Aircraft Jacking.

From time to time in performing aircraft maintenance and inspection procedures, it becomes
necessary to jack or hoist an aircraft. This is to facilitate a wheel change, some engine
removals, and for checking and rigging the undercarriage. Consult applicable aircraft
manufacturers maintenance instructions for specific jacking procedures. Extensive aircraft
damage and serious personal injury have resulted from careless or improper jacking
procedures. Do not exceed maximum lifting capacity of the jacks. Inspect condition of the jacks,
paying particular attention to:
1.

Proper functioning of the safety locks.

2.

Condition of pins.

3.

General serviceability.

4.

A leaking jack is never to be used (It may collapse at any stage).

Position of jacking points are found in the aircraft maintenance manual.

Each jack will require one person to operate it (often pneumatic) and one person to monitor the
aircraft attitude monitors (keep aircraft level). If there are three jacks (one each wing and one
nose or tail) then four people minimum are required. As the aircraft jacks are raised, the locking
collar must remain within two threads of its lock position. This is a backup in case the seals blow
in the jack, the lock ring will stop the jack from collapsing. No person is to remain in the aircraft
unless maintenance manual procedures require such practice. This is usually for observing
levelling instruments in the aircraft. Position the aircraft in a level position in a hangar. Before
raising an aircraft, all work stands and other equipment should be removed from around and
under the aircraft. Remove jacks immediately after lowering the aircraft to avoid damage from
sticky landing gear struts. Never position hands around or near torque links during or
immediately after jacking. Always follow the jacking movement with the jack lock nut.