Tool of the Day, #1

This tool review is about the common hydraulic shop press. Pictured at left is a floor-standing model rated at 40 tons. 

What would you need one of these for you might ask.

Many automotive operations can only be carried out with a press. Axles, differentials and transmissions almost always have gear assemblies, bearings, races and bushings that are pressed on and off of a shaft or other component. Suspensions also have bushings that are pressed into control arms and spring eyes.  Presses are handy for bending and straightening operations as well.

The market has seen a flood of inexpensive hydraulic presses from China offered at stores like Harbor Freight and on eBay. Press capacity ratings start at about 4 tons with compact models that can be placed on a workbench. Models rated at over 100 tons can also be had. Common units for automotive type work are rated at 12 and 20 tons (24,000 - 40,000 lbs). The rating refers to the amount of force the ram can place on a workpiece. Twelve to twenty tons is usually enough muscle to git 'er done. Harbor Freight stores, that great outlet for Chinese manufacture, sell presses in this capacity range for less than $250.00. You will also find them on eBay, but if you are not local to the seller freight costs can be a killer.

Anybody who's serious about shop work that involves engines, drivetrains and suspensions is going to find one of these useful.