Build A Hydraulic Lifter

What can we use if we can't find two syringes or the plastic tubing called for in the materials?

If you can't find two syringes, use two identical plastic pipettes or turkey basters and replace the tubing with flexible aquarium tubing or a trimmed plastic straw sealed tightly with hot glue so the step that pushes tubing onto each syringe tip still forms a snug, water-tight connection.

Why doesn't the platform rise when I press the flat syringe and how do I fix it?

If the platform doesn't rise, check for air bubbles or leaks by repeating the step of dipping one syringe in water and pulling the plunger, then push and pull the plungers slowly to flush out trapped air and make sure the tubing ends are taped or pushed tightly onto the syringe tips.

How can I change the activity for different age groups to make it safe and educational?

For preschoolers have an adult pre-cut the cardboard base and tape the syringes in place while using larger 10–20 mL syringes so they can press easily, and for older kids challenge them to redesign the taped bottle cap platform and measure how far it rises per milliliter of water moved to explore mechanical advantage.

How can we improve or personalize the hydraulic lifter after finishing the basic build?

To enhance the lifter, attach a taller DIY platform from recycled cardboard or LEGO to the taped bottle cap, add colored water for visual flow, or connect two upright syringes in parallel as an extension to lift heavier lightweight objects placed on the platform.