How Does An Air Hydraulic Jack Work?

Introduction to Air Hydraulic Jacks

As a car owner, having the right tools for vehicle maintenance and repair is crucial. One essential tool is the air hydraulic jack, which simplifies the process of lifting your car for tasks such as changing a tire, performing routine maintenance, or accessing the underside of your vehicle. This versatile and efficient equipment is an indispensable addition to any toolkit. But what are they?

What Are Air Hydraulic Jacks?

Hydraulic air jacks are powerful lifting devices that combine hydraulics and compressed air to raise heavy loads, such as vehicles, with minimal effort. They operate by using compressed air to pressurise hydraulic fluid, which then extends a piston to lift the load.

This sudden and intense force will lift heavy loads somewhere between 15 and 30 tonnes.  

How all the components of an Air Hydraulic Jack work together

An air hydraulic jack operates using hydraulics, transferring force via a liquid—hydraulic fluid—using compressed air.

An air hydraulic jack comprises several key components that work in unison to provide efficient lifting. The air inlet connects to an air compressor or external air source, filling the air chamber with compressed air.

This pressure is applied to the hydraulic fluid reservoir, which contains the hydraulic fluid that transfers the generated force.

Valves regulate the fluid flow between the reservoir and the cylinder, which houses the piston and piston rod.

As hydraulic fluid enters the cylinder, it moves the piston, which extends the piston rod to lift the saddle, the part that contacts the vehicle’s lifting points.

Finally, the release valve allows controlled fluid flow back into the reservoir, lowering the jack smoothly.

It’s worth mentioning that even without activating the release valve, the pressure-fueled reaction that lifted the vehicle by 2-3 feet can, over time, bleed out into the environment making them very unsafe to climb under.

It’s for this reason that they’re not suitable as car lift or hoist.

Benefits of Using an Air Hydraulic Jack

Air hydraulic jacks provide significant benefits compared to traditional jacks, making them a preferred choice for many users. They offer increased lifting capacity, enabling them to handle heavier loads and larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. The use of compressed air allows for faster operation, raising and lowering vehicles quickly as they are operated by a simple lever or button.

These jacks also offer enhanced stability thanks to the hydraulic fluid, which ensures a stable lifting platform and reduces the risk of slipping or tipping. Many models are designed to be compact and lightweight, enhancing portability and ease of storage. Additionally, air hydraulic jacks are versatile tools suitable for various tasks beyond lifting vehicles, such as pressing and spreading operations, making them valuable in both automotive and industrial settings.

Different Types of Air Hydraulic Jacks

Air hydraulic jacks come in various types to meet different needs: bottle jacks are compact and portable, ideal for tight spaces or roadside emergencies; floor jacks feature a low-profile design and long lifting arm for flat surfaces; trolley jacks, similar to floor jacks, have wheels for easy maneuvering; scissor jacks are lightweight and often included in vehicles for emergencies; heavy-duty jacks are designed for larger vehicles like trucks and buses with higher lifting capacity; and low-profile jacks are suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance, such as sports cars.

Choosing the Right Air Hydraulic Jack for Your Car

When choosing an air hydraulic jack, ensure its lifting capacity exceeds your vehicle’s weight, and select one suitable for your specific vehicle type.

Hydraulic car jacks come in a variety of weight capacities, ranging from 1 tonne to 80 tonnes or more. It’s important to choose a jack with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your vehicle to ensure safe and efficient lifting. Our AutoQuip KT-80T2 can lift between 40 tonne and 80 tonne.

Measure your vehicle’s ground clearance to ensure compatibility with the jack’s lifting point clearance. For travel, opt for a lightweight and compact model. Additionally, determine whether you have access to an air compressor or need a jack that can operate with a portable air source.

Safety Precautions When Using an Air Hydraulic Jack

To safely use an air hydraulic jack, read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines. Inspect the jack for damage, leaks, or worn parts before each use, and position it on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels, lift the vehicle at manufacturer-recommended points, and never exceed the jack’s lifting capacity. Always use jack stands to support the vehicle before working underneath, keep clear of the vehicle while lifting or lowering, and wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots.

In theory, they should be able to hold a car indefinitely but this isn’t likely. When working with bigger or heavier vehicles, the pressure created by the pumps will fade faster, so move carefully.

If you have any doubts at all regarding the condition of your air hydraulic jack, please do not proceed with using it.

Maintenance and Care for Your Air Hydraulic Jack

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your air hydraulic jack. Clean the jack to remove dirt and grease after each use, and lubricate moving parts like the piston rod and pivot points with recommended lubricants. Check for and promptly address any hydraulic fluid leaks, replacing worn parts with genuine replacements. Store the jack in a dry, protected area and follow the recommended maintenance schedule, including inspections and fluid changes. Use only manufacturer-approved hydraulic fluids and apply rust-preventative coatings if necessary to protect against corrosion.

Common Troubleshooting Tips for Air Hydraulic Jacks

Address common issues with these tips:

• Jack Won’t Lift or Lifts Slowly: Check air supply, air hose, hydraulic fluid levels, and clean the air filter.
• Jack Leaks Hydraulic Fluid: Inspect seals, gaskets, and replace faulty components.
• Jack Saddle Won’t Extend or Retract: Remove obstructions, lubricate moving parts, and inspect the release valve.
• Jack Makes Unusual Noises: Check for loose parts, lubricate, and inspect for air leaks.
• Jack Loses Height or Stability: Inspect for leaks, check the cylinder and piston, and ensure proper loading.

Seek professional assistance if issues persist or if the jack appears damaged.

Conclusion: The Convenience and Efficiency of Air Hydraulic Jacks

Air hydraulic jacks have revolutionised vehicle maintenance, offering powerful lifting capabilities, ease of use, and versatility. Understanding how they work and choosing the right type ensures safety and optimal performance. By following safety precautions and maintaining your jack properly, you can rely on this essential tool for all your automotive tasks. Investing in a high-quality air hydraulic jack simplifies car maintenance and provides peace of mind, knowing you have a reliable and powerful tool at your disposal.

AAQ for your Air Hydraulic Jack Needs

At AAQ, we sell an extensive and high-quality range of air hydraulic jacks that are worth checking out. Prices for air hydraulic jacks range from AU $299 for our (smaller) 3-Tonne Hydraulic Floor Jack to AU $1,530 for our Autoquip KT-80T2 40-80 tonne lifting jack.

Visit our website today to browse, or contact us to find out more.