How to Fill a Hydraulic Floor Jack

A hydraulic floor jack is a must-have tool for anyone who repairs vehicles on a regular basis. Portable and easy to use, a hydraulic jack will lift a car in seconds with little effort, allowing you to access the undercarriage or wheels. When a hydraulic floor jack loses its fast lifting power, the most common cause is a low hydraulic fluid level. You can fill a hydraulic floor jack in a minute and be back to work before you know it.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Hydraulic fluid
• Small funnel

Instructions

1. Locate the filler port on the hydraulic floor jack. While the location will vary by manufacturer, the filler port is generally found on the top of the jack and should be marked.

2. Remove the cap from the filler port, using an adjustable wrench to turn the cap counterclockwise.

3. Place a small funnel into the filler port and hold it steady with one hand.

4. Pour hydraulic fluid slowly into the reservoir until the fluid level reaches the bottom of the cap base.

5. Replace the filler port cap, making sure that it is tightly screwed in to avoid leakage.

Tips & Warnings

• If your floor jack needs hydraulic fluid, it is a sign that the seals are wearing and will soon need to be replaced.

• Never use another fluid, such as brake fluid, instead of hydraulic fluid.

Resources

• Source for hydraulic jacks