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Whats the difference between a 20 ton house jack and a 20 ton botlle jack.
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greg29
Hi, I move machinery as part of my normal work.
I avoid hydraulic bottle jacks for the following two reasons.
It is possible for them to fail without warning. If a seal goes, the load comes down.
They are difficult to control precisely, especially when lowering.
I use Simplex brand MECHANICAL jacks. Technically the style I use are called "toe jacks" or "railroad jacks"
But, everyone calls them house jacks anyways.
They are lever operated and have a positive latching ratchet. Each time you operate the handle the load will raise or lower the same precise amount (about 1/4 inch for the 5 ton size)I've never seen one of these jacks fail and I've got three of them. Do be careful of stability though, as with any other jack.
I have seen these jacks for rent at Sunbelt rentals, and several local companies, so I know they're out there. A great feature of these jacks is that they have two lifting pads, one at the top of the jack, and a "toe" that comes out the front. The toe on a 5 ton will actually fit into less than a two inch gap, though this feature probably isn't too important on your lally column problem.
Scott