Stephen wrote:
On Sun, 12 Aug 2012 09:25:55 -0700 (PDT), Andy Dingley
I've a high-lift jack too, which
is one of the most dangerous bits of kit I own, on a par with
chainsaws.

Are we talking about something like this:
http://www.screwfix.com/p/farm-jack-...questid=214863

Why do you say they are as dangerous as a chainsaw? Is it the
consequences of the object being lifted falling off and on top of you
or something else?

You could start with that, then add in the probability that at some
point the ratchet *will* fail under load, dropping whatever's being
supported from a great height. The ratchet is also prone to getting
jammed by mud and dirt.

One common use for them is to lift a Land Rover out of deep ruts, then
push sideways to let the jack fall over and hope that the Land Rover
will land on higher ground. Half the time, the base kicks out sideways
and gets you in the shins or worse, while the Land Rover just drops back
into the ruts.

The safest way to use them is as a sort of short pull winch, with one
end attached to something solid, and the cable attached to the arm. Even
then, you need to watch them like a hawk.

--
Tciao for Now!

John.