The best hydraulic jack for a car: review, description, types and reviews

In the economy of any car enthusiast there must be a reliable jack. This tool is indispensable in repair work and when replacing wheels. Also it can be used in working with other equipment, the lifting of which requires the application of additional force. The market offers models for different purposes - for example, trucks require the use of models with high load ratings, and the car can also be serviced by entry-level devices. Of course, there are many other parameters that will help determine the best hydraulic jack for the car in terms of operational requirements. But first you need to find out why this particular type of jack can be considered as the best option.

Advantages of hydraulic jacks

This type of construction is advantageous for two reasons. First, the hydraulic mechanism can be considered universal in terms of the ability to work with different types of equipment - from the "light car" to the loaded wagon. Secondly, users note a multiple increase in effort, which provides a hydraulic jack for the car. The device of the instrument can be different - for example, there are so-called "bottle" and sub-models. In the first case, the design provides for the presence of a piston cylinder, a bypass valve and a pump with a lever. This variety is characterized by a combination of smooth running and high load capacity. However, the workflow with such a tool is impossible without a high level of pick-up.

Depending on the model and its characteristics, "bottles" can be used in the maintenance of trucks. But it is more expedient to provide a sub-hydraulic jack for a car with a large mass. Such models seem to be a wheeled truck equipped with a handle.

Optimum load capacity of the jack

Any jack has a limitation on the mass with which it can work. Manufacturers categorically do not recommend abusing the extreme capabilities of the tool. In the selection process, care should be taken to evaluate the load ratings of a specific model. In particular, for a car you can use a device that can withstand 1.5-2 tons. This will be enough for lifting a massive sedan, not to mention the hatchbacks common in our country. If you need a hydraulic jack for trucks, then you should orient yourself to a wider range on average from 10 to 20 tons. For example, if the tool is purchased for a small van, then maybe 8-10 tons.

But in the case of wagons, the maximum load capacity can be 30 tons, if the lifting is carried out in the laden state. It would seem that a win-win option would be the initial purchase of a device with the maximum load capacity in its class. But as the operational capabilities increase, the cost of the tool also increases, so it is desirable to seek a balance.

Lifting height indicators

This parameter indicates the height from the surface on which the tool can potentially lift the load. Typically, this value is 30-50 cm. This height is sufficient to replace the car wheel or provide access to the handbrake units. Unfortunately, among the shortcomings that a hydraulic jack for a car has, this figure also appears. That is 50-100 cm for most models of this type is the limit level. If it is necessary to use a tool with a great potential for lifting in height, then it is better to turn to rack and pinion jacks. True, this is almost the only advantage over hydraulic analogs.

Pick-up height

Sometimes this parameter is confused with the height of the rise, but there is a fundamental difference. In this case, for example, we can talk about the distance from the surface surface to the bottom of the machine - it is at this point that there is a grip zone for further lifting. The main thing in choosing this characteristic is to make a correct comparison of the tool's capabilities and vehicle clearance, that is, the ride height. For example, a hydraulic jack for a sub-prime type car is capable of lifting models with a ground clearance of less than 2-3 cm. This is the lowest limit in pick-up rates. As for the upper limit, it does not matter in the case of cars. Most jacks are suitable for working with clearance of 6-20 cm. Also do not worry about off-road clearance. As a rule, it exceeds the indices of 20 cm, but for hydraulic models this value does not present difficulties in operation.

Jacks JET

A good example of a quality tool with a universal purpose is demonstrated by the Swiss company JET. In particular, its models of the JBJ series are quite common in garage workshops and specialized car-care centers, which in itself testifies to the reliability of this product. Also, a hydraulic jack for a JET car is used in private farms. The owners emphasize and convenient operation of the device, and the resistance of its surfaces to corrosion. By the way, a cylinder with a piston in models of this manufacturer is usually made of chromium. In the JBJ range, you can find variants with different characteristics, but the most demanded jack is a 12.5 ton lifting capacity and a lifting height of up to 17 cm. The owners especially highlight the possibility of using such jacks in different positions, including angular ascents.

Kraftool Jacks

Manufacturer Kraftool offers models with a wide operational capability. For example, the Expert Qualitat series represents elongated sub-models, which are used with equal success in both private households and professional workshops. As the owners say, such jacks surely cope with a load of up to 10 tons. At the same time, the range of pick-up varies from 16 to 56 cm. Of course, with such indicators, cars can be lifted only under the condition of high ground clearance, but otherwise it is a high-quality and universal hydraulic jack for Car. The price of models from Kraftool of this type is 6-8 thousand rubles.

Zubr lifting jacks

Equally worthy tool in the segment of hydraulic jacks are domestic manufacturers, in particular, the company Zubr. In the line of this brand, light models for use in private needs have gained particular popularity. For example, the jacks of the "Master" series are praised for mobility, compact dimensions and reinforced construction. Modification with a load capacity of 2 tons is optimal for servicing a car. It is worth emphasizing and a minimum pick-up of 13 cm, which is equipped with hydraulic jacks for passenger cars of this family. True, the characteristics of the model also determined its narrow specialization. The tool perfectly copes with the lifting of cars with low ground clearance, but it is not suitable for trucks with a mass exceeding 2 tons. In other words, this option is not suitable for universal tasks.

Airline Jacks

A good combination of high performance indicators are jacks of the AJ series from the manufacturer Airline. In the range you can find a hydraulic model with a subcategory, which provides insurance against falling loads and distortions. Also, the owners of the tool speak positively about the function of the special stock, which ensures the fastening of cargo at a certain height. The kit includes a special holder for the handle. The main characteristics assume a wide use of the instrument. For example, there is a model capable of lifting up to 3 tons and providing a lift height in the range of 13.5-39 cm. These are hydraulic jacks for cars, the price of which is in the range of 3-4 thousand rubles. Such an acquisition can be justified if it is planned to work with cars of a passenger type, but requiring a responsible approach. For example, it is advisable to equip car repairers and services specializing in maintenance of various equipment with this model.

Conclusion

The jack in the classical version is a simple device that greatly facilitates the repair work. The introduction of piston mechanisms in its design made it possible to achieve even greater efficiency while maintaining compact dimensions. To date, a hydraulic jack for a car is the best tool that allows you to quickly and reliably provide a lift. The variety of models and characteristics of this tool also opens wide possibilities for a choice. In addition to the paramount parameters in the form of lifting capacity and lifting height, experts recommend paying attention to additional options. As already noted, the presence in the design of the rod and special mechanisms of insurance makes lifting operations safer. At the same time, the cost of jacks with similar additions increases slightly.