Air Hydraulic Jacks can be highly effective and massive time savers in many workshops. However, many garages are not quite sure what to look for when choosing a jack, so tools experts Chicago Pneumatic have offered some useful advice in the form of a six step guide.

Chicago’s tool experts say that Step 1 is all about identifying the type of vehicle most commonly lifted.  To know the required lifting capacity, technicians should check the weight of the vehicles they are working on. There are many different jack types with different capacities. For lighter vehicles such as cars, SUV, and pick-up trucks a trolley jack is recommended, with a lifting capacity of between 2 and 3 tons. For heavy vehicles (trucks, buses, agricultural and construction vehicles, etc.) an air hydraulic jack with a lifting capacity that can vary from 30 tons to 100 tons, depending on the manufacturer and the model is suggested.

Two important things to remember are the lifting capacity of an air hydraulic jack varies for each lifting step: For a 50-ton air hydraulic jack, depending on the lifting height required, the lifting capacity varies between 15 and 50 tons.  Also when using an air hydraulic jack, you don't lift 100% of the vehicle's weight, but between 1/4 to 1/2 of the vehicle, for example to change wheels.

Step 2 is to make sure the hydraulic jack will fit the height requirements. The free working space below vehicles is getting smaller every day. This is why you can now find more compact air hydraulic jacks, also called "low profile", that can fit into the smallest of areas. Some other hydraulic jacks will come with extensions, enabling you to extend the maximum height for specific applications.

The available air pressure is the third vital consideration. Before buying equipment, a garage should always check that it’s airline set up is up to the job. For example 30, 50, 80 Ton  Air Hydraulic Jack Models need an air pressure of 116-174 PSI / 8 - 12 bars, while 100 ton models need 130 - 174 PSI / 9 - 12 bars.

A fourth step to identify is type of usage. Mobile workers need to consider size weight and transportation, so factors such as a carrying handle can be vital.

Step 5 is product quality and durability. Not only do you want a tool to last you also need it to be safe and easy to use. Chicago Pneumatic jacks come with quality CE, TUV and ASME certifications.

Finally Chicago Pneumatic points out that good ergonomics are vital. How easy is the jack to handle? How does it feel? Is it easy to place under vehicle and how easy is it to operate and manoeuvre.

Chicago Pneumatic offers a full range of Air Hydraulic Jacks for all requirements. For more information visit www.cp.com or contact a local stockist.