Workshop Equipment

What is a trolley jack?

It is a product used to lift a vehicle in minutes. It consists of a hydraulic jack with wheels, boasting a handle that works as a pump to increase the lifting height.

What is a trolley jack used for?

Its only purpose is to lift vehicles, nothing less and nothing more.

How does a trolley jack work?

When lifting the handle, the pump cylinder gets filled with oil. Once you lower the handle the oil gets pressurized. Pressurized oil is what lifts up the saddle (platform) that connects with the vehicle. The more you lift the handle, the higher the jack will lift.

What advantages does a trolley jack have?

Lifts vehicles up to several tons.

Easy to use, store and install

Long reach trolley jack delivers excellent reach for big vehicles.

Do trolley jacks have any disadvantages?

Setting up a trolley jack can be difficult due to the wheels

The wheels make it a bit unsafe and unstable on uneven ground

Are trolley jacks safe?

Yes, they are safe, if you use them correctly. A trolley jack should be used for no longer than necessary and should not be used for extended periods of time. Always use a set of trestles.

Explain a low-profile jack?

A low-profile jack is used on lowered vehicles. it is easy at getting under vehicles with a low-lying chassis. Ideally used with sports cars and racing cars.

What is a bottle jack?

A bottle jack is a jack which resembles a bottle in shape, having a cylindrical body and a neck. Within is a vertical lifting ram with a support pad of some kind fixed to the top.

What can I use a bottle jack for?

Bottle jacks are also used for lifting, spreading, bending, pushing, pressing, or straightening requirements. The base and cylinders of bottle jacks are electrically welded for strength, and all models are capable of working in upright, angled, or horizontal positions. It is important to note, however, that the pump of the jack when used in the horizontal position must still remain upright. A bottle jack should be used for no longer than necessary and should not be used for extended periods of time. Always use a set of trestles.

Can I lift a vehicle using a bottle jack?

Yes, always lift a vehicle on a level and paved surface when using a bottle jack. Always make sure the vehicle is in gear or park, and the parking brake is applied when using a bottle jack. If available, place a tyre wedge on the opposite axle of the one you’re lifting. Bottle jacks stay stationary and can create potential hazards such as the auto falling or slipping and it’s important to keep these hazards always in mind and be safe. A bottle jack should be used for no longer than necessary and should not be used for extended periods of time. Always use a set of trestles.

Can I lift a truck with a bottle jack?

Yes, truck owners, in particular, might find bottle jacks an ideal solution, as clearance is generally not an issue and easy storage is possible in a cab compartment. This portability also makes bottle jacks especially useful in an emergency, as they can be easily carried to the scene. A bottle jack should be used for no longer than necessary and should not be used for extended periods of time. Always use a set of trestles.

What is better, bottle jack or trolley jack?

It depends…. One biggest difference is in terms of height. If your car has a high ground clearance then typically, it is recommending the use of a bottle jack. On the other hand, if your car has low ground clearance then a trolley jack will be much better.

What is an air hydraulic jack?

An air hydraulic jack is a hydraulic jack that is actuated by compressed air – for example, air from a compressor – instead of human work. This eliminates the need for the user to actuate the hydraulic mechanism, saving effort and potentially increasing speed. Sometimes, such jacks are also able to be operated by the normal hydraulic actuation method, thereby retaining functionality, even if a source of compressed air is not available.

What is an engine crane?

An engine crane (also referred as engine hoist) is a common repair tool used in vehicle repair shops to remove or install petrol or diesel engines in small and crowded vehicle engine compartments.

What are engine cranes used for?

The engine crane uses a heavy frame support structure to hold an engine in mid-air so that the mechanic can carefully connect or disconnect fragile hoses and wires on the engine to the frame of the vehicle.

What is a bead breaker?

A bead breaker is a tool used for separating tyres from rims. The inner-most diameter of the tyre that interfaces with a wheel is called the tyre Bead. The tyre bead is a thicker section of rubber, and is reinforced with braided steel cable, called the Bead Bundle. The inner-most surface of the tyre bead creates the air seal between the tyre and rim on a radial-ply tyre and a bias-ply tyre. Often, the bead can become frozen to the rim after rusting or corrosion occurs, requiring the use of a bead breaker in order to be removed.

What is a coil spring compressor?

Coil spring compressors are tools that are used to service certain types of automotive suspensions. Some vehicles use components known as struts, which combine a shock absorber and spring into an integral component of the suspension system. The springs are very strong, and under significant tension, so simply taking a strut apart can be quite dangerous. To safely accomplish this task, and to facilitate the reassembly of a strut, a coil spring compressor is typically required.

What is a jack stand?

Also knows as trestles, the height may be adjusted and it is used to support a vehicle that has been raised by a jack or bottle jack.

Why should jack stands be used?

Jack stands are an essential part of vehicle lifting. Jacks are designed to raise a load not hold it. … trestles (jack stands), on the other hand, are purpose-built to reliably hold static loads during routine maintenance.

What will happen if I don’t use jack stands?

You may cause damage to a vehicle or injure yourself.

Explain a truck wheel dolly.

A truck wheel dolly is designed to lift and move heavy tyres with ease. This will save the Service technician from having to lift equipment.

What is a hydraulic press?

It is a device using a hydraulic cylinder to generate compressive force. Hydraulic presses are commonly used for forging, clinching, molding, blanking, punching, deep drawing and metal forming operations.

What is the basic principle of hydraulic press?

Pascal’s Law, states that “Pressure applied to any part of a confined fluid transmits to every other part with no loss. The pressure acts with equal force on all equal areas of the confining walls and perpendicular to the walls.” This is the basic principle for any hydraulic system.

What can workshop presses be used for?

  • Separating rusted parts
  • Straightening bent parts
  • Compressing used oil filters

What maintenance does a workshop press require?

  • Check for oil leaks on all hydraulic lines
  • Check the oil level and if necessary, top it off
  • Check for loose bolts around the tooling area
  • Check lubrication on guided platens
  • Check the oil temperature
  • Check the ram
  • Electrical maintenance
  • Keeping your hydraulic press clean helps keep it in good working order.

What safety tips is there for using a workshop press? (Types of hazards)

Hazards can lead to accidents while operating a workshop press.

Physical: Since the press applies multiple tons of pressure, parts can go flying in every direction in the event something gives way. Protect your eyes, you have only a pair and they cannot be replaced! Do not try to extricate anything stuck in the die with your bare hands: if it pops suddenly, you could sustain severe cuts. Fire and electrocution hazards may also occur with powered systems.

Chemicals:  Some production situations require considering how chemicals can affect human health. Hydraulic fluids and lubricants can cause dermatitis if they are in contact with skin. Epoxies and liquid steel used for some dies are strong sensitizers as well. Beware of fumes and skin contact: some of the die material you are using may also be a chemical threat that causes skin problems.

Ergonomics: The press workstation needs to be adjusted to a comfortable working height. Also, work breaks are mandatory to prevent injuries. Using a hydraulic table will facilitate products loading at the comfortable height (between knee and shoulder height) while a hydraulic lift will also contribute greatly to reduce back injuries. Don’t refrain from using stands or other aids to hold pieces in the proper position.

What is the difference between a hydraulic and a mechanical press?

In a mechanical press machine, a motor creates rotational force, which is converted into pressure; this allows the machine to stamp, crush, punch or mold materials. In a hydraulic machine, hydraulic cylinders and valves use liquid pressure to create the necessary force and energy required for the press to work.

Where can I find workshop presses?

Contact Integrated Marketing, we sell a variety of workshop presses.
15ton hydraulic press

50t air hydraulic foot operated press

50t electro hydraulic press

100t electro hydraulic press

Can a hydraulic press system fail?

Unfortunately, hydraulic presses aren’t foolproof. Over time and with heavy use, presses can become damaged or worn in crucial areas. They need regular maintenance and care if you expect top performance and years of functionality.

What causes a hydraulic press system to fail?

  • Oil leaks
  • Overheating
  • Loss of pressure
  • Neglect

If not correctly cared for, presses can experience any of these failures and more. Daily inspection and regular maintenance can prevent them. Simple repair and safety measures cost far less than the potential damage that comes with leaving issues to worsen. In many cases, full machine failure can cause your press to become permanently inoperable. More seriously, it can severely injure workers. Accidents caused by faulty machinery — especially a hydraulic press — can result in minor to fatal injury.

What accidents are caused using a workshop press?

Hydraulic presses are tools, not toys. And like any tool, if improperly used, they can cause accidents — sometimes even if you think you’re being safe. Due to the nature of the hydraulic press and its functions, the most common workplace injuries involve hands and fingers. Pinching and crushing incidents are common. Using a press requires workers to place and shift metal in the area under the ram or near the bending point, exposing them directly to a high-risk scenario. Approximately 49% of power press injuries result in amputation. Press machines have so much room for failure if not cared for or operated properly, or if a preparation step is skipped. With a heavy ram under a high amount of pressure and no failsafe, the chance of catching a body part in the press may be higher than you’d assume.

What hazards does a workshop press pose?

  • Pressure failure can result in the ram dropping, crushing whatever sits under it at the time.
  • Cracked or loose fittings can rupture, causing hoses to detach.
  • Metal can fracture under pressure and fly in jagged pieces.
  • Under severe conditions, workers can suffer lacerations and puncture wounds from sharp metal, pressurized hydraulic fluid and other projectiles.
  • Press brakes, in particular, have one of the highest rates of injury, causing more than 350 reported incidents of amputations per year. The press brakes’ complicated configuration often requires operators to reach around the machine’s safety device. When bending metal sheets with small surface areas, the operator must position their fingers within very close proximity to the point of bending. Even when the device is used properly, the risk of injury is high.

Workshop press safety tips:

Maintenance: One of the best ways of avoiding potential failure and injury is through preventative machine maintenance. Hydraulic presses are consistently under a lot of stress from high pressure, high temperatures and natural wear. Over time and with heavy use, parts and fluids require regular cleaning and replacement.

Inspection: Give your machines a thorough inspection on a regular basis. You’ll want to check any hoses and seals for damage, fittings for cracks and tight fit, fluids for dirt or degradation, and the general body of the machine for any cracks. Pay close attention to any excessive vibrations or strange noises when the machine is running, as they may indicate a need for urgent repair.

Cleanliness: Keeping your hydraulics adequately lubricated and the surrounding area clean is essential not only for the machine to operate correctly but also for the safety of those using it. Lubrication is necessary for a clean stroke, reduced friction and smooth user experience. Clutter, dirt and slick oil can create dangerous circumstances. Make sure there is no potential for slipping or catching clothing on discarded materials.

Training: Any worker using a hydraulic press machine should be knowledgeable in all areas of operation to take proper safety precautions, including how to identify problems and maintain overall safety. Using a press is a specialized job, and knowing how to safely operate a hydraulic press takes experience and skill. Undertrained users have a much higher risk of injury than those who received proper training.

Explain an impact wrench

An impact wrench (also known as an impactor, impact gun, air wrench, air gun, rattle gun, torque gun, windy gun) is a socket wrench power tool designed to deliver high torque output with minimal exertion by the user, by storing energy in a rotating mass, then delivering it suddenly to the output shaft.

What is a gearbox jack used for?

A gearbox jack is what you need for installing a new transmission (gearbox) or removing one on different types of vehicles whether you are a do-it-yourself person or doing a professional job.

What are wheel dollies used for?

Wheel dollies are also known as tyre skates, wheel dollies are a fantastic addition to any home or professional setup that enables you to move wheels around with ease, meaning changing tyres has never been so easy. They are very effective for a vehicle won’t start and available in sets of four.

What is a tyre cart?

Exactly what the words imply. It is an item that is used to cart tyres around. In other words, it is a trolley designed for carrying/moving tyres.

What is a truck wheel dolly?

Truck wheel dollies are designed to lift and move heavy truck wheels with ease. This will save the Technician from having to lift heavy truck tyres.

What does a collision repair kit do?

Collision repair kit also known as a Porta Power, is perfect for clamping, pulling, bending, straightening, spreading and lifting operations. Ideal for use in the garage or workshop. Enables bodywork structures to be returned to their original shape. Heavy walled extension tubes stand up to the toughest situations and a long handle provides low pumping effort. Automatic pump overload system protects against damage to rams and equipment, Easy snap on design makes quick work of bent automobile frames and heavy lifting. All parts are neatly packed in a case for convenient to carry.

What safety certification should workshop equipment have?

Workshop equipment should ideally comply with safety standards such as CE certification, and when applicable, ISO 9001 manufacturing standards. This ensures the equipment is safe, durable, and manufactured to globally recognized benchmarks. Integrated Marketing sources only from manufacturers with certified safety and quality compliance.

What lifting capacity should I consider when choosing a jack or press?

Always select a jack or press with a lifting or pressing capacity that exceeds the weight of the vehicle or object you’re working on. For safety, consider a 25% margin above the expected load to avoid overloading the equipment.

Can I service my own hydraulic jack or press?

Basic maintenance like checking for leaks, topping up hydraulic oil, and cleaning the unit can be done yourself. However, for internal repairs, seal replacements, or pressure calibration, it is advised to consult a qualified technician or the Integrated Marketing support team.

What is the difference between manual and air hydraulic workshop presses?

Manual workshop presses use hand-operated hydraulic pumps.

Air hydraulic presses use compressed air assistance for faster, easier pressing with less physical effort.

Air hydraulic models are ideal for busy workshops that already operate with compressors.

What is the benefit of a long-reach jack?

Long-reach jacks are ideal for:

Larger vehicles like SUVs, bakkies, and 4x4s

Deep lifting points or long wheelbase vehicles

They provide extended reach under the vehicle where a standard jack cannot comfortably fit.

What equipment should be used together with a press for safe metal bending?

When using a press for bending:

Use V-blocks or press plates to guide the workpiece

Ensure you use proper safety guards or distance tools to keep hands away from the pressing zone

This ensures both the accuracy of your bend and your safety.

What air pressure is required for air-operated tools like hydraulic presses or impact wrenches?

Most air-operated workshop tools require a minimum of 6 to 8 bar (roughly 90–120 psi) of pressure. Always check your compressor’s output and ensure your airline and fittings are compatible with the tool’s requirements.

Do I need special training to use a hydraulic press?

While formal certification may not be required for personal or small workshop use, training is highly recommended. Misuse can result in serious injury. Integrated Marketing can offer basic usage training or connect you with online video tutorials or PDF guides.

What is the difference between a standard impact wrench and a torque wrench?

Impact wrench: Delivers high-torque bursts, great for loosening stubborn bolts.

Torque wrench: Allows precise tightening to a specified torque value (e.g., for cylinder heads or wheels).

Never use an impact wrench for torque-sensitive applications unless a torque stick is used.

Does Integrated Marketing provide spare parts or servicing?

Yes, Integrated Marketing stocks spare parts for most of the equipment we supply, and we provide technical support and servicing assistance through our approved partners. Contact us with the model number for support.

See our range of workshop equipment