How to properly add oil to the hydraulic jack

How much oil to put in the hydraulic jack

Hydraulic jacks are used to lift heavy objects, such as cars. This is a standard tool in any auto store. The operation of the hydraulic jack is based on the fact that the fluid squeezes the cylinder, which pulls heavy objects off the ground. You can buy a hydraulic jack and special oil at any auto parts store. Use the tips below to put oil in the hydraulic jack.

To keep hydraulic actuators in operation, they need a special fluid to protect them from wear and tear. Hydraulic jack oil helps the jack system function at different temperatures and humidity levels.

Basic properties of hydraulic oil

The main thing that is required of such oil is to carry out the transfer of energy in steering, driving and drive. This fluid is an indispensable aid in the maintenance of bridges, production machinery, locks, and various apparatuses that require lubrication.

Hydraulic Oil

There are different types of hydraulic oil:

  • oil for industrial equipment and vehicles;
  • boat oil;
  • oil for aircrafts;
  • Oil for shock absorber and hydraulic brake systems.

Each type of liquid has its own composition, and therefore there is a classification “A”, “B”, “C”:

  • “A”. mineral oil with no additives;
  • “B”. with anti-corrosion and antioxidant additives;
  • “B”. refined oil that has anti-corrosion, anti-wear, and anti-oxidation additives in its composition.

Filling mechanisms

Here’s how to properly pour the recommended oil into the jack. Sometimes, if transported improperly, hydraulic fluid can spill out, the voids fill with air. This will cause the jack to malfunction. In this case, the oil must be changed.

The rack and pinion mechanism is quite large, it is used not only for lifting the body, but also for repairing old buildings. Before changing the lubricating fluid, the mechanism should be completely lowered. To make sure this is the case, the residual tension can be released by turning the discharge valve counterclockwise.

The filler neck is usually located on the reservoir body, more often on the bottom of the cylinder. You need to loosen the neck from the bolt or plug that securely protects the oil in the reservoir. Then you need a grease gun with a nozzle that fits in the nozzle and fills it.

The hydraulic oil is sufficient when it starts to overflow. Now it only remains to tighten the bolt or plug with force.

The way you fill the bottle jack with grease is a little different. But first you must also make sure that the mechanism is lowered to the stop. Use the same method as for the rack and pinion lubrication for a safety precaution.

In the bottle design, the plug is to be found on the top of the master cylinder body. First, the plug is removed, and the filling is done with a grease can, which is first filled with hydraulic oil, removing the air from it. The oil level in this case should be about 1/8 inch below the oil fill hole.

The oil change in the hydraulic jack has its own peculiarities. Before pouring, the mechanism should be disassembled and cleaned. Dirt and rust deposits can form on the piston. Next, the gaskets must be inspected (they wear out rather quickly) and replaced if their integrity is compromised.

Tip: When draining the old oil, you might lose the metal ball in the valve. Without this small part, the jack will not work. Drain with extreme care.

Do not open the valves yourself. This could lead to failure of the entire unit.

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Before you fill up with oil you have to pump the mechanism so it is free of air and drain the old fluid. Then you can start pouring through the special hole. It is tightly sealed with a plug on the thread.

The required level is indicated by a special ridge, which is located on the body. When the level has reached the mark, screw in the plug and pump the mechanism to get rid of any air s. The piston should be raised to its maximum. Then unscrew the cap again and refill and pump again. Do this several times, until the fluid begins to pour out. This is a sign that the fill level is correct. This procedure is easier to perform with an assistant.

As you were able to see, filling and changing the oil in the jack is simple enough, you just need to follow the recommendations that you learned in this article and do this operation yourself will not be difficult.

Nowadays, the hydraulic jack is becoming more and more popular among workers in repair shops, as well as among ordinary people. They are capable of lifting sufficiently heavy loads, while applying a minimum of effort to the work. This is the best option for modern life. Today it is possible to buy a hydraulic jack at almost any specialized store. Sometimes in the course of its operation may arise a situation when it is necessary to change the oil in the jack, which is not always easy to do.

Many do not even know how to do it. Hydraulics always works with oil, but it tends to evaporate and leak through the various leaky cracks in the device. How to change the oil will be described below. In fact, everything is very simple, the most important thing is to know what specific version of the device is in the garage. How to pour oil into the jack is a very pertinent question.

To begin with, everyone should find out what type of jack he has in his garage or trunk. Currently two types of hydraulic jacks are used. the rack and the bottle one. Both options are widely used, which is why we will consider the option of changing the oil in both.

Add oil to the hydraulic floor jack

Locate the oil filler port

The oil filler port of the hydraulic cylinder is on the jack’s reservoir. The reservoir is a large cylinder mounted on a flat jack base. The fill port is located at the bottom of the reservoir near the flat base of the jack.

Add oil

  • Unscrew the bolt from the filler hole.
  • Insert the nozzle of the oiler into the oil fill hole.
  • Pour oil into oil port.
  • Stop pouring oil as soon as it begins to leak from the oil filler port.

Features of the hydraulic jack design

What do the experts pour into the hydraulic jack and why do they make this choice, it becomes clear if you study the peculiarities of its construction and operation.

The oil liquid here is stored in the tank for as long as the hoist is not in use.

The end stop is now in the zero position, but as soon as it is lifted upwards, the lubricant flows into the cylinder block. Therefore, it is important that the oil viscosity is not too high.

So, the process of pumping the liquid is controlled by the pump and two valves (discharge and suction). When the pump piston rises, it creates a vacuum because the suction valve pulls in the lubricating oil.

When the piston lowers, the opposite process occurs, but by the action of the discharge valve. As the liquid increases in the working compartment, the stop, together with the load in the form of the car, rises up.

The mechanism is simple but effective and does not fail when the oil meets all viscosity and flow requirements.

How to choose the right oil for your hydraulic jack

In a suitable oil for the jack lift should be a large number of special additives. This is what guarantees the “correct” consistency of the fluid in terms of flowability. Here is what you should pay attention to before buying:

  • Viscosity index. The optimum is slightly above average, i.e. in the range of 32 to 46 VG.
  • The filtration degree. It is not indicated as a specific value on the package, but it is known that cheap oils and lubricants do not pay attention to sufficient filtration properties. That is why it is better to buy a fluid of a well-known brand.
  • Corrosion protection. This is particularly important if the hydraulic system is used infrequently, i.e. the mechanism is at a standstill.
  • Operating temperature range. The climate in which the hydraulic jack is used is important here.

Important note: It is better not to use industrial oils for the lifting device. It is much more suitable to use automotive lubricants, which are poured into the engine.

The main requirements to the oil for the hydraulic jack

What are the requirements for the oil for hydraulic jacks?

Compounds of various types may be used as working fluids. They may be based on mineral or synthetic raw materials, have different viscosities, include various combinations of additives.

However, there is a certain set of requirements that these fluids must meet:

  • Compounds for filling must have good filterability and low foamability. The air entering the system in the form of bubbles in the oil prevents the normal operation of the mechanism, reduces the height of the lift and can lead to dangerous situations
  • Jacks most often work in conditions of exposure to moisture, dust, dirt. In order to keep the performance of these devices for a long time, their parts must be reliably protected against the formation of corrosion. Therefore, the oil to be filled must have good corrosion protection properties
  • The viscosity and viscosity index of the operating-liquid should be chosen according to the operating conditions. Low viscosity index oils, thickening in sub-zero temperatures, will make jacking difficult or impossible. Liquids with low viscosity, on the other hand, will not provide sufficient lubricating and sealing functions
  • Another requirement for the liquid to be poured is dictated by the specific design of the unit. Rubber, from which seals are made, may not be resistant to some compounds. Such parts will rapidly deteriorate, causing failure of the entire mechanism. That is why only oils compatible with rubber seal materials should be used

What not to put in the jack?

Consider the possibility and consequences of pouring different compositions into the jack.

Theoretically, the device will operate even if ordinary water is poured into it. In this case, the surface of the parts will intensively develop corrosion, which will quickly put the mechanism out of operation.

Another popular misconception is about the possibility of using brake fluids. They should not be used in jacks!

Due to high hygroscopic properties, they accumulate moisture, which will cause corrosion of parts.

Recommended oil grades

As working fluids they successfully use spindle oil I20A, usual industrial oils of brands BMGZ, I12A. I30A, I40A or I50A brands have higher viscosity, therefore they are effective only in warm seasons for some models. But it is better to use special hydraulic fluids of low viscosity, because they have the optimal ratio of functions and properties that meet all requirements.

Hydraulic fluid in the jack. why oil is better?

Robust design and special weight distribution on lever and inside of jack, as well as its hydraulic basis make it possible to simplify greatly for a person to work with big and bulky loads. With such a jack, for example, you can lift a truck or container with cargo, as well as a small platform.

properly, hydraulic, jack

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As already mentioned, the main working element of the jack is the hydraulic fluid, which is poured inside in a sealed container. It allows you to lift loads of almost any weight, depending on the properties. There are several types of liquid that are poured into the hydraulic jack, and each has its own characteristics.

Typically, specialty oils are used as hydraulic fluids, which can be purchased at any auto store:

  • Some motor lubricant manufacturers offer brand-name hydraulic fluids for truck and car hydraulic systems, which can be used not only in brake and lifting systems, but also in the jack.
  • Besides it is also possible to use usual industrial types of industrial oil (I12A, I20A, I30A, I40A, I50A). Although the last three types of oil should be used carefully, because they are too viscous, so they may not be suitable for specific types of jacks. Also, due to their excessive hygroscopic properties, they can damage the jack by causing corrosion in the metals.
  • It is also worth understanding that brake fluid is only partially suitable for a hydraulic jack, because it is also too hygroscopic. As a consequence, the water will cause damage to the jack, also causing corrosion.

In extreme cases, the hydraulic jack should work even on water, but it is better to resort to using oil to avoid its breakage. The arguments for choosing the best oil are worth considering.

Hydraulic fluid in the jack. why oil is better?

Robust construction and special weight distribution on the lever and inside of the jack, as well as its hydraulic base make it much easier for a person to work with large and bulky loads. With such a jack, for example, you can lift a whole truck or a container with cargo, as well as a small platform.

Read more: A new driver’s license with a chip

As already mentioned, the main working element of the jack is the hydraulic fluid, which is poured inside in a sealed container. It allows you to lift loads of almost any weight, depending on the properties of. There are several types of fluid that are poured into a hydraulic jack, each with its own characteristics.

Usually, special oils are used as the hydraulic fluid and can be purchased at any car dealership:

  • Some motor lubricant manufacturers offer proprietary hydraulic fluids for truck and car hydraulic systems, which can be used not only in brake and lifting systems, but also in the jack.
  • You can also use normal commercial types of industrial oil (I12A, I20A, I30A, I40A, I50A). Although the last three types of oil should be used with care, because they are too viscous, so they may not be suitable for specific types of jacks. Also, they can cause damage to the jack by causing corrosion in the metals because of excessive hygroscopicity.
  • It is also worth understanding that brake fluid is only partially suitable for a hydraulic jack, because it is also too hygroscopic. Water will cause damage to the jack, also causing corrosion.

As a last resort, the hydraulic jack must work even with water, but to avoid damage it is better to resort to oil. We should consider the arguments for which oil is best to pour.

How to properly fill the jack with oil

Before a complete oil change or filling up, it is advisable to drain the old oil and dismantle the jack and clean all parts from deposits and dirt that may have formed. Inspect the rubber elements for wear and damage. Replace it if necessary.

During cleaning, the valves must be treated with particular care. Do not disassemble them unnecessarily, so as not to lose or damage small parts. springs and balls.

After cleaning, reassemble the jack and lower the rod to the stop. To do this, turn the exhaust valve head counterclockwise and apply some force to the piston rod.

There is a filler plug on top of the master cylinder head. It should be removed.

We have already decided what kind of liquid will be poured into the bottle jack and what kind of oil will protect the hydraulic jack best.

Use an oil can or syringe to force hydraulic oil into the oil filler opening. Make sure there are no air bubbles in the fluid. air in the system does not allow the jack to function properly.

Level of filled oil should be a little (about 3-4 mm) below the lower edge of the fill hole.

Reinstall the filler plug. Pump the jack without load until it stops and pushes the piston rod down. Remove the plug and fill to the correct level. Replace the plug and repeat the pumping process several times. This will remove any air that has entered the system.

Tips

There are three basic types of hydraulic fluids:

The second type is the safest, but also the most expensive, because it is created by complex technological processes. Glycol hydraulic fluids are also good for jacks because they do not interact with work surfaces and are not harmful to metals. In terms of price and quality they correlate with synthetic.

The cheapest type of hydraulic fluid is the mineral or petroleum type. For artisanal use, this is excellent, but does not guarantee good, long-lasting jacking. For those who prefer the cheaper options, using used machine oil that has been replaced in the engine in the jack is not a bad idea. But before you pour in an oil that has been recycled, you should make sure it is clean.

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What you need

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The standard variant of a liquid to fill in a mechanism is a spindle oil I20A. This product is universal and can be filled at any time of the year. The question is somewhat different with industrial greases BMGZ, I12A, I30A, I40A or I50A. These compounds will be quite effective only in warm seasons, but only for specific models of devices.

These variants are the most common due to their practicality and cheapness. If possible, it is worth buying specific formulations, especially for hydraulics. The fluid has a low viscosity level, and also, they combine the properties and capabilities that meet all the requirements.

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Warnings

  • Do not open overload valves or check valves. Failure to operate overload or check valves can cause damage to the bearings or springs in the hydraulic jack.
  • Be sure to remove all air inside the socket after filling with fluid.

What are the requirements for hydraulic jack oils?

Compounds of different types can be used as working fluids. They can be made on the basis of mineral or synthetic raw materials, have different viscosity, include a variety of combinations of additives.

However, there is a certain set of requirements that these fluids must meet in a mandatory manner:

  • Fill compounds must have good filterability and low foaming. The air in the system in the form of bubbles in the oil prevents the normal operation of the mechanism, reduces the lifting height and can lead to dangerous situations
  • Jacks are most often operated under conditions of moisture, dust, dirt. Their components must be adequately protected against corrosion if they are to function reliably for a long time. Therefore, the oil to be filled must have good corrosion protection properties
  • The viscosity and viscosity index of the operating-liquid should be chosen according to the operating conditions. Low viscosity index oils will make jacking difficult or impossible in colder temperatures. Low viscosity fluids, on the contrary, will not provide sufficient lubricating and sealing functions
  • Another requirement for the filling fluid is dictated by the specific design of the device. The rubber used for seals may not be resistant to some compounds. These parts will rapidly deteriorate, causing failure of the whole mechanism. Therefore, only oils that are compatible with the rubber seal materials may be poured into it
properly, hydraulic, jack

What not to put in the jack??

Consider the possibility and consequences of filling the jack with different compounds.

Purely theoretically, the device will work, even if ordinary water is poured inside. At the same time on the surface of the parts will intensively develop corrosion, which will quickly put the mechanism out of operation.

Another popular misconception. about the possibility of using brake fluids. They should not be used in the jacks!

Due to high hygroscopic properties they accumulate moisture, which will cause corrosion on parts.

Recommended oils

As working fluids they successfully use spindle oil I20A, common industrial oils of brands BMGZ, I12A. I30A, I40A or I50A brands have higher viscosity, therefore they are effective only in warm seasons for some models. However, it is still better to use special hydraulic fluids of low viscosity as they have the optimal ratio of functions and properties that meet all requirements.

What oil to fill in the hydraulic system

Operation of special equipment requires timely replacement of components, to keep the mechanisms in good working order, it is important to make regular maintenance and replace consumables as necessary. First of all, you need to know what oil to pour into the hydraulic system of forklift trucks, tractors, excavators, elevators. indispensable equipment necessary for loading and unloading operations. The fluid you put in the system contains several types of additives: antiwear, anti-corrosion and life-extending additives for the oil itself.

What kind of oil to choose

The range is really wide, but it is hard to understand it without knowing a number of nuances. Otherwise the seals could melt, and then you will need to repair hydraulic cylinders and look for a repair shop. Oil packages always indicate class and series, but it is impossible to choose a universal version for all models of special equipment. The main parameters to be taken into account when buying oil:

  • the temperature at which the equipment will be operated;
  • the parameters of the existing equipment;
  • the viscosity of the fluid at operating temperatures.

The viscosity is generally given in the operator’s manual for the forklift or elevator. This parameter is calculated on the basis of the maximum permeability of the minimum cross-section of the channels of the hydraulic system. This is due to the fact that for the normal operation of the system, the fluid must pass through the channels at a certain speed. That is why machines equipped with identical hydraulic pumps often use different types of oil.

Frequent reason of address to service repair of special equipment is the wrong choice of viscosity, leading to the fact that the equipment doesn’t pick up nominal power or works with malfunctions. You can usually find out which type is suitable by looking at a special table. It is located on the tank of the hydraulic system, or directly in the operator’s cab. But one must not forget about the temperature range, in which operation is performed. For Russian conditions modifications suitable for usage from 60 degrees up to 60°С are recommended.30.

The question, which oil to choose, domestic or imported, often arises before the buyers. If the operation is sparing, Russian brands will do, for example, MGE-46. But for heavy machinery, which is subject to permanent high loads, modifications of foreign brands are needed. Of course, there are also domestic developments that keep up with the characteristics of foreign products. Formerly imported oil of HLP class was mainly sold. Now the producers have started to produce HVLP class products. The main difference of the new development is higher resistance to extreme temperatures and larger amount of additives in composition.

The table below will help you decide which oil to use:

Domestic oils Foreign oils Working temperature range (depends on the type of hydraulic pump)
VMG-3 Shell Tellus Mobilfliud 93 from.53 to 75
MGE-46B Shell Tellus oil 46 Enargol HLP 46 from.20 to 80
HVLP 32 HVLP 46 from.40 to 60

It is important to note that industrial oils, or as they are also called “spindle” oils, such as A20, A30 and so on are not suitable because they do not contain the necessary additives and have high hydroscopicity.

Why is it impossible to refuse to change the oil?

If repairs to the hydraulic system are needed, it is likely that the oil change was not done correctly or at the wrong time. Need to change when fluid properties have changed from the oil’s original properties. But since oil is not cheap, many tend to postpone this operation and use special equipment for years without proper maintenance. Also, drivers can’t always tell by eye if the chemical composition is deteriorating. There is a recommendation to replace every 8-9 months. But oil degradation is affected by a number of factors that the average person, who is not an employee of the service station, may not consider.

The exact number of hours the machine has been in operation and the weather conditions must be taken into account to determine if replacement is necessary. If the procedure is abandoned. Used oil can cause damage to an entire machine. It is possible that when lifting a load or removing soil with a bucket, the boom will unintentionally start to sink or jam. As a result, the risk of reduced productivity will increase, as well as the risk of injury. Even if the mechanism does not break down, the machine will malfunction and the speed and accuracy of your operation will be dramatically reduced.

Order repair and maintenance of hydraulics in Bataisk, Rostov-on-Don and other cities in the region can be in our firm. Qualified specialists will eliminate any problems and replace parts if necessary. Leading companies trust us with their equipment and are satisfied with our work. We repair within the shortest possible time, allowing customers to get their vehicles back into operation quickly, avoiding long-term downtime.

Hydraulic jack design

The design of hydraulic jacks contains liquid. They can be by device:

A distinction is made between the hitch-type, pull-type, two-level, bottle-type, and diamond-shaped hydraulic jacks.

The design of any jack consists of the following parts:

  • housing. it is a cylinder in which oil is poured;
  • lever;
  • piston or plunger. is inserted into the housing and is the main working element;
  • drive handle;
  • discharge and suction valves;
  • pressure pump.

Operating principle of a hydraulic jack

The principle of communicating vessels is used in the design. Force is applied to the actuator handle (electric motor or manual). A lever is used to apply force to the discharge pump. Oil gets to the bottom of the cylinder when the lever is pulled or the electric motor is started. The piston rises. Pressure relief valve, which consists of a discharge valve and a suction valve, keeps oil pressure at a constant operating level. The suction valve is on the inlet of the tank and does not let the oil back in when the piston is lowered. The discharge valve is installed at the cylinder inlet and prevents oil from escaping during piston ascent.

properly, hydraulic, jack

To relieve pressure and lower the load, the valve must be opened with a special screw.

What is the difference between hydraulic jacks and other types of lifting equipment?

  • They work smoothly and quietly because the working fluid is not compressed;
  • very stable;
  • the design is rigid and sturdy;
  • small dimensions;
  • clear braking;
  • low force and high efficiency (up to 80%);
  • precise stopping;
  • high load capacity.

the hydraulic mechanism can work with objects set very low, lifting them from the floor. This is a big advantage over other types of lifting devices.

  • low speed of operation;
  • low lifting height;
  • Uncomfortable to transport (must be positioned strictly vertically to avoid oil leakage);
  • load lowering height is impossible to adjust.

In the event of a breakdown, repairs are more complicated and costly than their mechanical counterparts. The hydraulic lifting device works with loads weighing 2 to 200 tons.

Special purpose devices are capable of lifting very bulky loads to great heights, locking and holding.

The single rod hydraulic bottle jack is very easy to use, so its variations are most widely used.

a wheeled pallet truck has a low fit, mounted on wheels. The levers for lifting the load protrude from the housing. Usually this equipment has a driving handle big enough to reduce the applied forces. The mechanism of this type can only work on a solid and smooth base.

A jack can be operated for a long time only if the rules of usage are precisely followed. One of the prerequisites. timely oiling, control over its level and cleanliness.