What Kind of Oil Goes in a Bottle Jack?
by Caroline RomeroThe bottle jack became popular in the early 20th Century with the growth of the automobile industry. The tool soon became useful in many other areas, including the printing, construction and medical fields.
Features
A bottle jack is made of steel and can vary in weight according to size. The smallest jack is a few pounds, while the 100 ton jack weighs greater than 200 pounds. In order to maintain the seals as long as possible, you should use jack stands and keep the machine away from paint thinners, acids, heat, alcohol and pet urine.
Hydraulic Oil
A bottle jack requires hydraulic oil. This type of oil is a liquid lubricant used to send power throughout hydraulic systems. Hydraulic oil provides good lubrication, protects from rust and oxidation and has low foaming characteristics.
Warning
Do not use brake fluid in a bottle jack. Brake fluid contains alcohol, which is harmful to the seals in the machine. The warranty that comes with a jack usually specifies the type of fluid to be used. You may void the warranty if you use another type of fluid in the machine.
References
Writer Bio
Caroline Romero began writing professionally in 1991 for the Niagara College Newspaper, "Niagara News." Her work has been published in Brock University's "Surgite" magazine. She holds a Journalism-Print diploma from Niagara College, Welland and is working on a Bachelor of History degree at Brock University.
