Jack stands are important tools that car owners use for repairs, maintenance, and inspections. However, using jack stands requires great care to ensure safety and prevent accidents. In this article, we discuss five critical safety precautions that you should practice when using jack stands. Follow them to the letter to prevent injuries and property damage.
Use the Right Jack Stand Capacity
Jack stands come in a range of sizes and capacities. While it can be tempting to use a smaller jack stand for a bigger vehicle, this can lead to dangerous accidents. Ensure that you know the weight capacity of each jack stand before using it and that it matches the weight of the vehicle being lifted. Additionally, use only heavy-duty metal stands and stay clear of inferior materials that can easily collapse under pressure.
Proper Placement of Jack Stands
When lifting a vehicle, it is important to position the jack stands at the correct points. Check the vehicle’s owner manual to pinpoint the correct locations, which may vary depending on the car model and make. Generally, jack stands should be placed on solid ground, away from loose gravel, oil spills, or water. Moreover, position the jack stands where they can offer maximum support and stability to the vehicle.
Double Check Stands and Lifted Load
After placing the jack stands under the vehicle, it is important always to double-check their placements and the vehicle’s placement. Make sure that both stands are correctly positioned and are holding the vehicle’s weight evenly. Additionally, test the jack stands’ stiffness by shaking the vehicle gently. If the car moves or feels wobbly, it means the jack stands are not secure and shouldn’t be used.
Never Work Underneath an Unstable Vehicle
This may seem like a no-brainer, but some vehicle owners still make this mistake. Never go beneath a car that is only held up by a jack stand. Even with the correct precautions, there is always a possibility of jack stands failing, causing the vehicle to fall and cause injuries, or worse, death. You should use a hydraulic hoist or ramps to lift the car if you need to go underneath it.
Handle the Load Sensibly
When loading or unloading the vehicle from the jack stands, ensure that the load is balanced. Load or unload the vehicle slowly, ensuring that the weight is continually spreading evenly between the stands. Additionally, don’t rush or use force to fit the vehicle onto the jack stands since this can lead to the stands tipping over or dislodging. Improve your educational journey by visiting this suggested external site. There, you’ll find additional and interesting information about the subject covered in this article. Jack Stand https://www.harborfreight.com/automotive/jacks-jack-stands/jack-stands.html.
Jacks stand are a must-have tool for car owners, but it’s crucial to practice safety precautions when using them. Before working on your vehicle, ensure you employ the above safety precautions to prevent accidents or injuries that can cause your life or limb. Remember, safety should always come first.
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