Intro to Jacks

Which Jack at What Capacity?

Before you choose a toe jack, you should understand how the weight of a load is divided across each jack (toe jack is also called a claw jack). First, determine how many jacks you are going to use. The most economical solution is to use one jack to lift up one end of the load at a time.

Or use 2 jacks simultaneously to lift up one end of the load. This is often more convenient because it provides more usable clearance underneath the load. To lift up all four corners of the load, simultaneously use 4 jacks.

How much load capacity does each hydraulic claw jack need for your application? Example: Assume you have a 20 ton load. Then divide the weight equally into 10 tons on each end of the load.

The weight to be lifted on each end is therefore 10 tons - or half the total load weight. So if you are planning on using one single jack, use a jack with 10 tons of lifting capacity. Or you can use two 5 ton jacks on one side (whether near the corners or in the middle), as the 10 ton weight is divided across 2 jacks.

And if you are going to lift up all 4 corners at the same time, each jack has to carry 5 tons. So use four 5 ton jacks to carry the total weight of 20 tons. If you have an oddly shaped load with an uneven weight distribution or unusual center of gravity, please call us. We will advise you which jack is suitable to use.

We carry two different types of toe jacks: The compact jack is the most versatile for most applications. For operation in confined spaces, consider the cylinder jack.

Please feel free to call us with any technical questions. 1-800-786-6112