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What jack and stands do you use?

Dragster

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I've never done any work under my car before or anything that required me to jack it up (just stuff like cold air kits, etc.), so I don't own a jack or stands. What does everyone here use, and is there much difference in what's available out there? I have a slight phobia about working under the car, so obviously, safety is paramount. I'm tired of taking my car places to get stuff done because I'm picky and figure if you want it done right, do it yourself.

Thanks in advance for the help!
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Jeepwx03

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I use a harbor freight aluminum race jack and I have some of their 3 ton and 6 ton stands. I know they are not the best quality but they get the job done. If you did this type of work as a profession I would not suggest it, but I use them about once a month to once a quarter, no issues so far
 
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Dragster

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Thanks for the help! How much difference does the weight rating on the jack stands make? Is higher always better? Is there any reason NOT to get as high as possible (within a reasonable cost)? Thanks again!
 

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Thanks for the help! How much difference does the weight rating on the jack stands make? Is higher always better? Is there any reason NOT to get as high as possible (within a reasonable cost)? Thanks again!
Higher rated is better. The issue is that higher rated jack stands are usually taller so you have to jack the car up further to get them under. This becomes a problem with cars that sit lower to start with.

You also need to watch the ratings because most jack stands are rated as a pair. A few companies rate them individually. If it isn't clear assume the rating is for a pair.
 

H1 GT

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Herr_Poopschitz

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Don't skimp on a jack. The hydraulics on a nice old Craftsman jack from the early 80's gave up on me, so I bought a HF jack thinking there couldn't be much difference. I found the hydraulics while lowering to be a problem...it was like a switch...twist, twist, twist, then the car would practically fall. Always scared me and wasn't predictable...couldn't 'feel' it.

I like Arcans for the price...I have this one:
http://m.northerntool.com/shop/tool...i_sku=149201&gclid=CNqYt5-UsMQCFQGoaQodAXoAMg

...but if I had it to do again, I'd get the one my Dad has...
http://m.northerntool.com/shop/tool...ci_sku=24992&gclid=CJWTtYKVsMQCFYY9aQodBiwA8g

Had my old Mustang transported across the country and the semi driver complained about how low it was...said he'd never had as many problems w/ 911s and Lotuses ...Dad's jack rolls right under it w/o having to drive onto boards or anything.

That said, I have no issues using HF stands.
 

soon2be

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I've never done any work under my car before or anything that required me to jack it up (just stuff like cold air kits, etc.), so I don't own a jack or stands. What does everyone here use, and is there much difference in what's available out there? I have a slight phobia about working under the car, so obviously, safety is paramount. I'm tired of taking my car places to get stuff done because I'm picky and figure if you want it done right, do it yourself.

Thanks in advance for the help!
I know exactly what you mean. I am also in the same situation.

I was looking at this craftsman kit http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-3-ton-floor-jack-stands-and/p-00950188000P?prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1 kit.

But after reading this thread i am starting to second guess myself...anyone have experience with this set?
 

IvanCRF

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Craftsman 3 ton! I have to drive onto 2''x10'' boards beforehand to clear though!
 

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JimmyTwoTimes

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Anthony

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I use home made wood wheel blocks. I also have 5-6 sets of different alum and steel stands
 

L8APEX

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How low? I have a low profile jack:



And it doesn't even fit under my car, I have to drive up on a few boards first. Gonna get another lower profile jack soon.
I am not sure how low exactly. But the jack worked under a Viper.
 

xfyre101

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Don't skimp on a jack. The hydraulics on a nice old Craftsman jack from the early 80's gave up on me, so I bought a HF jack thinking there couldn't be much difference. I found the hydraulics while lowering to be a problem...it was like a switch...twist, twist, twist, then the car would practically fall. Always scared me and wasn't predictable...couldn't 'feel' it.

I like Arcans for the price...I have this one:
http://m.northerntool.com/shop/tool...i_sku=149201&gclid=CNqYt5-UsMQCFQGoaQodAXoAMg

...but if I had it to do again, I'd get the one my Dad has...
http://m.northerntool.com/shop/tool...ci_sku=24992&gclid=CJWTtYKVsMQCFYY9aQodBiwA8g

Had my old Mustang transported across the country and the semi driver complained about how low it was...said he'd never had as many problems w/ 911s and Lotuses ...Dad's jack rolls right under it w/o having to drive onto boards or anything.

That said, I have no issues using HF stands.
is it just me? those links don't go to anything in perticular, just home page.
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