How to Jack Up a Car

A car jack will allow you to lift the car for repairing some parts or changing the tires and that too conveniently. To avoid dangers and injuries you must follow these steps:

Types of Car Jacks

Car jacks use hydraulics and machines to lift heavy items like vehicles from the ground. Once a car part has been lifted you get enough space to work from underneath. There are so many styles and brands of car jacks available in the automobile markets; however, car jacks are divided into two broad categories:

Mechanical jacks or jack-screws lift the car off of the ground by help of screws and levers working together. They are inexpensive but are more prone to damage and mechanical stress.

Hydraulic jacks are used for heavy equipment and racing teams. Fluid pressure is used to lift the car from the ground.  Hydraulic jacks are expensive and are quite tricky to use.

Instructions

Steps to use a jack:

• Park your car on a flat level surface. Switch the car engine off, and the gear must be set to first gear for manual transmission and park for an automatic transmission.

• During repairing refer to your owner’s manual to check where the manufacturer recommends placing the jack.

• After placing the jack at the recommended location then operate the lever.  Most jacks come with switches labeled “R/L.”  To life or raise the vehicle move the switch to ‘R’.

• Operate the lever until you reach the manageable height and clearance. Before making any repairs or replacements, check that the jack is secure.

• After finishing the repair job, turn the switch to the “L” position to lower the jack.

• Carefully handle the lever and set the vehicle on the ground.

Jacks are very useful for maintenance, auto repair and customization tasks.  Following these steps, you can lift up your car safely and conveniently.