A floor jack is probably one of the handiest tools to have in your garage for any number of repairs to vehicles. In addition to being able to raise a vehicle to change the tires on it, it’s also good for checking the brakes and other routine repair work.
When choosing a floor jack for lifts, safety is a major factor to consider. But ensuring that you safely use the chosen floor jack is just as important and can be done by following a few simple safety tips to create a safe working area.
These tips for safe use of a floor jack are also good to keep in mind for repairs in your garage as well as for roadside service.
Use the Right Floor Jack for Your Vehicle
Not every floor jack is designed to lift every type of vehicle.
Before you can actually lift your car, first check the specifications of your floor jack in order to find out how much it can lift up to in terms of height and weight for your car, SUV or truck.
Choose a truck jack that has the proper lifting capacity and lift height for your car, SUV or truck.
Park on a Flat, Solid Surface
Always lift your vehicle on level ground.
Soft surfaces such as gravel or sand are not suitable for using a floor jack as the jack will become unstable. There is also a chance that the jack could shift suddenly whilst the vehicle is raised. The best surface to raise your vehicle on is a solid concrete surface.
A solid concrete surface is best to lift your vehicle on.
Read the Owner’s Manual
Each vehicle has specific jacking points. These are described in the owner’s manual and are the points where the vehicle is to be lifted by a jack.
Placing the floor jack on the wrong part of the vehicle can cause problems. Even damage to the vehicle. Always follow the guidelines of the owner’s manual.
If you’re unsure where those points are, take a moment to check the owner’s manual before you begin.
Inspect the Jack Before Every Use
A quick inspection only takes a minute.
Look for:
- Hydraulic leaks
- Loose bolts
- Damaged wheels
- Bent parts
- Anything that seems unusual
If the truck jack isn’t in good condition, don’t use it until the problem has been fixed.
Never Work Under a Vehicle Supported Only by a Floor Jack
This is one of the most important safety rules.
A floor jack is designed to lift the vehicle, not to hold it in place while you work underneath.
Always support the vehicle with properly rated jack stands before starting any repair.
Chock the Wheels
Chock the Wheels Before Jacking Up a Vehicle.
By chocking the wheels of the tires that are not to be lifted off the ground you can assure that the vehicle will not roll off while it is being lifted with the floor jack for repairs.
It’s a simple step that many people overlook.
Lift the Vehicle Slowly
There’s no need to rush.
Slowly lift the vehicle and keep a close eye on the jack as well as the vehicle as it is being lifted. If the vehicle begins to shift or the jack starts to loose its position on the vehicle then lower the vehicle slowly and safely and then re-jack the vehicle.
If the vehicle starts to shift or the jack moves while lifting the vehicle, Lower the vehicle to the ground and start over from the beginning.
Stay Within the Weight Limit
Every floor jack has a maximum lifting capacity.
You will still be overloading the jack even if the jack appears to be able to lift the vehicle. This will place additional strain on the jack and the risk of damage or unsafe behavior will increase.
Use the correct floor jack for the job and only lift as much weight as the floor jack is rated for.
Lower the Vehicle Carefully
Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground after completing work on it.
Making slow controlled lowering of the vehicle back down to the ground. Avoid a rapid release of the hydraulic valve on lowering of the vehicle as this can cause damage to the vehicle or cause an accident.
Go slow and the vehicle will come down smoothly and you will be safe.
Keep Your Floor Jack Well Maintained
Like any other tool a floor jack will function better if it is maintained. Make sure it is clean, check for wear regularly and follow the recommendations for maintenance of your floor jack in.
Take good care of your floor jack, clean it from time to time and service it as required by the manufacturer.
By servicing your equipment regularly it will be ready to use when required.
Final Thoughts
Floor jacks are commonly used for raising and lowering vehicles for repairs and maintenance, but can be hazardous if not used correctly. However, safe use of a floor jack can be learned without formal training, provided a few simple guidelines are followed.
Whether you’re lifting a car in your home garage or workshop, by following these simple tips for safe use of your floor jack you can work safely and confidently. At Stan Design we design and supply a wide range of lifting equipment that is reliable for daily use by vehicle owners and professional workshops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack?
No. A floor jack is meant to lift the vehicle, not hold it in place. Always use properly rated jack stands before working underneath.
2. Where should I place a floor jack on my vehicle?
Use the lifting points recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. You can usually find them in the owner’s manual.
3. Can I use a floor jack on uneven ground?
It’s not recommended. A flat, solid surface gives the jack better stability and helps reduce the risk of the vehicle shifting while it’s being lifted.
4. How often should I inspect my floor jack?
It’s a good idea to give it a quick inspection before every use. Check for leaks, loose parts, or any visible damage.
5. Why is it important to use wheel chocks?
Wheel chocks help keep the vehicle from rolling while it’s being lifted, adding an extra layer of safety during maintenance.
6. Can I use any floor jack for my vehicle?
Not always. The jack should have the right lifting capacity and lift height for your vehicle’s size and weight.
7. How should I store a floor jack when I’m not using it?
Store it in a clean, dry place to help protect it from dirt, moisture, and unnecessary wear.
8. What’s the most common mistake people make when using a floor jack?
One of the biggest mistakes is relying on the floor jack alone to support the vehicle. Using jack stands is essential for working safely.