Tool Review: Bar’s Leak Jack Oil with Stop Leak HJ-12
Sept. 8, 2021
Voice Your Opinion!
Voice Your Opinion!
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this product for?
A: I put the Bar’s Leak HJ-12 into three different problematic jacks. The first was our transmission jack — this one liked to mark it’s territory every time it was used. The transmission jack no longer does this. The second jack was a very, very, very old 50 ton heavy truck jack that just plain leaks all the time. The HJ-12 did not completely cure this one, it did stop the perpetual leak though. Now this jack only leaks when pumping. That is a better result than expected, as I said this is a very old jack that honestly needs a rebuilt or to be replaced. The last jack I used it in had a stuttering problem, both up and down as it were. The Bar’s Leak has cured it’s stutters, sticky pump pistons, so I am quite pleased with the HJ-12.
Q: How did the product function as far as saving you time?
A: This product really isn’t designed as a time saving tool. On the other hand using it should stop having to constantly check and fill your jacks. That in itself could save you quite a bit of time.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: Set up for proper use here is to clean around the jack’s fill port and remove it. No “shake well” required with the HJ-12.
Q: How was its packaging?
A: The product itself is just a bottle with a stepped cap. You cut the tip off so it fits into the jack’s fill port. There is a sleeve over the neck of the bottle with useful information. I was sent a display pack that would sit on a shelf. This display container is perforated to allow easy removal of the product.
Q: Was there a manual included?
A: No manual; just usage instructions on the bottle.
Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: Yes, with very different results. The jack leak stop I have used in the past was thick as molasses. Using it made the jack frustrating to use, especially in cold weather. I was so disappointed I ended up flushing it all out and living with the drips. The HJ-12 has really slowed the leak and perhaps improved the overall performance of this jack.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to the tool?
A: How about an extended/flexible spout to make it easier and less messy to get into the jack’s fill port.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why?
A: I give the HJ-12 a 10 for sure! Even though it didn’t completely cure our 50 ton it sure made an improvement. I would much rather spend a few bucks refilling this jack than a thousand or so replacing it.
The Bar’s Leaks Jack Oil with Stop Leak, No. HJ12, is designed to stop seal and O-ring leaks in jacks and other hydraulic shop equipment caused by normal wear and age. The product also works to stop leaks in other hydraulic shop equipment, including transmission jacks and engine lifts, as well as snowplows. According to the company, it is non-corrosive, non-clogging and non-foaming. Available in case packs of six 12 oz. bottles, it is made in the U.S.A.
