Hydraulic Jacks: for Cars and Trucks 2–50 t

Bottle jacks are compact and powerful but have a relatively high minimum height, while trolley jacks suit low cars and fast workshop use. A mechanical scissor jack is light and easy to keep in the car, and a rack (high-lift) jack suits off-road vehicles and loads. See how to choose hand tools for automotive and mechanical service.

For cars, 2–3 t is usually enough, for SUVs and minibuses 3–5 t, and for trucks and machinery 10–50 t. A jack lifts only part of the vehicle, but choose it with a margin. Read how to choose hydraulic tool load capacity and working force.

The minimum pick-up height must be lower than the vehicle's jacking point: low-profile trolley jacks starting from 80–90 mm are available for low cars. Also check the maximum lift height and whether a bottle jack has an extension screw. See how to choose a hydraulic cylinder or ram.

Trolley jacks with a twin-piston pump reach the load faster, and a smooth lowering valve lets you lower the load under control. An overload valve prevents lifting more than the rated load. Read how to choose a hydraulic pump and power source.

For trucks, buses and farm machinery, air-hydraulic jacks are convenient: they lift the load with compressed air from a compressor without physical effort. They are also listed in the air tools section. Read how to choose an air-hydraulic jack.

A jack is for lifting only: before working under a vehicle, place axle stands, work on a level, firm surface and chock the wheels. See how to use hydraulic tools safely.

Check the oil level regularly, store a hydraulic jack upright with the ram retracted, and replace the seals with a repair kit if it leaks. Read how to store and maintain hydraulic tools and how to choose spare parts for pneumatic and hydraulic tools.