All about rack and pinion jacks

The outstanding performance properties of modern lifting mechanisms fully explain the desire of many to learn everything about rack and pinion jacks. First of all, it should be noted that today they are widely used in various fields. At the same time, rack-and-pinion jacks have become an integral part of the arsenal of motorists. This is most important for those who like to conquer off-road terrain.

The overwhelming majority of mechanisms with increased carrying capacity, from the point of view of design features, belong to the category of rack and pinion jacks. Itself design includes a toothed rack located vertically, as well as a base and a unit for fixing weights. It can be called with complete confidence as simple and reliable as possible.

The main competitive advantages of the device, which is called rack and pinion, are impressive payload and increased efficiency... This mobile mechanism handles heavy loads with ease. We are talking, in particular, about vehicles, on the basis of which many consider such a jack to be automobile. Numerous positive reviews from equipment owners are due to, among other things, its multifunctionality.

Objectively assessing the performance of the described equipment, it is worth highlighting its following clear advantages:

• maximum reliability and ease of use;
• mobility, allowing you to use the jack in hard-to-reach places, conditions of limited space;
• maintainability;
• durability;
• multifunctionality;
• the ability to use both in vertical and horizontal positions.

Another feature of rack-and-pinion mechanisms is lifting loads in two ways: on the paw and directly on the head itself. The second option provides for an emphasis on the top plate, which has a relief, which, in turn, prevents slipping. The use of the foot and bottom plate is most useful in situations where the load is too low. It is important to take into account that in this case, the device will operate with a load capacity reduced by almost a third.

To fully understand the principle of operation of a rack and pinion jack, you must first have an idea of ​​its structure. The design of modern Hi Jack models includes the following elements:

• upper bracket and its bolt;
• the rail of the so-called perforated type;
• switch and switch bolt with washer and nut;
• handle (lever) made of metal, with a holder and a lock;
• connecting rod, axle and connecting rod bolt;
• a large lifting platform with a so-called beak;
• return bar and spring;
• cross and lift fingers;
• lifting pin spring;
• small area;
• Heel and cotter pin.

The operation algorithm of all rack and pinion jacks is based on moving the load between the two platforms mentioned above, placed on the rail. In this case, the connecting rod is responsible for the transmission of pressure. At the initial stage of lifting, the handle is located strictly vertically, and the entire load falls on a large platform. As soon as the lever is lowered, the connecting rod abuts against the small platform.She, in turn, transfers the load to the upper stop until the finger is in the next cell.

Lowering the load is carried out in the reverse order. The small platform takes all the load when the lever is in the horizontal position. As the handle is raised, the large platform is directed downward until the pin is one hole in the rack lower.

As already noted, the considered type of devices for lifting large-sized and heavy loads is a multifunctional equipment. Based on this, it is worth considering how exactly such jacks are used, in particular for cars. In this case, we are talking about the following options for lifting the vehicle.

• For the structural elements of the vehicle. In this case, the lifting device itself is initially placed on a hard surface. In practice, jacking up a car behind such reinforced elements as sills is one of the most effective and convenient. As a result, it is possible to get out of a deep rut or pit on the off-road.
• For the wheel. This option is relevant in cases where the above structural elements are absent or do not have sufficient rigidity. It is important to bear in mind that this option for using the jack provides for the presence of a special device called the Lift Mate. It is put on the "beak" of the jack and is hooked onto the wheel disk of the vehicle using slings with hooks.
• For the bumper. This method is effective both when "saving" a car, and when performing repair work. We are talking, in particular, about the replacement of wheels. Some Hi Jack models come with a Bumper Lift, which is a chain sling. It is equipped with a "beak" attachment and a hook with which you can grasp the various strength elements of the car located under the bumper.

In addition to all of the above, the rack and pinion mechanism is capable of effectively perform the functions of a winch... Earlier, attention was focused on the versatility of Hi Jack. Often, off-road conquerors have to deal with the need to free the vehicle from the mud or snow captivity. If the car needs to be moved a short distance, then the capabilities of the rack and pinion lift may well be enough. It is important to take into account that the maximum rail length of the vast majority of Hi Jack models is 1.5 meters.

It should also be remembered that rack and pinion jacks are in demand not only by jippers.

Now on the market there is more than a wide range of lifting mechanisms. Their list includes, for example, a gear jack. Moreover, all available devices can be divided into two main categories - manual and electric. In turn, each of them, taking into account the design features, has the following types:

• pneumatic;
• screw;
• hydraulic;
• rack and pinion.

In a situation with rack and pinion jacks, special attention deserves wall models... They are able not only to lift and lower the load, but also to move it horizontally. They are often used when manipulating heavy gates or covers of large equipment.

At the moment, one of the industry leaders is American brand Hi-Lift. There are two types of rack and pinion jacks of this brand on the Russian market. These are devices made of steel and cast iron. They are equally successful in lifting and securing loads up to 1.5 tons.

One of the key competitive advantages that is profitable highlights Hi-Jeck against the background of most other types of jacks, is the lifting height. However, other characteristics also matter when choosing a particular model of the lift. High-quality reviews and objective ratings, which include the best representatives of the model lines of leading manufacturers, help to understand the wide range of models on the market.

As already noted, the list of the most popular models includes products from the American by Hi Lift. The rack jacks it produces are better known as the Hi Lift Jack. At the moment, they have found more than widespread use.

Hi Lift 485:

• length - 120 cm;
• weight - 13 kg;
• working height of lifting - 99 cm;
• working load capacity - 2,268 kg;
• critical load - 3,175 kg.

Another fairly common model is Hi Lift Jack 605... It has the following parameters:

• length - 150 cm;
• weight - 14 cm;
• working lifting height - 127 cm;
• working load capacity - 2,268 kg;
• critical load - 3,175 kg.

Another model of jacks that is represented on the US market and manufactured in the PRC is AE&T 48 T41003... The device is capable of lifting loads to a height of 10.5 m and weighs only 13 kg. In addition to these indicators, its main advantages include:

• maximum simplicity and ease of use;
• no slippage of the handle (lever);
• maximum stability provided by a wide support.

Celestial Empire in the considered market segment is represented by MATRIX 505155. The model is made of high quality material, ensuring adequate durability. The device is capable of lifting loads weighing up to 3 tons and holding them at the desired height. It should be noted that the lower pickup threshold of this jack is 153 mm, and the maximum lifting height is 0.7 m.... It is widely used in service stations in the process of repairing cars and even minibuses.

Another representative of the family of Chinese lifting mechanisms, which occupy a leading position in the current ratings, is the model SkyWay S-01803005. Thanks to the introduction of advanced technologies and innovative solutions, the developers have been able to minimize the time spent on raising and lowering the vehicle and other loads using this rack and pinion jack. Smooth movement in both directions is ensured by a high-quality stepping mechanism. At the same time, the maximum carrying capacity is 3.5 tons.

Inforce 08-08-03 - professional lifting equipment from a Russian manufacturer. This model has become part of the arsenal of many tire shops and service stations. One of the key competitive advantages in this case will be the maximum service life, even under the most severe operating conditions.

When choosing a specific model of equipment, it is strongly recommended to first study the device, the principle of operation and the main characteristics of rack and pinion jacks. In this case, one of the key points will be the comparison of representatives of different lines. Also it is important to take into account that the safety of work performance directly depends on the correct choice.

When choosing a rack-and-pinion jack, it is recommended first of all to focus on the following criteria.

1. The carrying capacity, on which the specialization of the equipment will directly depend. In this case, we are talking about simple lifting of a passenger car, or about lifting and holding heavy loads. It is also worth paying attention to the weight of the instrument itself. A light jack will be more comfortable to use.
2. The dimensions, shape and quality of the support platform covering, which is responsible for the stability of the lift, and, consequently, the safety of its operation.
3. Pickup height. According to current statistics, models with low pickup are in the greatest demand.
4. Maximum lifting height. It is impossible to define the optimal indicator in this situation, since it is determined by the operating conditions.

Taking into account the listed points, you can make the most correct choice in each specific situation. But it is important to remember that now many manufacturers from different countries offer their products. Which one to give preference to, each potential buyer decides individually, guided by experience, as well as financial capabilities.

The operation of any lifting equipment is inevitably associated with potential risks. This, of course, applies to situations where you need to raise and lower the car. But regardless of the work performed, it is strongly recommended to observe the following basic rules.

1. First of all, you must carefully study the instructions attached to the equipment.
2. In the process of performing any manipulations, people should not be near the lifted car or other load.
3. Carefully inspect the jack in order to identify damage in the form of chips and various deformations. Separately, it is worth focusing on the condition of the pins and rail.
4. The device, despite the simplicity of its design, must be regularly cleaned and serviced.
5. The equipment may only be operated with good quality lubricant (Teflon or silicone). This will maximize its service life.

Of course, in each specific case, the algorithm for working with a rack and pinion jack will have its own nuances. However, there is a certain instruction, according to which it is required to perform the following actions when raising and lowering the car:

1. Place shoes under the wheels of the vehicle.
2. Places the jack pad on a level and solid surface.
3. Raise the switch.
4. Turn the lever lock and pull it back slightly.
5. Set the "beak" under load, and then raise this element to the maximum safe stop.
6. Lower and raise the handle with both hands. In this case, the hook and heel of the jack must remain stationary.
7. When lifting to the required height, lock the lever horizontally.
8. Install an emphasis (most often special repair stands are used), lower the car on it and remove the load from the lifting equipment.

Lowering the vehicle or any other load is performed in the reverse order. This requires:

• position the jack correctly and slightly raise the object;
• remove the previously installed emphasis;
• raise the handle to a vertical position;
• lower the switch all the way;
• lower the load by moving the lever up and down;
• take the load off the equipment.

After completing the work, set the handle in a vertical position and fix it using a special mount.

It is important to remember that operation of any device and equipment can be associated with danger to health, and often life. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the observance of safety regulations. Naturally, rack and pinion jacking and lifting heavy loads are no exception.

It is important to remember that jacks of the type in question, regardless of all their performance indicators, it is not recommended to use it for long-term holding of the vehicle in the raised position. A frivolous attitude towards recommendations and overconfidence in the reliability of the device can lead to serious consequences.

There are a number of rules, the observance of which will help to secure the process of performing the necessary work as much as possible. We are talking about the following important points.

1. The machine should be as level as possible. Naturally, when conquering off-road, the fulfillment of this condition is almost impossible.
2. Before lifting a car, all its moving parts must be blocked.
3. You should also make sure that forward or reverse gear is engaged. It will not be superfluous to put the car on the handbrake. In other words, it is required to exclude the possibility of movement.
4. Lifting should be done smoothly, without jerking.
5. If necessary, place a solid material under the device support area. The use of bricks and similar items is not permitted.

After lifting the vehicle and installing the support, it is strongly recommended that you ensure that it is sustainability. To this end, you can shake the object from side to side. Only then is it allowed to carry out the intended work.

The instruction manual for the rack jack is presented in the video below.