Matco Tools MB12A Instructions for use

Operating Instructions & Parts Manual
Read this manual and follow all the Safety Rules and Operating Instructions before using this product.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards.
Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
!
!ADVERTENCIA
• Leer, comprender, y seguir las instrucciónes antes
de utilizar el aparato.
• El manual de instrucciónes y la información de
seguridad deben estar comunicado en lengua del
operador antes del uso.
• No seguir estas indicaciónes puede causar daños
personales o materiales.
!WARNING
To avoid crushing and related injuries:
NEVER work on, under or around a
load supported only by a hydraulic
jack. ALWAYS use a pair of adequately
rated jack stands.
Bottle Jacks
Printed in P.R.C.
MB12A-M2 11/12
Capacity
12 Ton
12 Ton (Short)
20 Ton
20 Ton (Short)
Model
MB12A
MBS12A
MB20A
MBS20A
MATCO TOOLS
http://www.matcotools.com
U.S. Patent No. 5,946,912
Models MBS12A & MBS20A
Models MB12A & MB20A

2
SPECIFICATIONS
SAFETY and GENERAL INFORMATION
Save these instructions. For your safety, read, understand, and follow the information provided with and on this
device before using. The owner and/or operator shall have an understanding of the device, its operating characteristics
and safety operating instructions before operating the equipment. The owner and/or operator shall be aware that use
and repair of this product may require special skills and knowledge. Instructions and safety information shall be read
to and discussed with the operator in the operator's native language, making sure that the operator comprehends
their contents, before use of this equipment is authorized. If any doubt exists as to the safe and proper use of this
device, remove from service immediately.
Inspect before each use. Do not use if abnormal conditions such as cracked welds, damaged, loose or missing
parts are noted. Any equipment that appears damaged in any way, is found to be worn, or operates abnormally shall
be removed from service until repaired. If the equipment has been or is suspected to have been subjected to an
abnormal load or shock, immediately discontinue use until inspected by a factory authorized repair facility (contact
distributor or manufacturer for list of authorized repair facilities). It is recommended that an annual inspection be
made by an authorized repair facility. Labels and Operator's Manuals are available from the manufacturer.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Matco Tools Bottle Jacks are designed to lift, not support, rated capacity loads consisting of one end of a vehicle.
Immediately after lifting, the load must be supported by a pair of appropriately rated jack stands.
WARNING: Never use hydraulic jack as a stand alone device. After lifting, immediately support the lifted
load with a pair of appropriately rated jack stands.
!
Model Capacity Base Size (L x W) Min. Height Max. Height Extension Screw
MB12A
12 Ton 5-3/8" x 6"
9-5/8" 18-5/8" 3"
MBS12A 6-1/8" 10-5/8" 1-5/8"
MB20A
20 Ton 6-3/8" x 5-7/8"
9-7/8" 18-7/8" 3"
MBS20A 6-3/4" 11-5/8" 1-3/4"

3
PREPARATION
Before Use
1. Verify that the product and application are compatible, if in doubt call Matco Tools Technical Service (866) BUY-
TOOL.
2. Before using this product, read the operator's manual completely and familiarize yourself thoroughly with the
product, its components and recognize the hazards associated with its use.
3. Assemble handle, ensure spring clips align with slots.
4. To familiarize yourself with basic operation, use the notched end of provided handle to engage and turn the release
valve:
a. Clockwise until rm resistance is felt to further turning. This is the ‘CLOSED’ release valve position used to
raise the ram plunger.
b. Counter-clockwise, but no more than 1/2 turn from the closed position. This is the ‘OPEN’ release valve
position used to lower the ram plunger.
5. With ram plunger fully retracted and release valve closed, pump the operating handle. If ram plunger responds
immediately, jack is ready for use. If jack does not respond, follow Bleeding/Venting Trapped Air instruction below.
6. Check that the pump operates smoothly and that the extension screw will thread up/down easily before putting into
service. Replace worn or damaged parts and assemblies with Matco Tools authorized replacement parts only.
Bleeding/Venting Trapped Air
With the release valve in the OPEN position (step 4b above) and with ram plunger fully lowered, locate and remove
the oil ller plug. Insert the pump handle into the handle sleeve; then pump 6 to 8 full strokes. This will help release
any pressurized air which may be trapped within the reservoir. Oil level should be even with the bottom of the oil
ller hole. Reinstall the oil ller plug.
Figure 1 - Typical Bottle Jack Nomenclature (MB20A shown)
Extension Screw
Two-Piece Handle
Release Valve
Oil Filler Plug
Carry Handle
Ram Plunger
Saddle
Handle Sleeve

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OPERATION
Raising the Ram Plunger
1. Assemble pump handle, align spring clips with corresponding slots.
2. Place vehicle in park, with emergency brake on and wheels securely chocked to prevent inadvertent vehicle
movement.
3. Locate and close release valve by turning pump handle clockwise until rm resistance is felt.
4. Verify lift point, center jack saddle under lift point.
5. Insert pump handle into handle sleeve and pump to contact lift point. To lift, continue pumping until load reaches
desired height.
6. Transfer the lifted load to a pair of appropriately rated jack stands.
NOTICE: Use pump handle provided by jack manufacturer. The handle provided with this jack will safely engage
the release valve and operate the handle sleeve. If handle is worn, operates abnormally, or will not positively engage
the release valve, STOP, discontinue use of the jack until a factory replacement handle can be acquired.
Lowering
WARNING: Clear all tools and personnel before lowering load. Open release valve slowly. The further handle
is turned counter-clockwise, the faster the load will descend. Maintain control of the load at all times.
1. Raise load high enough to clear the jack stands, then carefully remove jack stands (always used in pairs).
2. Slowly turn the pump handle counter-clockwise, but no more than 1/2 turn. If the load fails to lower:
a. Use another jack to raise the vehicle high enough to reinstall jack stands.
b. Remove the affected jack and then the stands.
c. Use the functioning jack to lower the vehicle.
3. After removing jack from under the load, push ram pluger and handle sleeve down to reduce exposure to rust
and contamination.
!
To avoid crushing and related injuries:
• Never work on, under or around a load supported
only by hydraulic jack.
• Always use adequately rated jack stands.
• Chock each unlifted tire in both directions.
• Do not use this device to lift, level, lower, support
nor move a house, mobile home, travel trailer,
camper or any building structure.
• Be alert and sober when using this product.
Do not operate under the inuence of drugs or
alcohol.
!WARNING
!WARNING
• Study, understand, and follow all instructions
before operating this device.
• Do not exceed rated capacity.
• Use only on hard, level surface.
• This is a lifting device only. Immediately after
lifting, support the load with appropriate means.
• Lift only on areas of the vehicle as specied by
the vehicle manufacturer.
• No alterations shall be made to this product.
• Only attachments and/or adapters supplied by
the manufacturer shall be used.
• Failure to heed these markings may result in
personal injury and/or property damage.

MAINTENANCE
NOTICE: Use only good quality hydraulic jack oil. Avoid mixing different types of uid and NEVER use brake uid,
turbine oil, transmission uid, motor oil or glycerin. Improper uid can cause premature failure of the jack and the
potential for sudden and immediate loss of load. Premium hydraulic jack oil is recommended.
Adding oil
1. With ram plunger fully lowered and pump piston fully depressed, set jack in its upright, level position. Remove
oil ller plug.
2. Fill with oil until just below the rim of the oil ller hole. Reinstall the oil ller plug.
Changing oil
For best performance and longest life, replace the complete uid supply at least once per year.
1. With ram plunger fully lowered and pump piston fully depressed, remove the oil ller plug.
2. Lay the jack on its side and drain the uid into a suitable container.
NOTICE: Dispose of hydraulic oil in accordance with local environmental regulations.
3. Fill with oil until just below the rim of oil ller hole.
4. Perform Bleeding/Venting Trapped Air procedure (page 3). Reinstall the oil ller plug.
Lubrication
A periodic coating of light lubricating oil to pivot points, axles and hinges will help to prevent rust and assure that
pump assemblies move freely.
Cleaning
Periodically check the pump piston and ram plunger for signs of rust or corrosion. Clean as needed and wipe with
an oily cloth.
NOTICE: Do not use sandpaper or abrasive material on ram or pump piston surfaces.
Storage
When not in use, store the jack with pump piston and ram plunger fully retracted and air supply disconnected.
5
TROUBLESHOOTING
Symptom Possible Causes Corrective Action
Jack will not lift load • Release valve not tightly closed
• Overload condition
• Ensure release valve tightly closed
•Remedy overload condition
Jack will lift, but not maintain
pressure
•Release valve not tightly closed
•Hydraulic unit malfunction
•Ensure release valve tightly closed
•Contact Matco Tools Tech. Service
Jack will not lower after
unloading
• Reservoir overlled • Ensure load is removed, then drain
uid to proper level
Poor lift performance • Fluid level low
•Air trapped in system
• Ensure proper uid level
•Follow Bleeding/Venting Trapped
Air procedure on page 3
Will not lift to full extension • Fluid level low • Ensure proper uid level

Replacement Parts List for Models MB12A, MBS12A, MB20A & MBS20A
6
Figure 2 - Illustration for Models MB12A & MB20A Figure 3 - Illustration for Models MBS12A & MBS20A
Item Part No. Description Qty
1F36100-0001 Oil Filler Plug 1
2B21207-0002 Handle Assembly 1
3 B80200-0001 Release Valve Assembly 1
-B21207-0001
(for MB12A & MBS12A)
B22007-0000 (for MB20A & MBS20A)
Repair Kit (includes all soft seals, oil ller
plug & release valve assembly) -
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Not all components of the jack are replacement items, but are illustrated as a convenient reference of location and
position in the assembly sequence. When ordering parts, please give the Model number, part number and parts
description. Call or write for current pricing: Matco Tools, 4403 Allen Road, Stow, OH 44224-1096, U.S.A.
Tel: (866) BUY-TOOL Matco Tools Website: http://www.matcotools.com
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7
ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
For a period of one (1) year from date of purchase, Matco Tools will repair or replace, at its option, without
charge, any of its products, which fails due to a defect in material or workmanship under normal usage. This limited
warranty is a consumer's exclusive remedy.
Performance of any obligation under this warranty may be obtained by returning the warranted product,
freight prepaid, to Matco Tools Warranty Service Department, 4403 Allen Road, Stow, OH 44224-1096.
Except where such limitations and exclusions are specically prohibited by applicable law, (1) THE
CONSUMER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY SHALL BE THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE
PRODUCTS AS DESCRIBED ABOVE. (2) Matco Tools SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL
OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGE OR LOSS WHATSOEVER. (3) ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT
LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, SHALL BE LIMITED TO ONE YEAR, OTHERWISE THE REPAIR, REPLACEMENT OR REFUND AS
PROVIDED UNDER THIS EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER,
AND IS PROVIDED IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. (4) ANY MODIFICATION,
ALTERATION, ABUSE, UNAUTHORIZED SERVICE OR ORNAMENTAL DESIGN VOIDS THIS WARRANTY AND
IS NOT COVERED BY THIS WARRANTY.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not
apply to you. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specic legal rights, and you may also
have other rights, which vary from state to state.
Matco Tools
4403, Allen Road, Stow, OH 44224-1096, U.S.A.
Tel: (866) BUY-TOOL
Matco Website: http://www.matcotools.com

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Matco Tools
4403, Allen Road, Stow, OH 44224-1096, U.S.A.
Tel: (866) BUY-TOOL
Matco Website: http://www.matcotools.com
Notes