CHOCKS, ALWAYS

I want one those garden tractor lifts.
But then, it owns its real estate.

Dang thing probably last lifetime outside.
But I have treated timbers

More good info.........

I don't completely trust jack stands , so I use them in combination with timber blocks when I'm underneath the vechile

I have a stack of 5”x 7”x 10” oak blocks in the garage. Also a bunch of 2”x 8” x 10” oak boards, and a lot of thick wooden wedges from the mine.

Jack stands on cement is the only way to go. Buy a good set. I shack the $$$%$ out of my truck once they are on the jack stands. JMO

Absolutely appreciate everyone’s input on this topic.

I use jack stands...and as Yessir stated, always let weight down on to them so the lever cant be pulled.

I'm totally down with that. Good work practice. Having 2 forms of safety measures is better than one.


foxkidd44 ,
Some more thoughts -

One of my practices is to set the vehicle up with all the windows down , hood latch popped or hood open , keys left in the ignition.
The reason being is you don't want to open the doors or get into the vehicle if at all possible. Get anything you need out of the car before you jack it up. Opening the doors while lifted is bad for the structure of the car. Fun fact , convertible cars weigh just slightly more than a hardtop. The convertible has extra steel under the floor to make up for the loss of strength from the roof.

Look up in your owner's manual or look online for the proper 'lifting points' of your vehicle. A lot of times they are on the running boards/rocker panel. Some manufacturers even have little dimples or notches to help you locate them. This is the spots you would use with the manufacturer supplied jack. Generally , but not always is the preferred place to put jack stands too. The manufacturer knows exactly the center of gravity of your car and the safest way to lift it.

Careful removing large heavy parts. This can throw off the center of gravity quickly. Plan ahead , if you know you have to remove something very heavy , use additional jack stands or supports that will balance the change in weight.

I know you may not have access to jack stands like me , but cheap and safe alternative -

Find a pair or 4 BIG firewood rounds. Tough part is finding ones exactly the same height , at the proper level you want to work at , having your own chainsaw and being able to cut them exactly is a huge help. Look for a good solid wood like Oak. Green wood preferred over seasoned. The biggest diameter ones you can handle. Big diameter ones hold lots more weight , are resistant to moving , very hard to split.

Some interesting stuff I did not know!!
The convertible weight being more than a hardtop.

I will definitely use your suggestion on cutting some firewood rounds,, I do own a chainsaw.
I have access to oak,, big ol chunks,,

I prefer jack stands, has anyone tried the plastic blocks that tie together, they seem pretty sturdy.

I would never use concrete blocks they are to brittle . If I dont have jack stands i always have hard wood blocks.

I say use the concrete blocks. What is the worst thing that can happen? Live life on the edge.

Iam undah cars every day...and work by myself.

I use Jack stands ..AND I put my floor jack up...where iam at under the car ...

As a back up ....safety type of thing.