How to Bleed a Bottle Jack

It’s frustrating when you have to lift something with your bottle jack and realize it’s not working or behaving erratically. Or it is completely stuck and won’t budge. When a bottle jack is having issues, it’s either due to low oil levels or air in the system. Fortunately, this is quite a simple issue to fix with the help of this post and a few tools in your shed.

Since a bottle jack uses a hydraulic based mechanism, it is prone to getting air into its system, which reduces its efficiency. The solution is bleeding and refilling your hydraulic fluid. Bleeding releases the trapped air by running the hydraulic fluid through the system to push the air out of the bottle jack. To maintain its maximum lifting performance, you will need to bleed it from time to time especially if you notice a drop in lifting power. This article will help you learn how to bleed a bottle jack and simple maintenance procedures.

Tools

• Flathead screwdriver
• Hydraulic fluid

Directions

• If you’re bleeding a new bottle jack, read the instruction manual to familiarize yourself with the parts of your bottle jack model.
• Locate the bleed valve, also called a release valve, next to the pump socket on the bottom of the jack. Open this valve by turning it anticlockwise until the ram lowers to the lowest position.
• Locate the oil fill plug in the middle on the side of the jack and use a flat-head screwdriver to remove the oil fill plug.
• Put the pumping handle into the handle socket and pump it rapidly for about 10-20 rounds. You can confirm with the user manual how many times you should pump your jacket model, but 10-20 rounds is enough. It pumps the oil through the jack’s system from the oil reservoir to the high-pressure system and back to the reservoir. The oil goes through the bleed valve, pushes the trapped air from the system to the top of the reservoir, and goes out through the oil fill plug hole.
• Check the oil level in the jack and refill the hydraulic oil if necessary until the oil the slightly below the oil filler plug hole. Then place the rubber oil plug back.
• Close the release valve.
• Test the jack by pumping it to its maximum and check to see if it’s working correctly.
• Test it again with a load, and it still isn’t working, repeat the steps until all the air comes out.

How to fill a hydraulic bottle jack

The bottle jack uses hydraulic oil to grease the internal systems that allow you to lift heavy objects. You will need to fill your bottle jack when it’s new as they do not come with any oil inside. You will also need to refill your oil regularly. The hydraulic oil helps to:

• It prevents rust from corroding the jack components.
• It lubricates the moving parts of the hydraulic system.
• It prevents oxidation issues that will tamper with performance.

To understand the importance of oiling your bottle jack, you have to know how it works first. When you pull the handle of an oiled bottle jack, the oil moves from the reservoir to a piston; when you push the handle, the piston forces the oil to a larger piston. The more you pump, the more oil goes into the larger piston and increases the cylinder’s pressure. The piston uses this pressure to lift heavy objects. To lower the jack, use the release valve to put back the oil in the reservoir slowly.

 As explained above, the jack uses the oil as a driving force to lift heavy objects. If the oil is low, there will not be enough pressure for the jack to lift things, resulting in slipping when in use.

 Materials

• Flathead screwdriver
• Hydraulic jack fluid
• Old newspapers or paper towels
• Rag
• Plastic squeeze bottle with a pointy nozzle

Directions

• Lay some rags or newspapers on a flat surface and place your bottle jack in an upright position. The rags will catch the spillage.
• Near the top of the jack, you will find the rubber oil filler plug. Open it slowly using a flat-head screwdriver.
• Take the recommended hydraulic bottle jack fluid for your jack and pour it into a squeeze bottle with a pointy nozzle. This step is not necessary if the hydraulic fluid comes in a bottle with a pointed nozzle.
• Place the nozzle of the squeeze bottle into the filler hole and squeeze to pour in the fluid. Do not overfill the reservoir. We recommend stopping about a quarter inches from the top of the filler hole.
• Once it’s filled, close the filler hole with the rubber filler plug. Make sure it fits in snug and secure.
• Wipe the jack’s exterior with a rag because this oil can cause the load to slip when using it.

How to Store a Bottle Jack

Though a simple tool, a bottle jack requires sufficient maintenance to keep working correctly. Proper storage is one of the ways to ensure it is always efficient. Here are some storage tips when it comes to a bottle jack:

• When putting your jack in storage, make sure the pump and piston have retracted back completely to avoid putting too much strain on the system when not in use. It also prevents the ram from catching dust, which will affect its performance when in use.
• Always place your bottle jack upright on its base and never on its side to avoid leaking.
• Before putting the jack in storage, you must clean the jack to clean off any oil spilled during use to avoid attracting dust.
• Store the bottle jack in a place free from dust and moisture, which can damage its metal components. Then use a clean rug to cover it.

 Will a Bottle Jack Work Sideways?

There are instances when you need to place your bottle jack horizontally to lift an object. You can use a bottle jack sideways, but the pump must be lower than the piston to prevent the hydraulic fluid from going back to the reservoir and losing pressure. Here is how to successfully use a bottle jack sideways:

• Ensure your hydraulic fluid is enough; otherwise, it won’t work, and then refill if necessary.
• Turn the release valve at the bottom side of the jack anticlockwise with the notched end of the handle and lower the piston fully.
• When the piston gets to the bottom, turn the valve clockwise.
• Place the bottom jack horizontally with the reservoir on the bottom side. The pump socket is where you insert the handle, while the reservoir is the cylinder that holds the piston.
• Hold the jack in place with one hand and pump using the other. Move the handle side to side to pump until the jack’s base and the piston are against the object you’re handling.

Can you use a bottle jack underwater?

Yes, you can use a bottle jack underwater since the hydraulics have a sealed system. However, it would be best if you did not use it underwater repeatedly or for too long. Though a sealed unit, water can seep into the jack and contaminate the hydraulic oil.

If you’re using it in a moving water body, it can be dangerous as it’s not a steady tool underwater. Additionally, most bottle jacks are of iron material, which is prone to rusting if the water manages to corrode past the anti-rust paint.

Avoid using a bottle jack underwater; alternatively, you can get a jack designed with the stability to work underwater.

 Is Jack Oil Same as Hydraulic Oil?

All hydraulic systems, including a jack, use hydraulic fluid for power, heat transfer, sealing, and lubrication. Therefore, a jack oil is a type of hydraulic oil; the difference comes in the oil properties. Different fluid properties work for different hydraulic systems. So you must be careful when choosing a hydraulic oil for your jack.

For a hydraulic fluid to be suitable for a jack, it must have the following properties:

• Viscosity: The hydraulic jack’s viscosity( the fluid’s thickness) should be within the range of 22cSt to 32cSt at 40°C for the hydraulic system’s smooth movement. If the viscosity increases, it will cause difficulty in lifting, and if it reduces, lubrication would decrease, and friction will damage the internal parts. We measure viscosity in Centistokes (cSt).
• Non-corrosive: Most jacks are constructed with metals such as steel and iron, which are prone to corrosion. The hydraulic jack oil used in a jack needs to be compatible with the metals.
• Thermal stability: Since we use jacks in various temperatures, jack oil needs to be stable in extreme cold or hot temperatures. It should also adapt to the changes in temperature without changing the oil properties or reducing the jack’s efficiency.
• Filterability: Contaminated jack oil will block the jack system’s filters and become difficult to lift objects. Therefore, a hydraulic jack oil needs to be clean and also filterable for efficient performance.

Other additive properties of a hydraulic jack oil include:

• Anti-oxidant: It allows you to use the oil for a long time without oxidating. Oxidation can change other properties of the oil.
• Anti-wear: It increases the longevity of the hydraulic components
• Hydrolytic stability: It should be able to withstand chemical reactions with water without becoming inefficient. Allows you to use your jack in the rain.
• Fire-resistant: It should not be flammable.
• Cold flow: Can operate in freezing temperatures.

Can You Use Motor Oil in a Bottle Jack?

You should not use motor oil in a bottle jack. Motor oil lacks the viscosity of a hydraulic jack oil. Some motor oils also contain alcohol, which can corrode the seals in a hydraulic system. Since a hydraulic jack relies on jack oil for power, it has to have non-compressible, low volatility, fast air release, and low foaming properties. A motor oil lacks all these properties.

Check this too: Best Floor Jack for Trucks

You can use ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) as an alternative to hydraulic jack fluid, depending on its viscosity. However, your jack may develop problems over time or not perform to its maximum. ATFs are also prone to foaming under very high pressures, and some may affect the seals in your jack. Some brands’ cylinders are only compatible with specific hydraulic jack fluid, so using ATFs may prevent the jack from working efficiently. It is best to be safe and use a hydraulic jack fluid. Most jack manufacturers even recommend their jack fluids that are compatible with their tools.

We recommend using ISO 150 and 8W32 Hydraulic jack oil for your jack. They have the properties discussed above, therefore, safe to use with most hydraulic jack brands.

Best Hydraulic Jack Oil

For a smooth and efficient operation of the jack, you need a high performing hydraulic jack oil. Before buying a hydraulic jack oil, refer to the product’s features and ingredients. Confirm with the user manual of your jack on the most suitable jack fluid. Below we have compiled the best hydraulic jack oils you can consider:

Sta-Lube Hydraulic & Jack Oil, 32 Fl Oz (SL2552)

Sta-Lube Hydraulic & Jack Oil is a high-quality paraffin base oil that is anti-rust, anti-wear, anti-oxidation, and anti-foam. It also swells the seals and prevents leakages.

Features

• SAE viscosity grade: 10W.
• For hydraulic systems and fluid drive units
• Amber viscous liquid
• Plastic safe
• Slow evaporation rate
• Working temperature: -17.8°C to 65.6°C

Pros

• Highly reliable in extreme temperatures
• It does not cause rust.
• It protects the jack’s material.
• Anti-oxidation
• Ant-foam

Cons

• It is not suitable for hydraulic breaks.
• Requires you to get a squeeze bottle for application.

 Gunk Liquid Wrench M3332 Hydraulic Jack Oil – 32 oz

This hydraulic jack oil has an excellent reputation with all hydraulic jacks, snowplows, and refillable shock absorbers. It also intermixes with all other standard hydraulic jack oils. It is relatively lightweight and stable in extremely cold or hot temperatures. Its nozzle cap allows you to refill your jack fluid without any spillage easily.

Features

• SAE viscosity grade: 10W.
• ISO rating is 22-32.
• Working temperature: -30°C to 140°C
• It works with hydraulic jacks, snowplows, and refillable shock absorbers.
• The bottle has an easy-to-pour spout.

Pros

• No-spill
• Suitable with all hydraulic jacks
• Oxidation & rust inhibitors
• Anti-foam agents

Cons

• It has detergent additives, so it can corrode the jack when used in water.

Troubleshooting Guide for a hydraulic bottle gun

No matter the type of jack you use, it will develop issues now and again, especially older jacks that have been operational for a while. Regular maintenance and repairs of your hydraulic bottle gun will lessen some of these issues. Procrastinating repairs and maintenance will reduce the jack’s efficiency or cause permanent damage to the jack.  We have addressed some of the common problems that arise when using a bottle jack and how you can fix them.

Why won’t my bottle jack go down?

When the ram has issues extending completely or not retracting, the cause is usually a lack of hydraulic fluid. If it refuses to go down completely, try to add more jack fluid.

• Ensure the release valve screw is open or turn it anticlockwise to open it.
• Take a clean rug and remove any dust particles from the ram’s surface.
• Check the fluid levels and refill.
• And lubricate the exposed part of the ram.
• Give it time to settle into the crevice, then try pushing it down again.
• When it goes down, try to bleed it using the instructions explained in the article to keep it from getting stuck again.

If the ram still refuses to retract, the ram could be damaged and need an expert’s attention.

Bottle jack won’t lift

Low hydraulic fluid and air trapped in the jack can cause your ram not to lift. First, you need to bleed the jack. With the ram on the bottom, open the release valve and pump the handle a few times to remove the trapped air. Then, refill the reservoir.

The bottle jack won’t bleed

If the jack keeps packing air even after bleeding, worn out or damaged seals would be the reason.

You need to replace the seals and refill the hydraulic fluid.

Check this too: How to Repair a Floor Jack that Won’t Hold Pressure

Fixing a bottle jack that is leaking at the release valve

If a seal is damaged, you will have to dismantle the jack, replace the damaged sealed then rebuild. Keep in mind that sometimes a rebuild kit can cost more than a new bottle jack. If replacing the seal is cheaper, get the seal kit that matches your bottle jack’s make and model and follow the steps below.

 Things You’ll Need

• Pliers
• Drip pan
• Hydraulic fluid
• Replacement kit
• Vice
• Pencil magnet
• Pipe wrench

 Instructions

• Before dismantling the jack, read the user manual to know the parts of your jack. Also, note the order in which the parts come out, as you will reverse the order to rebuild it.
• Remove the oil reservoir plug and drain the oil into a clean pan.
• Remove the bolts holding the handle in place, remove the handle, and then take out the pumping piston attached to the handle. You can put the jack in a vice to hold it in place while removing the parts.
• Unscrew the release valve completely. Underneath the valve, you will seal a ball or pin which regular flow. Pull out the ball or pin using a pencil magnet.
• Unscrew the overload valve. Removing the screw carefully, you will see a ball and two springs inside and place them aside for the rebuild.
• Remove the piston by unscrewing the tank nut on top of the canister using a pipe wrench. The canister will come loose together with its parts. Make a note of which piece goes inside which.
• Remove the seal by picking it out carefully not to scratch the internal surface.
• Dip the new seal and O-ring in hydraulic fluid and replace them.
• Put the piston components back inside each other in reverse order, put back the piston inside the canister, and then tighten the tank nut.
• Replace the balls and springs in reserve order. Start with the smallest ball, followed by the shorter spring then, the larger ball and the larger spring.
• Put back the ball or pin in the release valve and replace the bolt on top.
• Refill the hydraulic fluid and bleed the air out of the system. Test the jack by pumping it to its full height without a load, lower it back down, then try lifting your vehicle and lowering it.
• Inspect the jack for any leakages. If there is a leakage then, there may be a seal installed incorrectly.

Alternatively, you can get your seals replaces by an expert if you do not mind the extra labor cost.

Conclusion

Regularly bleeding your bottle jack will ensure you can attend to a vehicle emergency that requires a bottle jack. Different models can be slightly different, so remember to always refer to your manual before bleeding your jack. Fortunately, you have this post to guide you on all you need to know about bleeding and proper maintenance of your hydraulic bottle jack for a safer, reliable performance from it.