Enerpac Cube Jack: A Steel Cribbing Jack System for Controlled Lifting
Traditional jack-and-pack lifting can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and dependent on wood cribbing materials. For projects that require controlled lifting in tight spaces, a steel cribbing jack system offers a more efficient alternative.
The Enerpac Cube Jack system, available for rent from LGH, combines a hydraulic base lifting frame with self-aligning steel cribbing blocks. Also known as a cribbing jack system, crib jack, or self-locking cube jack, this equipment is designed to help crews lift and lower heavy loads while maintaining mechanical support throughout the process.
When paired with the right hydraulic power unit or split-flow pump, cube jacks can support controlled multi-point lifting for applications where stability, repeatability, and compact equipment are important.
What Is a Steel Cribbing Jack System?
A steel cribbing jack system is a hydraulic jacking solution that uses engineered steel cribbing blocks instead of traditional wood cribbing. As the jack raises the load, steel cribbing blocks are inserted into the system and mechanically locked into place.
The Enerpac Cube Jack system includes a base lifting frame, an end block with a swivel saddle, steel cribbing blocks, and a transportation frame. The cribbing blocks are designed to self-align using pins and slots, helping maintain stability throughout the lift.
Unlike traditional jack-and-pack methods, where crews manually build crib stacks under the load, the cube jack provides a more integrated lifting and cribbing process.
Key Components of a Cube Jack System
A cube jack system is made up of several important components that work together during lifting and lowering.
Base Lifting Frame
The base lifting frame is the main body of the jack. It includes the hydraulic plunger, hydraulic connections, mode selector lever and pin, relief valve, and self-locking collar.
Integrated pallet truck lifting points help crews move the unit with a standard pallet jack. Lifting eyes are also included when the system needs to be hoisted into place.
Removable Insert Table
The removable insert table helps stage and install each cribbing block during operation. When it is not in use, the insert table stores on the side of the unit so it remains close at hand.
End Block with Swivel Saddle
The end block is installed before the lift begins. It includes an adjustable swivel saddle that allows for fine adjustment during setup, helping align the system with the load.
Steel Cribbing Blocks
The steel cribbing blocks are designed to self-align as they are stacked. Pins on the top and slots on the bottom help each block seat properly, supporting a stable lift.
Depending on the model, cube jack systems can include multiple cribbing blocks to support significant lifting height while reducing the need for traditional wood cribbing.

Why Use a Steel Cribbing Jack System?
A steel cribbing jack system can be useful when a project requires controlled lifting, compact equipment, and a more consistent alternative to traditional jack-and-pack methods.
Key benefits include:
- Mechanical locking during lifting and lowering: The system automatically locks after each lifting or lowering stroke.
- Self-aligning steel cribbing: Engineered cribbing blocks help maintain alignment and reduce the need for wood cribbing.
- Compact footprint: Cube jacks can be used in confined spaces where larger equipment may not fit.
- Simplified operation: The lifting sequence can require fewer cycles than climbing jacks.
- Portable design: Integrated fork pockets and lifting rings help with positioning.
- Multi-point lifting capability: When paired with a split-flow pump, cube jacks can support more controlled lifting across multiple points.
For crews working in tight areas or around sensitive equipment, these benefits can help reduce labor, improve control, and keep the lift moving efficiently.
Cube Jacks vs. Traditional Jack-and-Pack Lifting
Traditional jack-and-pack lifting often relies on hydraulic jacks and wood cribbing. As the load is raised, crews add cribbing beneath the load to maintain support. While this method is common, it can be slower and more labor-intensive.
A cube jack system improves on this process by combining the jack and cribbing support into one integrated system. Instead of building wood crib stacks, crews insert engineered steel cribbing blocks into the cube jack as the lift progresses.
This can help:
- Reduce the amount of loose cribbing material on site
- Improve repeatability during lifting and lowering
- Reduce manual handling compared to traditional cribbing setups
- Maintain mechanical support throughout the process
- Save space in confined work areas
Check out the video below from the manufacturer Enerpac to learn more about the difference between the Cube Jack steel cribbing jack system and the traditional jack-and-pack system with wooden cribbing:
Synchronized Lifting with Cube Jacks
Cube jacks are often used with split-flow pumps for multi-point lifting applications. Enerpac recommends SFP-Series split-flow pumps for lifting and lowering with multiple outlets and equal oil flow.
When multiple cube jacks are connected to a split-flow pump, crews can achieve more coordinated lifting and lowering than they could with separately operated pumps. For applications requiring greater precision, split-flow pump systems can also be configured with stroke sensors and computer-controlled lifting functions.
This makes cube jacks a practical option for projects that require controlled lifting but may not need a full-scale computerized jack-up system.
Common Applications for Cribbing Jack Systems
Steel cribbing jack systems can be used in a variety of industries where heavy loads must be lifted, supported, or lowered in a controlled way.
Common applications include:
- Shipyards: Positioning ship components when hoisting is not practical
- Power generation: Lifting transformers, boilers, turbines, or large machinery in tight spaces
- Bridge and civil construction: Supporting controlled lifting for bearing replacement, structural work, or jack-and-slide setups
- Heavy haul: Offloading equipment from trailers by jacking the load, removing the trailer, and lowering the load to the ground
- Industrial maintenance: Lifting and positioning machinery or equipment during repair and replacement work
The right application depends on the load, lift height, number of lift points, site conditions, and required level of synchronization.
Check out this LGH case study of a construction company using 6 cube jacks to raise a pavilion stage in South Dakota.
Renting Steel Cribbing Jack Systems from LGH
For many projects, renting a steel cribbing jack system is a practical alternative to purchasing equipment that may only be needed for specific lifts. LGH offers cube jacks, hydraulic pumps, split-flow pumps, cylinders, and other jacking equipment for rent.
Our rental specialists can help evaluate your lift requirements, including load weight, lifting height, number of jacking points, available space, pump requirements, and synchronization needs.
Whether your project calls for a cribbing jack system, hydraulic jacking setup, or synchronized lifting solution, LGH can help match the right equipment to the job.
- SCJ100 Cube Jack steel cribbing jack system in the LGH warehouse.
- SCJ100 Cube Jack steel cribbing jack system in the LGH warehouse.
Conclusion
A steel cribbing jack system provides a compact, controlled alternative to traditional jack-and-pack lifting with wood cribbing. By combining a hydraulic base lifting frame with self-aligning steel cribbing blocks, cube jacks help crews lift and lower heavy loads while maintaining mechanical support throughout the process.
Also known as a cribbing jack system, crib jack, cribbing jack, or self-locking cube jack, this equipment can be especially useful in tight spaces, multi-point lifts, and projects where stability and efficiency are important.
For help choosing the right steel cribbing jack system or hydraulic jacking equipment for your next project, contact LGH today or call 800-878-7305 to speak with a rental specialist.
ABOUT LGH
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 of equipment, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.




