Load Ratings Explained: How Much Can Your Jack Really Handle?
The jack stands as one of the most vital yet least understood tools for vehicle lifting operations. The actual lifting power of your jack depends on its load rating, which determines its operational limits for different vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles. Many drivers, along with some technicians, fail to understand jack load ratings, which can create hazardous situations during garage work and roadside repairs.
The knowledge of load ratings goes beyond numerical values because it ensures safety while improving work efficiency and safeguarding your vehicle and personal safety. This article explains jack load ratings in detail while guiding readers through these specifications and selecting appropriate jacks for different applications.
What Is a Jack Load Rating?
A jack’s load rating indicates the highest weight it can safely lift. The weight capacity of jacks appears in tons as part of the rating system (2-ton, 3-ton, 12-ton). A 2-ton jack can lift 4,000 pounds but a 12-ton jack can handle 24,000 pounds.
The weight capacity of a jack refers to its lifting power rather than the total weight of the vehicle. The jack will never support the complete weight of your car or truck because it only handles one corner or end at a time. Using a jack with insufficient load capacity will lead to equipment failure, which poses risks to vehicle safety and human well-being.
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