Embodiments of a mechanical tool for railcar maintenance are disclosed, which are most suitable for handling heavy components during undercarriage operations. In one particular embodiment, the tool may include: a cantilever beam having a first end and a second end with a support element disposed between these two ends for pivotally attaching the cantilever beam to a supporting device; a first attachment element configured to grip a first railcar component; a safety latch mechanism, at the first end, for securing the first attachment element, including when the first railcar component is gripped by the first attachment element, and for preventing disengagement of the first attachment element unless the cantilever beam is in a substantially level position; and a weight element adjustably disposed between the support element and the second end as a counterbalance.