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Jet  |  SKU: LEV-JET110604

1/2 TON 5' CHAIN LEVER HOIST

Regular price $231.44
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Description

What the Product Contains

This lever hoist contains 1 Jet model VLP-50-5 unit with integrated 5-foot lifting chain.

Product Overview

The Jet 1/2 ton chain lever hoist offers a robust and reliable manual lifting solution for construction professionals, machine shops, and industrial environments. Renowned for its superior forged steel construction and Weston double ratchet brake mechanism, this manual winch ensures maximum safety during every lifting operation.

Designed to ASME B30.21 and OSHA standards, this manual lever hoist features corrosion-resistant grade 80 chain and hooks equipped with safety latches to prevent accidental release. The progressive brake system allows for precise descent control, while the ergonomic lever reduces fatigue during extended use. With a certified lifting capacity of 1100 lb (500 kg), this construction hoist meets the demands of the most challenging commercial and industrial applications.

The 5-foot lifting chain provides ample reach for most shop, garage, and job site tasks. The sealed housing protects the internal mechanism from dust and moisture, ensuring consistent performance even in harsh environments. This manual hoist is designed to operate efficiently in Quebec's extreme climate, from -40°C to +60°C, guaranteeing year-round reliability. Each unit comes with a load test certificate and is backed by Jet's globally recognized manufacturer's warranty.

Key Points:

  • Certified capacity 1/2 tonne (1100 lb / 500 kg)
  • 5-foot, grade 80 corrosion-resistant chain
  • Weston double ratchet brake for maximum safety
  • Compliant with ASME B30.21 and OSHA with test certificate
  • Forged steel construction for professional durability

Ideal for lifting and positioning loads in mechanical shops, auto garages, construction sites, and industrial facilities. This compact and portable lever hoist is easily transported from site to site and requires no electrical power. Free shipping across Canada on orders of $150 or more.

Use

Ideal for a variety of professional and commercial applications:

  • Lifting and removal of automotive engines and transmissions
  • Installation and removal of heavy machinery in the workshop
  • Positioning of beams and metal structures during construction
  • Lifting HVAC equipment during commercial installations
  • Moving loads in the warehouse and loading dock
  • Industrial maintenance and mechanical repair work
  • Horizontal lifting for pulling or positioning loads
  • Forestry and agricultural applications requiring portable lifting

Technical Specifications

  • Rated capacity: 1/2 tonne (1100 lb / 500 kg)
  • Model: VLP-50-5 (Jet 110604)
  • Lifting length: 5 feet (1.5 m)
  • Chain type: Grade 80, corrosion resistant
  • Chain diameter: 6 mm
  • Number of chain strands: 1
  • Brake type: Progressive Weston double ratchet
  • Case material: Heat-treated forged steel
  • Hook type: Forged with lockable safety latches
  • Top hook opening: 0.87 inch (22 mm)
  • Bottom hook opening: 0.87 inch (22 mm)
  • Unit weight: 12.5 lb (5.7 kg)
  • Recommended pulling force: 65 lb (29 kg)
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to +60°C
  • Load test: 150% of rated capacity (certified)
  • Compliance: ASME B30.21, OSHA 1910.184
  • Certification: Compliant with Canadian CSA standards
  • Finish: Corrosion-resistant epoxy paint
  • Manufacturer's warranty: 1 year parts and labor Jet

Product Set

Contents of the Jet 1/2 Ton Lever Hoist

Your purchase includes a complete, ready-to-use lever hoist, factory-tested and certified to North American safety standards. Each Jet unit is individually inspected before shipping to ensure optimal quality.

Included in your order:

1x Jet Lever Hoist VLP-50-5 (1/2 ton)

Complete, factory-assembled unit with integrated Weston double ratchet brake mechanism. The heat-treated, forged steel housing resists impacts and protects internal components from premature wear. Ergonomic lever with textured grip for a firm and secure hold, even with work gloves.

5-foot grade 80 lifting chain

High-strength galvanized chain with permanent capacity marking. Welded link construction resists deformation under load. Anti-corrosion treatment for long-lasting performance in Quebec's humid and saline environments.

forged upper hook with safety latch

Forged alloy steel suspension hook tested to 150% of capacity. Lockable spring-loaded latch prevents accidental detachment. Permanent laser-engraved markings indicating capacity and load direction.

Forged lower hook with safety latch

360° swiveling load hook for flexible positioning. Identical construction to the top hook with integrated safety latch. Free rotation capability to prevent chain twisting.

Load test certificate and documentation

Individual test certificate confirming factory inspection at 150% of rated capacity. User and maintenance manual in French and English. ASME B30.21 compliance guide and detailed safety instructions.

Advantages of the Professional Jet Hoist

Certified maximum security

Compliant with the most stringent industry standards, including ASME B30.21, OSHA, and CSA. The Weston dual ratchet brake system virtually eliminates the risk of load dropping, even when the lever is fully released. Hooks with locking latches provide redundant security for critical applications.

Recognized professional sustainability

Constructed entirely of forged steel, guaranteeing exceptional durability even under heavy daily use. The Jet brand has been synonymous with quality in the lifting industry for over 60 years. Proven resistance to Canada's extreme weather conditions, including winter temperatures as low as -40°C.

Versatility of use

Vertical, horizontal, and angled lifting capacity up to 45 degrees to adapt to any situation. Compact and portable at only 12.5 lbs, it's easily transported between job sites. No electrical power required; it works wherever you need it.

Profitable investment

Exceptional value compared to competing brands in the same category. Minimal maintenance costs thanks to the sealed housing and superior quality components. Jet replacement parts readily available in Canada to extend its lifespan.

Recommended Additional Accessories

Optimize your investment and increase the versatility of your lifting equipment:

Grade 80 chain sling with hooks- Allows you to safely hang irregularly shaped loads. Available in various lengths to suit your specific needs.

Adjustable hoist trolley- Transforms your hoist into a mobile I-beam lifting system. Hardened steel wheels supporting up to 1 ton.

Lubricant for lifting chains- Specialized formula that extends chain life. Reduces friction and protects against corrosion.

Care and Usage

First Use

Activating your new Jet lever hoist:

1. Complete visual inspection

Before first use, carefully inspect the entire hoist for any potential damage that may have occurred during transport. Check that the hooks open and close correctly with the safety latches. Inspect each chain link to ensure there are no deformations, cracks, or defective welds.

2. Brake mechanism check

Suspend the hoist from a solid anchor point without any attached load. Operate the lever in both directions to familiarize yourself with the mechanism and check the smooth operation of the double ratchet brake. The brake should engage instantly when you release the lever, without any chain slippage.

3. Progressive lifting test

Begin by lifting a light load representing approximately 25% of the maximum capacity to test its proper operation. Gradually increase the weight until you reach your usual working load. This procedure allows you to verify the hoist's correct settings and familiarize yourself with the required pulling force.

4. Initial lubrication

Apply a few drops of lifting chain lubricant along the entire length of the chain before the first intensive use. Operate the hoist several times to distribute the lubricant evenly throughout the internal mechanism.

Daily Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of your Jet lever hoist:

After each use:

  • Wipe the chain with a clean cloth to remove dust, dirt and debris
  • Visually inspect the hooks for any abnormal deformation or wear.
  • Check that the safety latches engage firmly without excessive play
  • Store the hoist suspended or in a dry place away from moisture.
  • Store the chain in a way that avoids knots or twists.

Chain management:

  • Let the chain hang freely without twisting when the hoist is not in use
  • Avoid stepping on the chain or letting it drag on the ground
  • Apply a light lubricant every 10 hours of intensive use

Brake mechanism inspection:

  • Test the brake before each work session by slightly lifting a load
  • Listen for any unusual noises that could indicate wear on the pawls.
  • Ensure the brake engages instantly without chain slippage

Cleaning and Maintenance

Deep monthly cleaning:

1. Chain cleaning

Use a soft wire brush to remove dirt buildup between the links. For a deeper clean, soak the chain in a non-corrosive degreasing solvent for 15 minutes, then brush and dry thoroughly. Immediately reapply lubricant after cleaning to prevent corrosion.

2. Cleaning the case

Wipe the exterior of the case with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid directing pressurized water onto the case, as this could introduce moisture into the internal mechanism. Dry thoroughly and inspect the paint for any chips or flakes that may require touch-up.

3. Hook maintenance

Clean the hooks and catches with a cloth and degreaser. Apply a drop of light oil to the catch pivot to maintain smooth operation. Check the maximum opening of the hook and ensure there are no signs of it being permanently open.

4. Complete lubrication

Every 3 months or every 100 hours of use, apply a penetrating lubricant to the lever pivot points. Generously lubricate the chain by passing it completely through the mechanism several times to distribute the lubricant. Use only lubricants recommended for lifting equipment.

Precautions for Use

For your safety and the safety of your equipment:

Never exceed the rated capacity of 1100 lbsOverloading can cause catastrophic failure of the hoist or chain, resulting in load drops and serious injuries. Always consider the total weight, including lifting accessories.

Avoid sudden load shocksNever drop a load onto the hoist while it's under tension, and avoid jerky movements on the lever. These shocks can damage the brake mechanism and create stress points in the chain.

Inspect before each use- A damaged or worn hoist represents a deadly danger. Immediately remove from service any equipment showing cracks, deformations, or abnormal operation.

Ensure a secure anchor- The suspension point must support at least 4 times the capacity of the hoist. Check the strength of the support structure before each lift.

Keep the work area clearNever allow anyone to stand under a suspended load. Establish a safety perimeter around the lifting area.

Wear personal protective equipment- Work gloves, steel-toed safety shoes and safety glasses are mandatory when using the hoist.

Respect the lifting angles- For angled lifting, the effective capacity is considerably reduced. Consult the load reduction table in the manual for non-vertical lifts.

Storage Tips

Short-term storage (less than 30 days):

  • Hang the hoist in a dry place away from direct moisture
  • Ideal temperature between 5°C and 25°C
  • Wind the chain without excessive tension to avoid permanent deformation
  • Leave the hooks closed with the latches engaged.

Long-term storage (more than 30 days):

  • Clean and lubricate thoroughly before storage
  • Wrap the chain in an oiled cloth for corrosion protection
  • Place in a closed container or cover with a tarpaulin for dust protection
  • Inspect every 60 days and re-lubricate if necessary
  • Store at a controlled temperature between -10°C and +30°C

Winter storage in Quebec:

  • If stored in an unheated building, increase the lubrication frequency.
  • Apply a cold-resistant lubricant specifically designed for low temperatures.
  • Perform a complete inspection in the spring before resuming intensive use.
  • Allow the hoist to reach room temperature before use if it has been exposed to prolonged sub-zero temperatures.

Expected lifespan:With proper maintenance and correct use, this Jet hoist can last 15 to 20 years in daily professional use.

Warranty

Jet Guarantee Cover

Warranty period:

  • Jet 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase
  • Warranty covering parts and labor for manufacturing defects
  • Jet offers an additional 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
  • The warranty period begins on the date indicated on your purchase invoice.

What Is Covered

The Polar Jet and Industrial Equipment limited warranty covers:

Manufacturing defects- Any manufacturing defect affecting the normal operation of the hoist, including welding defects, incorrect assembly or materials not conforming to specifications.

Material defects- Defective or inferior quality materials used in the construction of the hoist, chain or hooks. Includes poor quality steel, inadequate heat treatments or faulty finishes.

Abnormal performance of the mechanism- Malfunction of the double ratchet brake, excessive chain slippage or blocking of the lifting mechanism under normal and compliant operating conditions.

Repair labor- Labor costs for repair or replacement of defective components during the warranty period, performed by an authorized Jet service center.

What Jet will do:

  • Free hoist repair with original replacement parts
  • Complete replacement of the hoist if repair is not possible or economical
  • Refund of the purchase price if a replacement is not available

Warranty Exclusions

The warranty does NOT cover:

Normal wear and tear- Gradual deterioration of components resulting from normal, regular use, including wear of the chain, hooks and paint coating.

Damage caused by overloading- Any damage resulting from lifting loads exceeding the nominal capacity of 1100 lb, including permanent deformation, chain breakage or structural failure.

Misuse or negligence- Damage caused by incorrect use, lack of regular maintenance, deliberate exposure to extreme conditions or unauthorized modifications to the hoist.

extreme environmental conditions- Damage caused by exposure to corrosive chemicals, immersion in salt water, temperatures exceeding specifications or explosive environments.

Accidents and collisions- Damage resulting from falls, violent impacts, crushing or any other accidental event not related to a manufacturing defect.

Unauthorized modifications- Any changes made to the hoist, including welding, drilling, replacement of components with non-Jet parts or alteration of the brake mechanism.

Complaint Procedure

How to file a claim in 4 steps:

Step 1: Documentation

Keep your original purchase invoice as proof of the purchase date. Take clear photos showing the defect or problem. Document the circumstances of use and maintenance history of the hoist.

Step 2: Contact

Polar Industrial Equipment Customer Service (30-day returns):

  • Telephone: 1-800-567-3206
  • E-mail:info@equipementpolar.com
  • Address: 3425 Wilfrid-Hamel Boulevard, Quebec
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Jet Canada Service (manufacturer's warranty):

Visit the Jet Tools website to locate the nearest authorized service center or contact Jet customer service for assistance.

Step 3: Evaluation and authorization

A qualified technician will examine your hoist to determine if the problem is covered by the warranty. You will receive a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number if the claim is approved. Shipping instructions will be provided for the safe return of the hoist.

Step 4: Repair or replacement

The hoist will be repaired with genuine Jet parts or replaced with an equivalent model, depending on the nature of the defect. Typical processing time is 10 to 15 business days, including round-trip shipping. You will be notified by email or phone as soon as the repair is complete.

Payment & Security

Payment methods

  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Diners Club
  • Discover
  • Google Pay
  • Mastercard
  • PayPal
  • Shop Pay
  • Visa

Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.

Our answers to your questions about the 1/2 Ton Jet Hoist

What is the exact lifting capacity of this hoist?

The certified rated capacity is 1/2 ton, which is exactly 1100 pounds or 500 kilograms in direct vertical lifting.

This capacity represents the maximum safe working load. The hoist has been factory-tested at 150% of this capacity (1650 lb) in accordance with ASME B30.21 standards.

Important: the effective capacity decreases when lifting at an angle. For example, a lift at 45 degrees reduces the capacity to about 70% of the rated capacity. Always refer to the load reduction chart in the user manual for non-vertical applications.

Can this lever hoist be used for horizontal pulling?

Yes, this Jet hoist is designed for vertical lifting, horizontal pulling, and angled applications up to 45 degrees.

For horizontal pulling, make sure that:

  • Both anchor points (suspension and load) are sufficiently strong
  • The pulling path is free of obstacles
  • The load can slide freely or is mounted on wheels
  • The chain angle remains as direct as possible

Horizontal pulling is commonly used for:

  • Positioning heavy machinery in a workshop
  • Aligning components during assembly
  • Moving equipment on rails or carts
  • Tensioning cables or chains during installations

What is the total lifting height available?

The lifting chain measures 5 feet in length, offering an effective lifting range of about 4.5 feet once the hoist is mounted.

This length is ideal for:

  • Lifting automotive engines from a cart into an engine bay
  • Installing equipment at standard working height
  • Typical workshop and garage applications
  • Common industrial maintenance tasks

If you need a greater lifting range, Jet offers this same model with 10-foot and 15-foot chains.

To determine the required length, measure the vertical distance between your suspension point and the lowest point where the load must be positioned, then add 1 foot of safety margin.

Is the Jet hoist compliant with Canadian safety standards?

Yes, this hoist meets all applicable safety standards in Canada and the United States.

Certifications and compliance:

  • ASME B30.21 (American standard for lever hoists)
  • OSHA 1910.184 (lifting equipment regulation)
  • Compliant with Canadian CSA requirements
  • Each unit comes with a load test certificate

The hoist is accepted for use in:

  • Commercial and residential construction sites
  • Regulated industrial facilities
  • Certified mechanical repair shops
  • Environments where CNESST inspections are required

Each hoist is individually factory-tested at 150% of its rated capacity and delivered with full compliance documentation.

How do I maintain the chain on my lever hoist?

Regular chain maintenance significantly extends the service life of your hoist.

Recommended maintenance routine:

Daily (if used intensively):

  • Wipe the chain with a dry cloth after use
  • Remove dust, dirt, and debris
  • Quick visual inspection for deformed links

Every 10 hours of use:

  • Apply light lubricant specific for lifting chains
  • Run the entire chain through the mechanism
  • Wipe off excess lubricant

Monthly:

  • Deep cleaning with a soft wire brush
  • Detailed inspection of each link
  • Full lubrication after cleaning

Signs the chain must be replaced:

  • Wear exceeding 10% of the original link diameter
  • Deformed, twisted, or cracked links
  • Elongation exceeding 5% of total length
  • Significant corrosion with deep pitting

Can I use this hoist to lift a car engine?

Yes, this 1/2-ton hoist is perfectly suitable for lifting most automobile engines.

Suitable engine applications:

  • 4-cylinder engines: 200–400 lb (perfect fit)
  • V6 engines: 350–500 lb (fits well)
  • Small V8 engines: 400–600 lb (suitable with safety margin)
  • Automatic transmissions: 100–250 lb (more than sufficient)

Important precautions:

Before lifting an engine, weigh it if possible or consult the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm the exact weight. Always use a proper engine lifting sling with multiple attachment points to balance the load.

Never attempt to lift large V8 engines (700+ lb) or heavy diesel engines with this 1/2-ton hoist.

For heavy engines, consider a 1-ton or larger hoist.

What is the difference between this hoist and an electric hoist?

Manual lever hoists and electric hoists serve different needs, each with its own advantages.

Advantages of the Jet manual hoist (this model):

Portability:

  • Lightweight (12.5 lb), easy to carry between job sites
  • No need for electrical power or extension cords
  • Usable in confined spaces or at height

Cost:

  • Purchase price 4 to 6 times lower than electric hoists
  • No electricity costs
  • Minimal and inexpensive maintenance

Reliability:

  • Simple construction with few components likely to fail
  • Works in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures
  • Exceptional lifespan with minimal maintenance

Advantages of electric hoists:

Speed and productivity:

  • Fast lifting and lowering for repetitive tasks
  • Reduced fatigue during long work sessions
  • Generally higher capacities (1 ton and more)

The choice depends on your usage. For occasional use, mobility, or tight budgets, the manual hoist is ideal. For intensive production with frequent repetitive lifting, an electric hoist becomes cost-effective.

Can this hoist withstand Quebec winter conditions?

Yes, this Jet hoist is specifically designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, including Quebec’s harsh winters.

Climatic specifications:

  • Operating temperature range: –40°C to +60°C
  • Forged steel construction resistant to extreme cold
  • Internal lubricants formulated for low temperatures
  • Galvanized chain resistant to de-icing salt

Precautions for winter use:

If the hoist has been stored in an unheated environment during winter, let it reach room temperature before intensive use. Very cold metal becomes more brittle and requires gentler handling.

Use a cold-resistant lubricant specifically designed for winter lifting equipment. Standard lubricants may thicken in cold weather and make the mechanism harder to operate.

Inspect more frequently during winter because de-icing salt and humidity accelerate corrosion. Wipe and lubricate the chain after each use in salty environments.

Thousands of Quebec professionals use this Jet hoist year-round on outdoor sites and in unheated workshops without issues.