A jack stand helps in heavy-duty vehicle maintenance if technicians must lift the vehicle for prolonged periods. It provides technicians with support and safety when lifting heavy vehicles so that they can focus on their tasks. Here are some of the ways to use jack stands to maintain and repair heavy-duty vehicles:
Tire Changes
Punctures from sharp items or damage to the valve stem are some of the issues common in semi-tractor tires. When this happens, you must lift the semi off the ground to change the faulty tire. During this process, jack stands help the car maintain the right level of support. Lifting the entire semi-t͏ractor and using multiple stands lets you work on multiple flat tires simultaneously.
Underside Inspection
Your tractor needs regular checks for gravel scratches, accumulated debris, or indications of technical breakdown in the vehicle’s undercarriage. Gravel degrades the bottom components and causes structural issues. Technicians can work under the semi-tractor to look for damage, and clear out the debris by securing it with jack stands at key places on the frame. With this setup, the vehicle stays stable during the whole inspection process. This way, technicians find and quickly fix any problems without having to worry about the vehicle rolling off or drifting.
Suspension and Brakes ͏Repair
Over time, the brake fluid or suspension parts get dirty or degrade. To get to the brake parts, your technician might have to take off the wheels, which means the car needs to be well-positioned. To fix the suspension, the mechanic has to lift the semi off the ground and take the weight off of the suspension parts. A jack stand helps keep the semi-tractor off the ground and supports it during this process.
Oil Draining
Contaminated oil causes engine problems in your vehicle, reducing its efficiency. To work on the oil pan of a semi-truck, you have to raise the ͏vehicle. The raised vehicle makes it easy for the technician to get to the ͏oil pan and remove the drain plug. The professionals can put in new oil ͏and replace the drain plug without worrying that the tractor will move.
Undercarriage Cover Installation
An undercarriage cover fits on the bottom of a semi to shield it from stones, sharp objects, and abrasive materials. For this task, the mechanic must lift the ͏tractor so that the undercarriage cover has enough room to fit. The stability offered by the jack stands keep the tractor stable as the technician secures the cover properly.
Drive Shaft Repair and Replacement
Drive shafts wear out and exhibit problems such as vibration, unusual sound, or even complete failure. Replacing a damaged drive shaft helps the vehicle operate more smoothly and safely. A jack stand reduces the possibility of movement or injury when replacing the part.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel misalignment causes tires to wear faster, spend more fuel, and handle poorly. Your technician must lift the tractor to the right height to access the suspension and steering system for a wheel alignment. ͏They then use a jack stand to hold the car in place and repair any misaligned parts.
Engine Replacement
Vibrations͏, stalling, and high fuel consumption indicate severe problems with the engine. You must change the engine if it fails, has excessive wear and tear, or has performance problems. Your technician must lift the front of the semi to access the engine and components such as the fuel lines, wiring harness, and exhaust system.
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Choose the Right Jack Stands for Your Heavy-Duty Vehicle
When choosing jack stands, find out the load rating to verify that it supports the weight of your vehicle. Look for a jack stand made of strong materials like steel or cast iron. A jack with an adjustable height also suits different lifting requirements and one with a large base helps prevent toppling or shifting. Consult an expert who deals with hydraulic lifts and jack stand͏ equipment for heavy-duty vehicles today.
