Automotive Jacks and Stands Key Terms

Give your knowledge of automotive jacks and stands a lift

For those working in the car repair business, knowing automotive jacks and stands key terms is a must. Whether you're lifting cars, large trucks or engine parts, you should have a working knowledge of the many types of automotive jacks and stands. From hydraulic floor jacks to low and tall jack stands, you'll find that once you familiarize yourself with key terms, you'll never be at a loss as to what type of automotive jacks and stands you need for the job at hand.

 

Scissor jacks

Scissor jacks are typically what you might find in the trunk of your car for changing a flat tire. Scissor jacks are portable and come in many types for lifting smaller cars up to campers. These jacks usually fit under the vehicle's panel rails and work by turning a handle, which extends the scissor arms.
Try: CN Jacks Machinery defines scissor jacks, describes uses and features, and displays photos.

Floor jacks

Floor jacks are commonly hydraulic and on wheels so they can be moved around easily. Floor jacks are able to lift vehicles from the frame, rather than panel rails, for better support. The vehicle is lifted when the handle is pumped, causing the hydraulic cylinder to extend the arm.
Try: Automotive Service Equipment shows a variety of hydraulic floor jacks along with specifications, descriptions of features and instructions for how to operate them.

Bottle jacks

Automotive bottle jacks allow for one-handed operation and work more quickly than hydraulic floor jacks. Bottle jacks can be used horizontally, upright or at an angle, and utilize a longer handle, resulting in more lift with each stroke.
Try: MyToolStore.com gives details about manual bottle jacks used in the automotive, construction and industrial industries.

Exhaust air jacks

An innovative way to jack up a car is by using an exhaust air jack. This jack comes equipped with a hose that attaches to the exhaust pipe, inflating a bag placed under one side of the vehicle. Gas fumes expand the bag, which jacks up the vehicle.
Try: Get a brief description, specifications and picture of an exhaust air jack at Northern Tool + Equipment Catalog.

Transmission jacks

Transmission jacks are specialized jacks designed to lift and move automotive transmissions. This allows for better access to transmissions during repairs. Transmission jacks also can be used to move and lift other automotive parts, such as differentials, axle assemblies and drive shafts.
Try: Meyer Hydraulics Corporation shows a transmission jack at work, lifting and transporting a transmission, and gives details about specifications, such as weight capacity and side tilt capability.

Ratcheting jack stands

Ratcheting jack stands often are recommended over automotive jacks when working under a vehicle. Ratcheting jack stands are adjustable to various heights. Ratcheting jack stands are made of steel, rest on four legs and are available in a variety of strengths, bearing weights from three tons up to 12 tons.
Try: FreePatentsOnline.com gives a detailed explanation about what ratcheting jack stands are and how they work.

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