Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Proper Use and Maintenance Tips for ZMJ Mini Jacks

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July 12 2024
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Proper Use and Maintenance Tips for ZMJ Mini Jacks

When it comes to the ZMJ Series Mini Jack, a highly reliable and versatile piece of equipment, common misuse can lead to significant issues that undermine its performance and longevity. Despite its industrial design and user-friendly features, improper handling and incorrect application are frequent problems encountered by users. This article aims to highlight the typical errors made and provide guidance on how to avoid them.

 

Here are some of the most common misuse of the mini jacks:

 

Applying too much weight to the mini jack
  • Be aware of the maximum weight load that the jack will be able to handle – 5 TON
  • Going over the weight limit would severely damage the inner workings of the jack
    Overextending the jack
    • Yellow line indicating extension limit; DO NOT go past it
    • Overextending will cause ram scratches which will damage the seals

     

    So how do we maintain the mini jacks for a longer shelf-life? 

     

    1. Occasionally apply lubrication onto the seals, handle socket pivot point, extension screw and release screw thread 
    2. Add or replace hydraulic jack oil (we recommend AW32); ONLY USE HYDRAULIC OIL - motor oil or other types of oil may degrade the system.
    3. Storing jack in a proper environment: keep ram and extension screw at lowest point and store units indoors

     

    Take a look at our troubleshooting table where you will find various solution to some of the common problem that you might be facing with your mini jack: 

    Problem Cause Solution
    Erratic Action

    1) Air in the system.

    2) Viscosity of oil too high.

    3) Internal leakage in cylinder.

    4) Cylinder sticking or binding.

    1) With jack sitting in its base and ram retracted, bleed air by opening release valve. Pump for 10 seconds.

    2) Change to lower viscosity oil.

    3) Replace worn seals. Check for excessive contamination or wear.

    4) Check for dirt, gummy deposits, or leaks. Check for misalignment, worn parts or defective seals.
    Jack Does Not Advance

    1) Release valve is open.

    2) Low/No oil in reservoir.

    3) Air-locked system.

    4) Load exceeds system's capacity.

    5) Improper horizontal position.

    1) Close valve clockwise.

    2) Fill with oil and bleed system.

    3) Bleed the system.

    4) Use correct equipment.

    5) Operates horizontal ONLY when flat of casting is downward.
    Jack Only Extents Partially

    1) Reservoir is low on oil.

    2) Piston rod is binding.

    1) Fill reservoir with oil.

    2) Check for dirt, gummy deposits, or leaks. Check for misalignment, worn parts, or defective seals.
    Jack Advances Slowly

    1) Pump not working correctly.

    2) Leaking seals.

    1) Rework pump.

    2) Replace seals.
    Jack Advances But Doesn't Hold Pressure

    1) Cylinder seals are leaking.

    2) Pump check valves are not working correctly.

    3) Overload valve leaking or not adjusted correctly.

    1) Replace seals

    2) Clean/replace check valve.

    3) Replace/adjust overload valve
    Jack Leaks Oil

    1) Worn or damaged seals.

    1) Replace seals.
    Jack Will Not Retract Or Retracts Slowly

    1) Release valve is closed.

    2) Cylinder damaged internally.

    3) Reservoir too full.

    1) Open release valve.

    2) Send to authorized service center.

    3) Drain oil to correct level.

    If the above procedures do not correct the problem, contact your nearest ZINKO service facility. When submitting any jack or equipment to be repaired, be sure to state the nature of the problem and indicate whether an estimate of the repair cost is needed.



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