Scissor jack

Types of Scissor Jack

A scissor jack is a mechanical lifting device that can lift heavy loads (such as cars) to reach the desired height for repair or maintenance. The lifting mechanism of a scissor jack is like that of scissors, which is why it is called a scissor jack. The scissor jack has a compact design and is mostly used for roadside emergency flat tire changing. It can be manually operated or electrically powered. Here are the types of scissor jacks:

• Manual Scissor Jack

  Manual scissor jacks are the most common type. They are compact, lightweight, and inexpensive, making them suitable for emergency use in vehicles. Manual jacks include:

  H-Frame Scissor Jack: This jack has an H-frame and lifts the load with a center-mounted screw. Turning the handle clockwise moves the two arms of the jack closer, raising the load. Turning counter-clockwise lowers the load. The H-frame jack offers better stability.

  X-Frame Scissor Jack: The X-frame scissor jack has an X-frame design where the arms cross at the center. This jack is more stable and lifts the load faster than the H-frame jack. The lifting mechanism also uses a screw placed at the crossing point of the arms. Turning the handle moves the arms apart or closer, depending on the direction. X-frame jacks are usually used for heavy trucks or as garage jacks.

• Electric Scissors Jack

  Electric scissors jacks are more powerful than manual jacks. They are suitable for frequent lifting of heavy loads and are mostly used in garages and workshops. The electric motor drives the screw mechanism. Some electric scissors jacks come with rechargeable batteries.

• Folding Scissor Jack

  Folding scissor jacks are designed to be portable and have a compact folding size. This makes them suitable for emergency use, such as changing a flat tire. The folding mechanism works by sliding pins and levers in the jack's frame.

• Aluminium Scissor Jack

  Aluminium scissor jacks are light and portable. They are suitable for emergency use in vehicles. Aluminium jacks are corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use. However, they are not suitable for heavy-duty lifting because aluminium has a lower strength-to-weight ratio.

• Low-profile Scissor Jack

  Low-profile jacks are designed to lift low-clearance vehicles. They have a compact height and stable base but cannot lift loads to high heights.

Specifications and Maintenance of Scissor Jack

Scissor jacks come with various specifications that suit different lifting needs. Here are some common features:

• Load capacity: A scissor jack's load capacity is the maximum weight it can raise or support. For most car jacks, this is between 1,000 and 2,500 pounds (450 to 1,100 kg). A jack with a higher load capacity will be required to lift larger or heavier vehicles.
• Lifting height: This is the distance the scissor jack raises the vehicle. Lifting height for most jacks ranges from 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm). The jack's base and saddle will determine the minimum and maximum lifting height.
• Closed size: A scissor jack's closed size refers to its dimensions when it is fully collapsed. Smaller, lightweight jacks that are easily portable will have a smaller closed size. However, this may affect the load capacity and lifting height.
• Weight: The weight of a scissor jack can vary based on the material and design. Generally, jacks made from aluminum are lighter than those made from steel. The weight of the jack can affect its portability and ease of use.
• Material: A scissor jack is commonly made from steel or aluminum. Steel is stronger and more durable, making it suitable for heavy-duty jacks. However, jacks made with aluminum are lightweight and rust-resistant.

Maintaining a scissor jack is important to ensure safety and prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips on how to maintain a scissor jack:

• Regular inspection: Before and after each use, inspect the scissor jack for any signs of wear and damage. Check for rust, cracks, or bent arms. Ensure all moving parts are in good condition.
• Cleanliness: Keep the scissor jack clean. Wipe off any dirt, grease, or mud after each use. Regular cleaning prevents dirt from getting into the moving parts and causing damage.
• Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the moving parts of the scissor jack with a suitable lubricant. This reduces friction and prevents wear and tear. Use the manufacturer's recommended lubricant.
• Load capacity: Do not exceed the recommended load capacity of the scissor jack. Lifting a weight heavier than what the jack can handle increases the risk of failure, which can cause injury and damage to the vehicle.
• Proper storage: When not in use, store the scissor jack in a clean, dry place away from extreme temperatures. Keep it out of reach of children. This prevents damage and ensures safety.

How to choose a scissor jack

When buying a car scissor jack, here are the things to consider:

• Capacity:

  This is the weight the jack can lift. It should be higher than the weight of the vehicle to be lifted.

• Height Range:

  The minimum height of the jack should be less than the lowest point of the vehicle. The maximum height should be enough to lift the vehicle to change the tire safely.

• Size and Weight:

  A lightweight and compact jack should be considered for emergency use. A large jack should be considered for workshop use.

• Construction Material:

  A jack with a strong construction material should be considered. A jack with a lightweight construction material should be considered for emergency use.

• Ease of Use:

  When buying a scissor jack, the winding mechanism should be smooth and consider the handle length, as a long handle is easier to use.

• Stability:

  The jack should have a wide base or a safety mechanism to prevent the vehicle from falling while lifted.

• Price:

  More expensive jacks have more features and are made of better materials than cheaper jacks.

How to DIY and Replace Scissor Jack

To replace a scissor jack is an easy-to-follow process. Here are the steps:

• Remove the old jack

  Take out the old scissor jack from where it was kept. This might be the trunk of the car or under the back seat.

• Check the new jack

  Check the new jack to ensure it is working properly before putting it in. Make sure the jack is functioning properly by testing it on a solid surface. This is to be sure that the jack can lift the vehicle safely without slipping or failing.

• Put the new jack in place

  Find where the old jack was kept and put the new jack there. It is important to keep the scissor jack in its designated place so that it will be easy to find and use in case of emergency.

• Check to see if it is properly positioned

  After putting the new jack in place, check to see if it is properly positioned and secure. This is to ensure that it will be safe to use when the need arises.

Q&A

Q1. Are electric jacks better than scissor jacks?

A1. Electric jacks are not necessarily better than scissor jacks. It depends on the use case. For quick tire changes, an electric jack can be more convenient. However, scissor jacks are more portable and don't require a power source.

Q2. Can a scissor jack lift a truck?

A2. No, a standard scissor jack cannot lift a truck because it exceeds the weight capacity. Always check the jack's weight rating and use a suitable jack for heavier vehicles like trucks.

Q3. How to know if a jack is suitable for a particular vehicle?

A3. To determine if a jack is suitable for a vehicle, check the jack's weight capacity and ensure it exceeds the vehicle's weight. Also, consider the vehicle's ground clearance and ensure the jack can operate under it.

Q4. Is it safe to use a scissor jack on an uneven surface?

A4. No, using a scissor jack on an uneven surface is unsafe because it can lead to the jack tipping over, causing injury or damage. Always use the jack on a stable, level surface.

Q5. Can a scissor jack damage a vehicle?

A5. A scissor jack can damage a vehicle if used improperly, such as placing it on an unstable part of the vehicle. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid potential damage.