Abstract: A crank mechanism incorporates a ratchet driver post coupled with a conventional, manually operated crank handle. The post is configured, possibly relying upon biasing members, pins, or sleeves, to ensure the ratchet driver may be operated without unwanted rotation of the handle. A number of iterations provide for multiple positions of the handle itself so as to speed up the early stages of jack actuation and then allow for repositioning in the later stages to maximize the user's leverage. Further still, a disengagement driver gear can be employed, and the invention may incorporate any combination of these features to improve operation and extension/retraction of the jack.