Jacks and leveling tools work to lift, level and position heavy equipment, building structures or automobiles. There are many types of jacks, including floor, ratchet, bottle, scissor, screw and hydraulic jacks. Most are mobile units, but some are used in permanent installations, depending on the purpose. When deciding on the right type, consider factors such as load capacity, minimum height, lifting height, maximum height, safety locks and stops, power source and type of jack. RV leveling jacks, for example, are ideal tools for users that have motor homes parked on rugged, tilted or uneven terrain. They jacks put vehicles in a level position for safety and comfort.
Electrical jacks and leveling tools offer increased ease and convenience for users when stabilizing or leveling heavy loads. These electric floor jacks can raise and lower heavy loads with the push of a button. Additionally, they are user friendly and easy to install. Scissor jacks come in compact sizes to make it possible to get them under low vehicles or in tight spaces. Hydraulic jacks eliminate the need for electricity, making them more portable and versatile. Some are made of steel and have lifting capacities of up to 35 tons.
Look for accessories like floor locks to increase stability in trucks, workbenches and carts (i.e. mobile equipment) during loading and unloading. A floor lock comes with a non-skid rubber foot pad that keeps equipment stationary, and is usually made of heavy-duty steel with a bright zinc finish. Basement floor jacks come with locking pins and turning bars that increase the ease of height adjustment to suit the user and load. The telescopic style also helps a user properly position the brace for better leveling. Towing straps, connectors/couplers, leveling lasers and ramps are also critical accessories that work to improve user experience. Self-leveling cross line lasers, for example, make use of bright vertical and horizontal projections to provide accuracy for layout and leveling applications.
Some advanced models come with various mechanisms such as inflatable jacks that are air-powered and run on a compressed air system. These jacks have high lifting capacity and minimum height. Trolley jacks offer more stability and safety. Their wheels mean they can easily be rolled into position. For example, a 2-ton floor jack comes with a jack stand slot in the saddle. Different tool and equipment mechanisms come in simple designs that offer high lifting power. A standard steel motorcycle jack weighs 28lbs but comes with a 1,100lbs lifting capacity, allowing users to service their motorcycles with some ease. The jack also comes with replacement parts such as removable adapters that allow users to adjust height an additional 2 to 3in. Stackable jacks offer added convenience with increased adjustability. With these models, users can adjust as low or as high as needed.