What could happen if a jack is overloaded beyond its capacity?

Overloading a jack beyond its specified capacity can lead to catastrophic failure or tipping over, which poses significant safety risks to operators and nearby personnel. Each jack is designed with a specific load rating, ensuring it can safely lift and support the weight it is engineered for. Exceeding this load can compromise its structural integrity.

When a jack is overloaded, the internal mechanisms, such as pistons and hydraulic systems, may not function properly leading to failure. This failure can occur in the form of a sudden release of pressure, collapsing under the weight, or tipping over, which can cause damage to the vehicle being lifted, the jack itself, and potentially harm individuals in the vicinity.

It's important to recognize that jacks are not designed to work beyond their limits; this is why the load capacity is clearly marked. Ensuring that a jack remains within its safe operating range is critical for safe operation and preventing accidents in any setting where jacks are used.