Pit Jacks – find manufacturers and suppliers

Pit jacks - the indispensable helpers in every workshop!

Ever since there have been cars, there have also been workshop pits. In these, the mechanic can stand comfortably and repair the vehicle from below. The problem, however, is repairs to the axles and tyres. That is why pit jacks were developed. In every workshop, jacks are available for cars, trucks as well as other commercial vehicles depending on the type of vehicles. The jacks allow the vehicle to be lifted in stages so that the mechanic can get to the axles and tyres more easily.

Each axle jack has a certain maximum height. It is important to take this into consideration when purchasing. Pit jacks are available in floor-running and hydraulic versions. The hydraulically powered version allows for quicker work on the vehicle. Pits are generally suitable for all types of vehicles. These are chosen for garages when the ceiling is too low to operate a lift.

The basic requirement to ensure that the jack can be used safely and efficiently is that the outer walls of the pit are sturdy and of high quality. Pits need to be maintained regularly to avoid accidents. Pit jacks cannot grip if the walls are too slippery. In addition, the vehicle can fall off if the jack gives way due to the poor condition of the walls.

What are manufacturers expected to do?

First of all, manufacturers take into account the high safety requirements for jacks. The material must be rust-free, resistant and extremely strong. Flawless workmanship guarantees the safety of mechanics or hobbyists.

What types of jacks are there and what do manufacturers look for?

Manufacturers of suspended pit jacks take into account that this type should be able to withstand higher load capacities. Buyers expect them to achieve above average lifting heights. Loads between 5 - 10 tons must be possible. This means that these pit jacks are suitable for trucks. Manufacturers have to attach rails to the ceiling for this variant to make this pit lift mobile. This provides more flexible working for mechanics.

Producers of floor-mounted jacks ensure that the load of the vehicles is evenly distributed. This means that the gearbox and engine can also be dismantled. With a lifting height of one meter, both cars and trucks can be handled. Manufacturers produce these in rail-guided or stagnant versions.

What is important for hydraulic pit jacks?

Hard-chrome plated piston rods should be part of the standard equipment. This protects them from wear and corrosion. A bellows makes contamination difficult. Non-return valves should be fitted in every lifting position to protect against loads. To protect against overloads, the jack must be equipped with pressure relief valves. Guide bushes must be made of wear-resistant material. Ergonomic operation of the handwheel as well as the hand pump facilitate the work. Variable chassis are a must for every jack of this type.

Buyers appreciate additional equipment for hydraulic pit jacks such as internal chrome plating of the cylinders as well as telescopes (telescopic jacks). Furthermore, needle bearings as well as grease nipples (jack rollers) for better displaceability are appreciated. Buyers prefer an attached maintenance unit (pressure gauge, filter, water separator, pressure regulator) for pit jacks with pneumatic drive for easier handling.

How are pit jacks offered by manufacturers?

This can be via good specialist dealers or online directly from the manufacturers or DIY stores. The decisive factors are the material, the type of design and the maximum load capacity. As a quality feature, it is crucial that pit jacks must comply with the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and EN 1494.