Whether you live in a cold-weather or warm-weather area, there are certain items that every driver should have in their emergency car kit. These include road flares that warn other drivers of your breakdown and jumper cables for recharging your battery.
It would help to have a reliable tire jack to change your flat tire. Read on to learn more about what to look for in a good car jack.
Jack Weight
Having a car emergency kit in your vehicle is one of the best ways to keep yourself prepared for any bumps in the road that may come up. This includes a spare tire, tools, and a reliable tire jack.
There are many kinds of jacks on the market, so finding one that can lift your car without damaging it is essential. The jack you choose should be rated for the weight of your vehicle.
Before lifting your car, ensure the engine is off and the parking brake is engaged. It’s also a good idea to put something in front of the tire you will be jacking up (e.g., a brick or piece of wood) to ensure the car doesn’t roll off the tire jack.
It is also essential to keep a flashlight and flares in your emergency kit to help other drivers see you. Changing a tire on a busy highway or freeway can be dangerous, so it is essential to be visible to other motorists.
Jack Height
A jack should have a maximum lifting height appropriate for your vehicle. Different cars require different jack heights for a safe and successful tire change.
When changing tires, it’s best to do so on a level, solid surface, not on the road or highway, where the jack could cause your car to roll and endanger your life and that of other drivers. Before you jack up your car, block off one of the tires on the side of the vehicle you’re working on, then locate the jacking points (check your owner’s manual for the exact locations) and line up the jack.
Once the jack is in place, use the handle to raise the car until it’s about 3-6 inches off the ground. Then, lower it slowly, ensuring the jack is secure and ready to support your vehicle. If you have a hydraulic jack, open the relief valve before you drop it.
Jack Placement
A reliable tire jack is a vital part of any roadside emergency kit. In addition to the jack, include a tire repair kit with plugs and sealant, jumper cables, and a spare tire. Adding a bag of ice melt or snow traction spray may also be wise, depending on the season.
Before you lift your car, you must block the tires with something solid (wheel chocks, bricks, wood wedges, etc.). This helps ensure that the vehicle does not roll away while you’re changing the tire or performing any other car repairs. Keeping a bottle of engine oil in your trunk is also good if your vehicle needs some on-the-spot lubrication.
Lastly, remember always to park your car in a safe place and to turn on your hazard lights. This will help prevent other drivers from becoming distracted by your parked car and potentially hitting it or running over you while changing the tire.
Jack Safety
Keeping a car emergency kit in your vehicle is always a good idea. This can help you overcome many roadside problems that may occur while driving. This could include anything from a flat tire to an overheated engine. A car emergency kit can also have jumper cables, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a toolkit, non-perishable food and water, road flares, and more.
A reliable tire jack is essential for roadside emergencies. Knowing how to use a jack safely is vital to avoid accidents while working under the vehicle. You should never jack up a car on soft or uneven ground. You should also ensure that the vehicle is in park and that you have blocked a tire to prevent it from rolling away while changing the tire. You can also stop the tire by putting a piece of wood or something similar under it.
