If you’re a car enthusiast or a DIY mechanic, you know that jack stands are an essential tool for safely lifting your vehicle off the ground. But if you’re not familiar with how to use them properly, you could be putting yourself and your car at risk. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use jack stands safely and effectively.
First, you need to find a suitable location to place your jack stands. The ground should be level and firm, and you should have enough space to work comfortably. Once you’ve found a suitable location, place the jack stands under the designated lift points on your vehicle. Make sure that the jack stands are stable and that they are supporting the weight of the vehicle. Finally, lower the vehicle onto the jack stands and remove the jack.
When using jack stands, there are some important safety precautions to keep in mind. Always engage the parking brake before lifting your vehicle, and never crawl under a vehicle that is supported only by jack stands. If you need to work under the vehicle, use a creeper or a set of ramps to provide additional support. Finally, never work on a vehicle that is supported only by one jack stand. Always use at least two jack stands, and make sure that they are properly positioned and stable.
Securing the Vehicle
1. Engage the Parking Brake
Set the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling while jacking it up.
2. Chock the Wheels
Place wheel chocks behind the wheels on the side opposite the jack points. This prevents the vehicle from moving if the jack slips.
3. Gather Necessary Tools
You will need a jack, jack stands, safety glasses, and gloves.
4. Position the Jack
Locate the designated jack points on the vehicle’s frame. Carefully position the jack under one of the jack points.
5. Jack the Vehicle
Slowly pump the jack to raise the vehicle. Avoid raising it too high initially.
6. Place Jack Stands
Once the vehicle is raised slightly, place jack stands next to the jack. Position them at the corresponding jack points on the opposite side of the vehicle.
7. Lower the Vehicle
Carefully lower the jack until the jack stands are supporting most of the vehicle’s weight. Remove the jack completely.
8. Cross-Tighten the Jack Stands
Use a wrench to tighten the jack stands on both sides of the vehicle until they are snug. Cross-tightening prevents them from slipping or loosening over time.
Tips for Cross-Tightening Jack Stands:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Tighten one jack stand slightly, then move to the opposite side. |
| 2 | Tighten the opposite jack stand slightly, then return to the first one. |
| 3 | Repeat steps 1 and 2 until both jack stands are securely tightened. |
How to Use Jack Stands Safely and Effectively
Jack stands are essential tools for lifting and supporting your vehicle while performing repairs or maintenance. Using them properly ensures a safe and stable work environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat, firm, and stable surface.
- Engage the Parking Brake: Set the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Chock the Opposite Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels diagonally opposite to the jack stands to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Locate the Designated Jack Points: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to identify the designated jack points, which are typically reinforced areas designed for lifting.
- Position the Jack: Place the jack at the designated jack point and pump it to raise the vehicle until it is slightly off the ground.
- Secure the Jack Stand: Place the jack stand under the frame of the vehicle, adjacent to the jack point. Raise the jack stand until it firmly supports the vehicle’s weight.
- Lower the Jack: Slowly lower the jack to transfer the vehicle’s weight to the jack stand.
- Repeat on Other Side: If necessary, lift and support the vehicle on the other side using the same procedures.
- Test Stability: After installing all jack stands, gently shake the vehicle to check for stability. If it moves, tighten the jack stands or adjust their positions.
- Lower the Vehicle: Once finished, slowly lower the jack to relieve the weight from the jack stands. Remove the jack stands and chocks.
People Also Ask About How to Use Jack Stands
How high should I lift my car with jack stands?
The ideal height depends on the task you are performing. For general maintenance, lift the vehicle high enough to provide comfortable working space, but not so high that it becomes unstable.
Can I leave my car on jack stands overnight?
It is not recommended to leave your car on jack stands for extended periods. The weight of the vehicle can put strain on the jack stands, potentially leading to failure. If you need to leave the vehicle elevated, use jack stands designed for long-term use.
What are the safety precautions for using jack stands?
Always follow these safety precautions for proper jack stand usage:
- Use high-quality, trusted jack stands with a weight capacity exceeding your vehicle’s weight.
- Double-check that jack stands are properly seated and secure before placing any weight on them.
- Use at least three jack stands to support your vehicle.
- Never work under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack.
- Keep children and pets away from the area when using jack stands.
