Please check my math on Jack limits

[1930artdeco]

I just got a Weaver WA-72 floor jack rated at 2 tons. I am going to use it to jack up my 88 F150 at some point to change shocks, brakes etc.

So it is rated at 2tons (4000lbs.) and the truck weighs in at around 5000 lbs. if I lift just the back half up to swap shocks I am only lift 2500 lbs. correct? I just don’t want to get close to the 2 ton limit. Is my math correct?

Mike

 

[CGarage]

That is correct, likely less weight actually. But to be safe, use quality jack stands rated appropriately to support the vehicle in addition to the jack.

 

[1930artdeco]

Always!!!!! Good to know I can still add-more or less.

 

[drmarkr]

The center of gravity on the truck is not centered at the middle of the axles....it's more to the front (engine/etc), so you're lifting less than 2500 on just the rear. Conversely, the front will be more than 2500, but not likely to exceed 4000. You could weigh all four wheels and then calculate the center of gravity, but for what you're doing here, not necessary, IMO. If the jack won't lift the front, then borrow/buy (Garage Journal way!) a bigger jack.

 

[Beerhippie]

If it takes all your body weight on the handle to lift the truck, you've found the limit. If oil suddenly shoots out of the jack, you've exceeded it.

 

[rooster59]

I would just do 1 wheel at a time. Trans in park, parking brake on if you can, chock the wheels. Use jackstand(s).

 

[OccupantRJ]

If it takes all your body weight on the handle to lift the truck, you've found the limit. If oil suddenly shoots out of the jack, you've exceeded it.

Does that mean that the jack climaxed?