operation.

GOOD YEAR 2 t

GOOD YEAR 2 t

The jack is used for lifting passenger cars and various loads not exceeding 2 tons. The small size allows you to store the device in the trunk, so it is great for changing wheels on the road. The rubber support will not damage the paintwork. The removable handle helps with transportation.

Pros:

• High quality build.
• Functionality.
• Strength.

No deficiencies found.

Customers are satisfied with the product and emphasize the affordable price and good quality of the tool.

KRAFT KT 800054 1.75 t

KRAFT KT 800054 1.75 t

It is actively in demand among motorist owners. Excellent for passenger cars. The lifting height provides comfortable working conditions. Compactness and weight make the device easy to carry. Reliability and ease of operation.

Important! In order for the tool to work effectively, it is recommended to periodically lubricate the threads on the screw.

Pros:

• Frost resistance.
• Sustainability.
• Compactness.
• Lifting height.
• Build quality.

Minuses:

• No case.

Customers are satisfied with the jack and highlight the reliability and quality of the design.

ELETS-VORONEZH Euro 1.8 t

ELETS-VORONEZH Euro 1.8 t

The tool platform has a recess for a stiffener, which makes the device stable and helps reduce the likelihood of falling. The jack is compact enough that you can store it in the trunk. Used to lift a car on a hard surface.

Pros:

• Reliable.
• Compact.
• Rubberized upper platform.
• Huge travel range.

Minuses:

• Inconvenient handle.
• Poor quality of painting.
• There is a possibility of scratching the car if handled carelessly.

Users are satisfied with the jack, they note the dimensions and reliability.

MASTER (100-405 mm) 1.75 t

MASTER (100-405 mm) 1.75 t

The small size makes it easy to carry and comfortable to store. The wide rubberized support platform ensures the jack's stability and safety. It is easy to maintain and reliable in use.

Pros:

• Sustainability.
• Frost resistance.
• Compactness.
• Rubberized wide platform.
• Comfortable handle.

Minuses:

• Weight.
• Weak thread.
• The stopper is very soft.

Users are happy with the MASTER (100-405mm) 1.75t model, but some claim that the metal on the tool is raw.

Hydraulic jack selection options

Rolling jack

After determining the optimal type, you need to choose the right hydraulic jack. To do this, you need to know its basic operational and technical characteristics. You can first familiarize yourself with them in the contents of the equipment passport.

The first step is to find out the maximum weight of the load that will need to be lifted. It is important to correctly distribute the load on the surface of the working piston. Therefore, in some cases more than one jack may be needed. An alternative option is to purchase a two-rod one with better stability.

Knowing the design of each model and the restrictions on use, you can decide in advance on their choice. After this, we begin to analyze the remaining parameters:

• lift height;
• minimum distance from the top surface of the working cylinder to the base when folded;
• composition of the working fluid. It is recommended to use oil with mineral additives. This expands the operating temperature range;
• drive force;
• drive type – mechanical or electric;
• dimensions

Some industrial and semi-professional jacks have the ability to install pumps to create pressure in the working piston. But bottled ones do not have this function - a lever system is used to pump oil.

The rate of pressure release is also taken into account. This is determined by the characteristics of the valve. It is recommended to purchase jacks with a two-way valve, which relatively quickly returns the plunger to its original position.

The video describes the design of various hydraulic jacks:

Best inflatable car jack

After studying the features and user reviews, we have selected two of the best inflatable car jacks for 2021.

SOROKIN 3.693 (3 t)

SOROKIN 3.693 (3 t)

A convenient jack that will save you in difficult situations on the road. An uneven surface is not a problem for this device. The entire structure of the tool is contained in a bag made of durable PVC fabric. When working with the device, it is necessary to use safety stands to securely and safely secure the vehicle. Also, when working with the SOROKIN 3.693 jack, owners use parking shoes.

Pros:

• Comfortable.
• Compact.
• Easy to use.
• Copes with work in any conditions.

Minuses:

• Poor quality connection between the valve and the cylinder.
• Inconvenient to fold.

Buyers are satisfied with the device and emphasize that it can be used on uneven surfaces.

AE&T T08105A (5 t)

AE&T T08105A (5 t)

This model is used in car services and tire shops to lift a vehicle for repair or maintenance. The small size ensures convenient movement of the jack and storage of the device. Thanks to its robust construction, the model is stable and has a long service life, and a special coating protects against corrosion.

Pros:

• Convenient to use.
• Long service life.
• High load capacity.
• Comfortable handle.
• Air pressure 8–10 atm.

No deficiencies found.

Users are satisfied with the product and emphasize its durability and service life.

Purpose and functions

The jack allows you to raise a car, minibus or light truck from one side to the required height, hold the vehicle at this height during repair work, and smoothly lower the car after the repair is completed.

• The mechanisms are used at service stations and in auto repair shops offering the following services:
• Suspension repair.
• Tire service
• Pressing out silent blocks of trucks.

How to properly jack up a car

After determining the type and component models, you need to familiarize yourself with the rules for using your jack. Need to:

1. Place the tool on a flat surface.
2. Lock the gearbox and apply the handbrake.
3. If there are safety supports, place them and secure them, raising them to the required height.
4. Lower the jack so that the vehicle is supported on jack stands.
5. Raise the device smoothly, without jerking.

By following these steps, you will be able to complete the operation with ease and without incident.

We looked at the types of jacks and elements that you should pay attention to when choosing a device. Taking into account the characteristics, you can find the device that is ideal for the vehicle. Our ratings of the best jacks will help you choose a high-quality and reliable tool.

Design and principle of operation

In the simplest case, the mechanism consists of a screw, a nut and a worm-type gearbox. The platform on which the nut is fixed rises due to the operation of the worm gearbox and the vehicle is lifted. There are models with a ball screw (ballscrew) - less effort when raising and lowering the vehicle.

Double-screw jacks provide sufficient vehicle lifting height with a load of up to 2-3 tons.

The maximum load capacity of screw lifting devices is 15 tons, but such models are quite rare and are not used in service stations.

Traditionally, jacks of this type are manually driven, although there are models with an electric drive that facilitate lifting operations. Models with electric drive have a control panel for adjusting height and lifting speed.

The electric drive is powered from a 220 V network. The only thing that needs to be taken into account when choosing such models, in addition to power, is the length of the electrical wire.