Transmission Jacks are an essential tool for any garage performing engine, transmission, steering and gearbox work on cars, vans or commercial vehicles. And Concept Garage Equipment sell a lot of them, so we know how essential they are, how to get the best use from them, and what features you should look for when buying one.
No matter your level of experience, understanding how transmission jacks work, and their benefits can save you time, money, and frustration when tackling those profitable engine & gearbox jobs, that would be practically impossible to do without this vital tool.
What is a Transmission Jack (or Gearbox Jack)?
A transmission jack (also known as a gearbox jack or car transmission jack) is a specialised hydraulic lifting device designed to safely support and manoeuvre transmissions during removal and installation. It takes the weight off your back – literally – by providing a stable platform for the transmission, making the entire process easier and more efficient.
What Does a Hydraulic Transmission Jack Do?
Hydraulic transmission jacks use a foot pump or hand lever to operate a hydraulic cylinder. This cylinder raises and lowers the saddle mounted on the top of the jack spindle, allowing you to precisely control the transmission’s position. Wheels or castors at the foot of the transmission jack allow the transmission or gearbox to be moved from the vehicle to work on it separately, and then return it to the vehicle once repaired, or a suitable replacement is sourced.
Do You Really Need a Transmission Jack?
Yes you do!
Transmissions are heavy, awkward components. Without a dedicated jack, attempting to remove or install one can be incredibly difficult and potentially dangerous, it can take 2 or more people to carry a car transmission, but with the right transmission jack you can potentially do this, almost single handedly!
Advantages of a Transmission Jack
Here are just a few of the reasons why a transmission jack is a worthwhile investment:
- Safety: Lifting a heavy transmission without proper support risks injury to yourself and damage to the transmission.
- Efficiency: Transmission jacks significantly reduce the time and effort involved in removing and installing transmissions.
- Precision: Transmission Jacks enable precise manoeuvring of the transmission, making both dismantling and reassembly much easier.
- Ergonomics: Transmission jacks prevent you from having to strain your back while supporting a heavy component.
- Versatility: Most jacks can handle a wide range of transmission weights and sizes.
- Cost & Profit: Since you don’t need a team of people holding, lifting and moving the transmission or gearbox, they can be busy doing something else for the bulk of the time, therefore earning your garage more money!
Where to Put a Transmission Jack
The key to best use of a transmission jack is knowing how to use it. Always consult the manual that comes with the jack that you purchase, but below is a general guide on where to put a transmission jack:
- Before Lifting: Once you’ve safely secured the vehicle, position the transmission jack directly beneath the transmission.
- Using the Transmission Jack: Transmission jacks are usually controlled by a foot pump or hand lever. Gradually pump the jack to lift the transmission being careful to constantly check the alignment as it moves upwards.
- Lifting the Jack: Adjust the jack’s saddle (the platform) to securely cradle the transmission’s sump or bell housing. Ensure the saddle is centred and stable and aligned with the transmission mounting points.
- Removing the Transmission: Once the transmission is out of the vehicle, you will usually need to lower the transmission jack slightly, and then you can use the jack’s wheels or castors to carefully it to a new location. This is where you may need help just to manoeuvre the jack & transmission, even though the jack is supporting the weight of the transmission itself.
What Kind of Fluid Goes in a Transmission Jack?
Most transmission jacks use hydraulic jack oil. The specific type of oil will depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Always refer to the user manual for your specific jack for the correct fluid type and maintenance instructions.
The transmission jacks that we sell come with a full warranty and the oil should not be changed by the owner, instead you must contact an authorised service agent, or contact Concept Garage Equipment to arrange for one to be appointed to you, to repair or replace the parts, hydraulic oil or the transmission jack itself in the unlikely event of a failure.
How High Does a Transmission Jack Go?
Transmission jack lifting heights vary depending on the model. Our product transmission jacks product category has several jacks, with each product showing the lifting height for each jack we offer. Consider the typical height range of the vehicles you service when selecting a jack.
Transmission Jack Safety Precautions:
As with any piece of garage equipment, you need to know how to use it, and use it properly, safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid injury to yourself, the vehicle you are working on, as well as ensuring safe removal and re-fitting of the transmission or gearbox that you are working on.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
- Ensure the jack is rated for the weight of the transmission you’re working with.
- Inspect the jack for damage before each use. Don’t use a jack with oil leaks or faulty components.
- Use a lift, pit, or suitable jack stands to safely support the vehicle before removing the transmission.
- Ensure the vehicle brakes are applied, and the wheels are chocked to prevent movement whilst working on it.
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a transmission jack.
- Maintain a clear working area around the jack and transmission.
- Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back strain.
Why Choose Concept Garage Equipment for Transmission Jacks?
We offer a range of high-quality transmission jacks from reputable brands to suit any garage or MOT Bay needs and budget. Our knowledgeable staff is available to help you choose the right jack for your workshop.
We also provide several simple payment options, fast free delivery and excellent after-sales support for a smooth buying experience.
For sales and service of your transmission jack, or for any Garage Equipment or MOT Bay equipment needs please call Concept Garage Equipment today on 0113 469 0572.
Transmission Jack Frequently Asked Questions
What is a transmission jack?
A transmission jack (also known as a gearbox jack or car transmission jack) is a hydraulic lifting device designed to safely support and manoeuvre transmissions or vehicle gearboxes during removal and installation. It takes the weight of the gearbox or transmission, and provides a stable platform to safely remove, transport and re-fit the transmission from.
Where should you put a transmission jack?
Adjust the jack's saddle or platform to securely cradle the transmission's sump or bell housing. Ensure the saddle is centred and stable and aligned with the transmission mounting points.
What type of oil goes in a transmission jack?
Most transmission jacks use hydraulic jack oil. The specific type of oil will depend on the manufacturer's recommendations.
Generally you may be able to bleed the oil but changing the hydraulic oil is usually a service job best left to the manufacturers or a qualified service engineer.
Always refer to the user manual for your specific jack for the correct fluid type and maintenance instructions.