If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road and need to change a flat tire, knowing how to use a manual car jack is essential. This simple tool can help you get back on the road quickly and safely.
Changing a tire can be a daunting task, especially if you've never done it before. But with the right tools and a little know-how, you can get the job done in no time. One of the most important tools you'll need is a manual car jack.
<strong>How to Work a Manual Car Jack
- Find a safe place to park your car. This should be on a level surface away from traffic.
- Engage the parking brake. This will help to prevent your car from rolling while you're working on it.
- Locate the jack points on your car. These are usually located on the frame of the car, near the wheels.
- Place the jack under the jack point. Make sure that the jack is stable and that it's not going to slip.
- Pump the jack handle to raise the car. Continue pumping until the tire is off the ground.
- Change the tire. Once the tire is off the ground, you can remove the lug nuts and replace the flat tire with a spare.
- Lower the car. Once the new tire is in place, you can lower the car by slowly releasing the pressure on the jack handle.
- Tighten the lug nuts. Once the car is on the ground, you can tighten the lug nuts to secure the new tire.
- Stow the jack. Once the tire is changed, you can stow the jack in its proper place in the trunk of your car.
Here are some tips for using a manual car jack:
- Always use the jack on a level surface.
- Make sure that the jack is stable before you start pumping.
- Never put your body under a car that is supported only by a jack.
- If you're not sure how to use a manual car jack, consult your owner's manual or ask a mechanic for help. With a little practice, you'll be able to change a tire quickly and safely using a manual car jack.
How to Work a Manual Car Jack
Gathering the Necessary Equipment
Before you begin, gather the following equipment:
- Manual car jack: This is the most important tool and should be rated for the weight of your vehicle.
- Lug wrench: This tool is used to loosen and tighten lug nuts.
- Wheel chocks: These are used to prevent the vehicle from rolling while it is jacked up.
- Safety glasses: Always wear safety glasses when working on your vehicle.
Choosing a Jacking Point
Image source: https://manuals.co/car-jack-location
Find the designated jacking points on your vehicle's frame. These points are usually indicated by notches or reinforced areas. Never jack up a vehicle from an inappropriate location, as this can damage the frame or body.
Positioning the Car Jack
Place the car jack under the designated jacking point. Ensure that the jack is stable and perpendicular to the ground.
Raising the Vehicle
Image source: https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/g34665555/how-to-use-a-car-jack/
Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that needs to be replaced. Do not fully remove them yet.
Slowly pump the jack handle to raise the vehicle. Raise it only high enough to clear the flat tire from the ground.
Securing the Vehicle
Place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the flat tire to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Fully tighten the lug nuts on the flat tire, but do not overtighten them.
Lowering the Vehicle
Slowly release the jack handle to lower the vehicle.
Once the flat tire is on the ground, fully tighten the lug nuts.
Stow Away the Equipment
Once the tire is replaced and secured, stow away the car jack, lug wrench, and wheel chocks for safekeeping.
.