

In 1910, the first Weaver Auto-Twin Jack was produced for the burgeoning auto-repairs shops exploding across the country. Both the cast-iron and tripod leg carjacks are highly prized by collectors. After a bit, the system was refined using smaller cogs and a tripod or dual-legged stand to provide stability. A lever would be pumped up and down, engaging the internal gears to move the lift into position. Still, it would be almost 50 years before the principles were applied to the automotive industry.Įarly Model T jacks were single lever lift units were made of cast iron and quite heavy. As the construction of bridges, railroads, and buildings saw the need to lift heavier loads, hydraulic jacks became a part of that development. In 1851, Richard Dudgeon was credited with the first invention of the hydraulic lift. Every day, these jacks helped settlers explore the vast American landscape, searching for better futures. There is no question that they were instrumental in helping foster the pioneering spirit by keeping wagons moving. These simple jacks came in various forms (some applied a crank method with a horned-styled lift base, and others used a basic fulcrum approach with groove slots). Early wagon jacks were used on the farm and industry to lift a wagon high enough to grease or change the wheels. Many companies used old-fashioned lifting screws to enhance workers’ production, increase manufacturing, and reduce employee turnover due to injuries.Īs the world began to expand in the mid-18th century, the use of mobile wagon jacks became more and more prevalent. His work led to the development of jacks and pulley systems embraced by the industrial revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the earliest versions of a screw jack was a part of Leonardo Da Vinci’s work, who designed the jack as a means of lifting heavy loads.
Classic car jack stands how to#
When did the first car jack first appear, and who developed it? How have car jacks evolved over the years? How can you make a competent antique car jack identification when browsing a swap meet? Let’s explore the history of antique car jacks and help you learn how to spot the rare one when you find it.Īs mentioned, the use of jacks as a mechanical lifting device has roots centuries before the invention of the automobile.
Classic car jack stands portable#
Automobile manufacturers knew they needed to include a portable car jack that could handle the weight and be simple enough to use. When the horseless carriage emerged on the road, flat tires were a daily occurrence.

Many blacksmiths provided wheel repair services as a means of making a living. Later years saw the introduction of scissor-jacks and hydraulic units, making lifting the vehicle for repairs easier.Įven before the development of automobiles, users needed a way to lift their covered wagons or farm equipment to change broken wheels. Early models used screw jacks or lift jacks, which were used for covered wagons or early farm equipment. Ever wondered how the car jack came to be?Ĭar jacks have been an integral part of the automobile since its inception. Many classic car collectors enjoy finding old accessories from years gone by, from signs to antique car jacks.
