If you love traveling, then you already know about hi-lift jacks and how useful they can be.
Having one in your vehicle can really save you from troublesome situations, and so getting one is essential.
However, a part of getting the right product is also getting the correct size. And so you should be asking yourself as to “what size hi-lift jack should I get?”
While the question is quite simple, the answer might as well be complicated, because you need to gather some information before deciding which size you really need.
That is why, in this article, we will be providing you with all the details that you need to determine the correct size of a hi-lift jack. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What Is a Hi-Lift Jack Used for?
Hi-lift jacks are known as versatile and handy tools that can be really useful from time to time.
But before you decide to get one, you should be aware of all how you can use it.
For instance, the primary task of a hi-lift jack is to lift a vehicle. But apart from that, you can also use the tool as a winch.
Furthermore, it can be used as a spreader and a clamper as well when required, so you can see that it can accomplish a variety of tasks.
It’s difficult to tell as to what kind of damage your vehicle will deal with on the trail, so keeping a hi-lift jack may benefit you in a lot of ways.
What Size Hi-Lift Jack Should I Get?
To get the best out of a hi-lift jack, you need to make sure that you are getting the correct size.
And yes, when it comes to its size, you should consider both its length and weight capacity.
We have discussed both of these factors below, so you don’t get confused about anything!
Weight Capacity
First of all, all types of hi-lift jacks come with a shear bolt that breaks at 7000 pounds, so no matter which stud you get, that will be their maximum capacity.
On the other hand, maximum permitted weight up to a length of 48 inches is about 4660 pounds for all types of hi lifts, while the maximum permitted weight up to a height of 60 inches is about 2660 pounds.
However, if you are going to use the tool for winching, then their weight capacities will vary.
For instance, the maximum winching weight of all types of studs is 5000 pounds.
But the maximum clamping force of all types of the hi-lift jacks varies greatly.
For instance, you will see that some of them offer a force of 750 pounds, whereas others can go as high as 4660 pounds.
So, it would be best if you determined this factor according to your needs.
Length
Hi-lift jacks are available at four different lengths – 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch, and 60-inch.
While most people go for jacks that are about 48 inches long, it really depends on a lot of factors as to which length you should go for.
If you are an offroader, then surely you should go for a 60-inch or a 48-inch long stud.
However, for UTVs and ATVs, it’s safe to choose studs that are 36-inch and 42-inch long.
In case you are having trouble choosing between a 60-inch and a 48-inch jack, remember that 60-inch studs are great if you travel a lot and have a rig.
However, 48-inch ones are more suitable if your vehicle isn’t that large, and if you want a more versatile option.
Other Factors to Consider
Before you get yourself a tool, there are undoubtedly some factors that you should consider—for instance, the material it is made of, its longevity, its cost, etc.
Material
You will find studs that are made of all-cast or are made of a combination of cast and steel.
Some can even contain parts of aluminum. While all-cast jacks are standard, they can be costly, so their steel and cast counterparts are an excellent option.
The ones made of aluminum are also very strong, and you might even find them at a cheaper rate.
So, it ultimately depends on your priority when it comes to the material you should go for.
Cost
As for the price, you will find hi-lift jacks at a variety of price ranges, starting from affordable ranges to very high-end ones.For instance, you can find a jack at 30-50 dollars, and even at 80-100 dollars.
You can make up a budget according to the amount you’d like to invest, and still get a great product at hand if you look properly.
Final Words
Even after setting one’s eyes on a hi-lift jack, buyers often get confused and ask themselves, ‘what size hi-lift jack should I get?’
That is why it is entirely reasonable if you have been asking yourself the same question as well.
But we hope this article has helped you reach a conclusion, as getting the right size is just as crucial as getting the correct hi-lift jack for your vehicle.
So, get the right one and travel safe!