Sears 3 ton floor jack - stuck
 

Lifted the 560SEL using the left left point (driver's side) using a Sears 3 ton floor jack. Left it overnight, then installed the wheel and tire. TThis afternoon, the floor jack refused to release....so, placed a large set of vice grips on the handle near the base. Kicked the vice grips gently until the jack released. the handle had to make at least a 3/4 turn before the jack released. I've had this jack around fifteen years (maybe longer). I don't like it when a jack starts acting up.

Should I replace the floor jack with a new one?

I vote thumbs up. Doesn't need to be a 3-ton, so I would estimate $50.

Well, look at the release gear (at the base of the handle and on the hydraulic part of the jack), maybe you just need to grease the 2 "star" wheels and oil the shaft that goes through the handle. Tools need to be serviced occasionally just like vehicles do. You may even see a few grease zirks on the jack if you look for them. Oil up the wheel axles and swivels while you're at it.

Has the hydraulic oil ever been changed out in that thing? (if it can be)

No, and I am looking at the owner's manual and it says the oil can be replaced.....so me thinks I should replace the oil pronto! Also, the manual says the following;

Rust Prevention

Check ram and pump plunger every two months (or sooner, based on usage) for any signs of rust or corrosion. Clean as needed and wipe down with an oil cloth.

When storing the jack, always have the saddle and pump lunger all the way in the down position. (I always store the jack in the down position).

ALWAYS USE A GOOD GRADE HYDRAULIC JACK OIL. DO NOT USE HYDRAULIC BRAKE FLUID, ALCOHOL, GLYCERINE, DETERGENT, MOTOR OIL OR DIRTY OIL. USE OF AN UNRECOMMENDED FLUID CAN CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR JACK.

I am thinking that the hydraulic oil should be available at Sears?

Any auto parts store should have it. Maybe Sears. Hard to say. I would call and ask.

Sounds like you are about 14 yrs 10 months late on the inspection and at least 10 yrs late on the service. lol

Sears does carry the oil.

I should add that if the star wheels at the base of the handle are really worn out, you probably should replace it, unless you can find a source for the star wheels. Possiby your design is different tho.

You might want to check out this site, lots of good floor jack info on the forum:

http://garagejournal.com

yeah, I found information from the site that shows how to rebuild a 'built in taiwan or china' floor jack. The thought of lifting a 4200 pound classic benz with a 'made in taiwan or china' floor jack doesn't sit well with me. I'm thinking about looking for a higher quality floor jack.

for sure, the question is whether to try and install a seal kit (around 3 - 4 hours labor) plus new hydraulic oil or just purchase a new one. I'm leaning towards replacement, there is increased risk to both me and the car using a jack that is beginning to malfunction.