Jacks and Jack Stands

How do I safely support a vehicle on jack stands?

Lift at the maker's specified points on a hard, level surface, set stands rated for the load at solid support points, lower the vehicle onto them, and test stability before going underneath.

What size floor jack and jack stands do I need?

Short answer: Choose a jack and stands rated comfortably above the weight you will lift at one end, with enough lift height for your vehicles and a low enough profile to get under them.

Capacity ratings matter, but so does how you use them. A jack lifts one end or corner of a vehicle, not the whole vehicle, but give yourself plenty of margin above the expected load. Stands are rated as a pair or individually depending on the maker, so read the label carefully.

Lift height and profile are the next concerns. Trucks and SUVs need taller lift height and taller stands. Low cars need a low-profile jack that fits under the lifting point without damaging body panels. A longer jack reaches central lifting points more easily.

Look for stands with a secure locking mechanism and a broad base. Inspect jacks for leaks, bent parts and smooth operation, and never exceed rated capacity. Even the right equipment needs a hard, level surface and correct lifting points to be safe.

When do I need an under-hoist stand?

Short answer: Use an under-hoist stand when removing heavy components like exhausts, transmissions, differentials or suspension parts, because the vehicle's balance on the lift can change and parts need support.

When heavy components come off a vehicle on a lift, the center of gravity changes. The vehicle could shift or tip. An under-hoist stand supports the vehicle or component as parts are removed.

Stands also hold up exhausts or drivetrain parts during removal and installation, freeing your hands. Choose a stand rated for the load and set its height properly.

Position stands on solid points as service information suggests. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a stand that is not rated for the job, and follow the lift maker's safety instructions.

How do I position lift arms correctly?

Short answer: Use the lift points listed by the vehicle maker or lift point guides, set the arms so the vehicle is balanced, raise it slightly to check stability, and lock the arms before lifting fully.

Each vehicle has specific lifting points designed to carry its weight. Using the wrong points can damage the vehicle or cause it to slip. Lift point guides and service information show the correct locations.

Place the arm pads on the points, adjust height adapters as needed, and center the vehicle's weight between the columns. Raise the vehicle a short distance and check for stability before going higher.

Engage the lift's safety locks before working underneath. Never exceed the lift's rated capacity. Follow the lift maker's inspection and training requirements, and keep the area clear of people while raising or lowering.

How do I choose the right jack stands?

Short answer: Choose stands rated for the vehicle's weight with margin, with a stable base and locking mechanism, and use them in pairs on solid, level ground at the maker's support points.

Jack stands are rated by the weight they can support, usually per pair. Heavy trucks need higher-rated stands. Taller stands help when working on lifted trucks, and geared or ratcheting designs make height adjustment easier.

Check that the locking pin or ratchet engages fully. Inspect stands regularly for bent legs, cracks or worn ratchets, and retire damaged stands.

Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Place stands under support points the vehicle maker specifies, on solid ground, and gently test stability before working underneath.

How do I choose a bottle jack?

Short answer: Choose a bottle jack rated above the load you will lift, with a minimum height that fits under your lift points, and remember it is only for lifting, never for holding a load.

Bottle jacks are compact and strong, used for trucks and equipment. Air/hydraulic models speed up lifting in shops with compressed air.

Check minimum and maximum height against your vehicles. Choose a capacity well above the load.

Inspect jacks regularly for oil leaks, bent parts or a ram that will not hold. Remove a damaged jack from service and repair or replace it. Store the jack with the ram fully lowered to protect it from rust and damage.

Use the jack on solid level ground at approved lift points. Never work under a load held only by a jack; support it with rated stands. Wear safety glasses and keep hands clear.

Why use an aluminum floor jack?

Short answer: Aluminum floor jacks are lighter than steel jacks of similar capacity, which makes them easier to move and carry for track days, road service and mobile work.

Lighter jacks are easier to move around the shop and carry for mobile work or track days. Aluminum jacks offer this weight savings.

Check capacity, lifting range and low-profile clearance against your vehicles.

Compare saddle size and handle length too, since these affect stability and ease of use. Inspect the jack regularly for leaks and damage, and remove it from service if it does not hold a load. Store it with the arm fully lowered.

Use rated jack stands to support the vehicle after lifting. Use the jack on solid level ground, at approved lift points, and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.