Hydraulic lock nut rams are a powerful and versatile tool used across a variety of heavy-lifting applications — from raising bridges and concrete foundations to lifting heavy equipment for extended periods. But with that versatility comes the need for proper use and care, especially on job sites where safety and equipment integrity are paramount.
At LGH, we’ve seen the consequences of misuse — damaged equipment, project delays, and preventable hazards. That’s why understanding how to properly use lock nut rams is essential to protecting your crew, your project, and your bottom line.
Lock nut rams are designed to hold a load in place even after the hydraulic system is removed, making them ideal for long-duration lifts without cribbing. One key feature is the pivoting cylinder head, which can tilt ±5° to maintain full contact with the load. While helpful during lifting, that same movement can cause severe damage if not reset before lowering the load.
The most common damage occurs to the cylinder threads, which are essential for locking the load. When a ram is side-loaded — often due to improper surface conditions or uneven lowering — these threads can flatten or score the housing. This kind of wear can:
• Disable the locking feature
• Cause hydraulic leaks
• Result in full ram failure
In some cases, the damage may be repairable, but repairs come with unexpected costs and downtime that could have been avoided with proper handling.
Here are a few key ways to avoid costly damage and ensure safe lifting:
✅ Start with a solid, level base.
Verify the ground or surface can support the full load. If the ram shifts during the lift, the head can lose full contact — a major safety risk.
✅ Keep the ram plumb and level.
This ensures uniform pressure and helps prevent thread damage or side-loading.
✅ Use cribbing for added safety.
Cribbing distributes the load, stabilizes the lift, and acts as a fail-safe. Think of it like using a jack stand under your car — a basic but essential safety measure.
✅ Understand max stroke indicators.
Low-profile pancake rams have a color-coded warning strip on the piston. If you exceed it, the plunger can eject from the housing, leading to serious damage and potential injury.
When working under a car, you’d never rely on just a jack. You’d use:
• A jack stand for stability (cribbing)
• The parking brake (lock nut)
• A wheel chock (check valve)
The same logic applies on a job site. Treat every lift with the same level of precaution and redundancy to keep people and equipment safe.
At LGH, we provide industry-leading hydraulic lifting equipment that’s maintained to the highest standards. But even the best equipment can’t prevent avoidable issues if not used correctly. By following these best practices and staying vigilant, you can extend the life of your equipment, protect your team, and keep your projects running smoothly.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
