The Hi-Lift jack is somewhat of an icon, which is no surprise considering its parent company was established in 1895, making it one of the oldest companies in the state of Indiana. The jack’s predecessor was invented back in 1905. It’s become a well-respected tool in the overlander’s recovery kit, and with the new Winch-Clamp-Spreader (WCS) attachment, it just got even better.
In the words of the company: “The most requested Hi-Lift component is now available for purchase as a standalone accessory.” This attachment replaces the top-clamp clevis found on all standard model Hi-Lifts and enhances its capabilities along with ease of use. As the name suggests, this product is focused on three key features: winching, clamping, and spreading. This is how it works.
Winching: Secure your winching chain or strap to the shackle hole of the WCS using a hard or soft shackle. Connect another chain or strap to the lifting nose of the Hi-Lift (or use the special attachments available in the Hi-Lift Off-Road Kit). Operate the Hi-Lift as specified in the winching section of the Hi-Lift jack instruction manual (available online at hi-lift.com). Chain may be attached directly to the WCS using its 3/8-inch chain slot, which allows for quick slack adjustment during setup.
Clamping: By using the serrated edge on the WCS, the Hi-Lift jack can be used to clamp building sections, concrete forms, tobacco presses, and broken parts. Additionally, it can be used for pressing springs, tensioning fences, etc.
Spreading: It’s useful for many extreme spreading or prying applications, including as a backup for the “jaws of life” tool. Firefighters can remove a car door to rescue trapped victims, move steering wheels, and spread door jams for forcible entry requirements. The WCS is also handy for tightening machinery belts, positioning beams/trusses, straightening frames, pushing bent fenders, moving heavy loads, and much more.
It’s worth noting that some models, such as the X-Treme jack, include the WCS Attachment as standard. However, for those of you who already own a Hi-Lift, the new accessory comes in at $40, which isn’t a lot of money for the bonus features. Moreover, it can be fitted to any point on the Hi-Lift using a quick-tightening wing nut. I’m always looking to maximise the functionality of existing tools/equipment, and this innovative accessory (weighing just 3.9 pounds) does just that.
$40 | hi-lift.com
Specifications
Winch, clamp, spread – up to 5,000 pounds
3/8-inch chain slot for easy/secure winching and quick slack adjustment
7/8-inch shackle hole for easy/secure, non-binding hard or soft shackle attachment
Cut-out wedge for “gripping” when spreading
One position for all winching, clamping, and spreading applications
Attachable to any point on the Hi-Lift steel standard bar
Packaged weight and dimensions: 3.9 pounds | 13.625 x 7.75 x 1.5 inches (LxWxH)
