How-to-properly-use-an-air-hydraulic-jack

How to Properly Use an Air Hydraulic Jack?

Post by JR Air Tools
Aug 24 2025

How to Properly Use an Air Hydraulic Jack | JR AIR TOOLS

When it comes to heavy-duty truck and equipment maintenance, an air hydraulic jack is one of the most essential tools in any repair shop or fleet service center. However, like any professional lifting equipment, proper usage and maintenance are critical for extending its lifespan and ensuring maximum safety.

At JR AIR TOOLS, we not only manufacture durable and reliable air hydraulic jacks, but we also want to help you get the most out of your equipment. Below are six essential tips every operator should follow when using an air over hydraulic jack.

1️⃣ Always Use a Jack Extension

🔧 Always place at least one jack extension between the jack and the lifting point.
✅ The extension absorbs most of the pressure instead of the piston.
✅ Significantly reduces wear on the hydraulic system.
✅ Extends jack service life and saves repair costs.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep different height extensions in your shop for various vehicles.

2️⃣ Place the Jack on a Stable, Flat Surface

🛑 Never lift on uneven or soft ground.
🪨 Always use a flat, level, and solid surface that can support the vehicle’s weight.
⚠️ Risk of slippage or collapse is high if the surface isn’t stable.

💡 Extra Safety: On softer ground, place a steel plate or wood block under the jack base.

3️⃣ Jack at the Correct Support Point

🚛 Position the jack under strong structural points, such as:

  • Frame rails (especially boxed-frame sections near body mounts).

  • Front crossmember or subframe (for front lifting).

  • Rear differential housing or axle tube (for rear lifting).

⚠️ Avoid suspension arms or fragile parts—they are not designed to bear the full vehicle load.

4️⃣ Stop Applying Pressure at Maximum Height

🔊 When the jack reaches its maximum lifting height, you’ll hear a distinct sound change.
🛑 Stop immediately and return the switch to neutral.

❌ Continuing to add pressure may cause:

  • Excessive internal pressure

  • Failure to lower the jack

  • Serious piston damage

5️⃣ Lower the Jack to Minimum Position When Not in Use

⬇️ Always lower the jack completely when it’s not being used.
🔒 This relieves stress on the piston and seals, protecting internal parts.
✅ Prevents premature wear and extends jack life.

6️⃣ Maintain Hydraulic Oil Levels Regularly

🛢️ Check hydraulic oil every 6 months (or sooner if lifting speed decreases).
✅ Top up with manufacturer-approved oil.
⚠️ Low or degraded oil can cause slow lifting and increased internal wear.

📋 Quick Safety & Maintenance Checklist

✅ Step 📌 Action
1. Extension Use at least one jack extension to protect the piston.
2. Stable Surface Always lift on flat, solid ground.
3. Correct Point Jack from frame rails, crossmember, or axle/differential.
4. Max Height Stop when fully extended; don’t over-pressurize.
5. Lower Down Store jack in its lowest position.
6. Oil Check Inspect/refill every ~6 months.

💡 Final Thoughts

By following these six tips, you ensure:
🔒 Safe lifting practices
⚙️ Optimal tool performance
⏳ Longer jack lifespan

At JR AIR TOOLS, our heavy-duty air hydraulic jacks are built for professional fleets and truck repair shops. With the right usage and maintenance, your jack will serve you reliably for years.

🔧 Looking for a dependable air over hydraulic jack?
👉 Browse our full range of heavy-duty jacks and accessories at jrairtools.com.

Share: