To bleed air from a hydraulic bottle jack, you essentially flip it upside down to let gravity move the air upwards, then compress the ram while the release valve is open.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Position the Jack: Flip the bottle jack upside down. This helps the air bubbles rise towards the release valve.
- Open the Release Valve: Fully open the release valve. This allows the air and fluid to escape when you compress the ram.
- Compress the Ram: Apply force to the ram to compress it. You might need to use your body weight or a tool to push it down. This forces the trapped air and some hydraulic fluid out of the system.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 2 and 3 several times. This ensures that as much air as possible is removed from the hydraulic system.
- Refill if Needed: After bleeding, check the hydraulic fluid level. If it's low, refill it with the appropriate hydraulic jack oil. Consult your jack's manual for the correct type of oil.
- Test the Jack: Test the jack by raising and lowering it several times. The jack should operate smoothly and consistently. If it still feels spongy or doesn't lift properly, repeat the bleeding process.
