Scissor jacks are an essential tool for mechanics and hobbyists alike. They can be used to lift and hold heavy objects in place, making them perfect for car repairs, home improvement projects, or any other task that requires a stable platform.
However, like all tools, they can go wrong. In this article, we'll show you how to fix a scissor jack when it's not working properly. Stay safe and get the job done right with our tips!
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Types of Scissor Jacks
There are mainly two types of scissor jacks. Details about both types have been elaborated on below:
1. Manual Scissor Jack:
This is the more common type of scissor jack – the ones that can be operated manually. These scissor jacks are more commonly seen being used for car repair and check-ins. This simple yet useful machine is also quite affordable.
Car owners always carry one in their trunk in case of a flat tire.
2. Electronic Scissor Jack:
Hydraulic or electronic scissor jacks are usually used by auto repair shops and such. They are preferred more than the manual ones as they seemingly operate more smoothly. Therefore, replacing parts using these jacks is comparatively easier.
The downside is that electronic scissor jacks are more costly than manual ones.
How Do A Scissor Jack Lift Vehicles
Between the two pieces of metal on a scissor jack, there is a threaded rod. Which, when you tighten, opens up the two metal pieces. Vice-versa, when you loosen the threaded rod, the two metal pieces close down. As this mechanism is similar to that of a scissor, it is called a scissor jack.
The following statements contain rules you should follow before changing the tires with a scissor jack:
Step 1: Park Your Car Somewhere Safe
Ensure that the car is standing in a safe location, without any debris or obstacles, such as pavement.
Step 2: Take Precautionary Measures
Make sure that you have chocked the wheels of the vehicle or have taken other measures to prevent it from turning.
Step 3: Place The Scissor Jacks
Place the scissor jack under the vehicle. If there are tabs present on the pinch weld of the car, place the scissor jack right between them.
Step 4: Tighten Them In Place
After lining up the scissor jacks properly on all of the required sides, tighten them in place. As you tighten, you can notice the vehicle rising up.
Step 5: Change The Tires
Proceed to change the tires or whatever you intend to do after securing the scissor jacks in place.
How To Repair Scissor Car Jack
A scissor jack may become damaged in several ways: the threaded rod may become loose, the jack may have bent, or it may even have rust.
According to these 3 common problems, their solutions have been stated as follows -
1. Loose Threaded Rod or Bolts
In such cases, you have to first dismantle the bolts of the scissor jack properly. Simply drill to remove the bolts, holding the jack steady in a fixed place. While removing the bolts, make sure not to strip out the mounting holes. In the same manner, drill in the new bolts in place.
2. Bent Scissor Jack
As mentioned previously, it is common to see scissor jacks bending as they have to withstand the heavyweights of the vehicles.
During such cases, you must replace the scissor jack and attempt not to repair it.
3. In The Case of Rust
If your scissor jack is a little rusty, try dowsing it in any recommended commercially available rust removal solution for hardware. Apply it with a paintbrush or dowse the jack in the solution.
Another alternative would be to use a chemical solution. Scrape off the rust and smoothen with sandpaper. If the rust has spread too much, it is recommended to discard the scissor jack and purchase a new one.
Safety Tips of Using A Scissor Jack
Apart from faulty scissor jacks, to prevent any accidents, certain scissor jack safety guidelines should be followed:
1. Always ensure that the jack has been properly positioned with the vehicle during the installation of the scissor jack.
2. You should never put your body underneath a vehicle while it is being supported by a scissor jack.
3. While a scissor jack supports a vehicle, it should not be lifted further with force. This may cause the entire vehicle to collapse.
4. It is advised not to have anything heavy in the car while using a scissor jack.
How To Lower A Scissor Jack Safely
Lowering a scissor jack properly is one of the most important parts of the process. Even with no faults within the jack, if you remove it incorrectly, this will definitely make your vehicle more prone to damage.
These two simple steps state how this can be done while changing a flat tire -
Step 1: Lower The Car Down
Using the scissor jack, gradually lower the car down onto the spare tire. The tire will slowly begin to touch the ground as it gets closer to it.
Step 2: Remove The Jack
Once the tire touches the ground, remove the scissor jack carefully by loosening the threaded rod.
Final Words
Well, there you have it; a few simple tips to get your scissor jack working like new again. Let us know your feedback on our how to fix a scissor jack guide in the comments.
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