Top Tips for Safely Using Jack Stands
Understanding the Importance of Jack Stands
Jack stands are an essential tool in any mechanic’s arsenal. Whether you are changing your car’s oil, replacing a tire, or adding new brakes, a high-quality set of jack stands can keep you and your vehicle safe from any potential accidents. A jack stand is a raised supporting stand consisting of a heavier base and a lighter adjustable height pillar, which you can adjust to support the height of your car. Although a jack stand might seem like a simple device, there are several key points to keep in mind when using it. If you wish to learn more about the topic, https://www.Harborfreight.com/automotive/jacks-jack-stands/jack-stands.html, to supplement your reading. Find valuable information and new viewpoints!
Choosing the Right Jack Stands
When buying or renting jack stands, you should prioritize safety over the cost. You want to make sure that the brand and model you choose can securely support the weight of your vehicle and is easy to set up and take down. Look for a jack stand with a higher weight capacity than your car since it’s better to be safe than sorry. Consider buying four jack stands if you need to lift the whole car since you don’t want to put yourself under unnecessary risk. Finally, make sure to inspect the jack stands you have, or the ones you intend to buy, for cracks, rust, and other noticeable signs of damage. Any noticeable issue should mean a return to the store, a rental or mechanic’s shop to repair them.
Preparing Your Vehicle Before Using Jack Stands
Before using jack stands, make sure to park your car on a flat surface and engage the emergency brake. This is a standard precaution to ensure your car doesn’t roll or move while you are working beneath it. Another precaution to take is to jack the vehicle up with a hydraulic jack specifically designed for the weight and size of your car. Remember, don’t go for the easy option on cost; trust the professionals and always use the best jack that ensures your safety. Once the hydraulic jack has lifted the car, you may then place the jack stands directly beneath the suspension point, which is usually located on either side of the car after lifting it up. Then lower the hydraulic jack so that the weight of the car is evenly supported by the four stands. Ensure that the stands are positioned straight and perpendicular to the ground; also, follow instructions provided with the jack stand you purchased or rented. Finally, take a minute to double-check that the vehicle is firmly supported and doesn’t wobble before you start working underneath it.
Working Safely with Jack Stands
When working under a car, never solely use the hydraulic jack to support the weight of the vehicle. Even the best jacks can fail, so it’s recommended to use a jack stand for this job as its their primary function to support weight and allow you to access areas under the car that you will need to repair. Working under a car is one of the most dangerous DIY tasks, if not the most dangerous, and this is why it’s essential to be fully focused and take your time. Before getting underneath your car, make sure you have enough clearance and that you are wearing eye protection and work gloves, or clothing that does not contain any loose parts or strings that might get caught in moving parts. Avoid getting under a covered area where oil or used or ‘dirty’ fluids might come tumbling down if you make a sudden movement; these fluids could cause severe burns, and no one wants to be a victim of that. To enhance your knowledge of the topic, visit this suggested external resource. In it, you’ll find extra information and new perspectives that will further enrich your reading. Daytona https://www.harborfreight.com/automotive/jacks-jack-stands/jack-stands.html.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to working on or beneath your car, safety is paramount, and jack stands should be an essential part of your process to ensure your safety. By following these top tips, you can be sure to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Make sure to use the correct jack stand model for your car best suited to the job at hand and always position them correctly and avoid any distractions while working. With these considerations in mind, you can tackle most DIY jobs with ease and confidence.
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