The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk What type of wheel jack

I have an original truck jack but feel a bit leery using it especially on a slope. Considered a small hydraulic jack (same as the big ones on wheels) and am wondering if anyone has another idea. I have a jack from my soon to be scrapped 81 Malibu and was considering welding a u-shaped bracket on it which would straddle the springs. Any thoughts?

I carry (from truck to truck) a Sears Craftsman hydraulic floor jack with stands (in a carrying case). I do not know if they still sell it.

I know that they did have them but can no longer find them. I have seen the aluminum "NASCAR" jacks but they are pricey.

That is what I am looking for. And the case is a bonus too!
Thanks

Auto Zone and Advance Auto use to have them, in the case, on sale but haven't seen them in the case for a while. Need to find one close by or the shipping will eat you up....

I see Amazon has a small 2 ton unit without the case for about $35.00 including shipping.

WalMart, Target and most any Flaps will have one in a case for easy storage. Very popular when the Manufacturers stopped putting jacks in the new cars.

When did manufacturers stop putting jacks in new cars???
There is a jack under the rear seat in my extended cab.

dg

I do what Tim does. One flat tire on the side of I-65 with the wife & kid was enough to know I'd rather make space for a real jack than fool with what's in the vehicle just to meet regulations.

Brad

I checked the "comments" on the Amazon mini 2 ton jack and although most said it was suitable they commented that if it was used on a slope like the side of the road it may be unstable and in some cases twisted. Furthermore the small wheels would dig into the ground and although the manufacture advertises it as a 2 ton jack it has trouble lifting the vehicle if its bigger than a light one. The only reason I want one is to change a flat if need be and inevitably it would mean the truck would be on a side of the road slope.

You would have to be careful with any jack being used when the vehicle is on a slope.

Advice from the Gecko.
"Step-by-step guide: . .
.
2. If you have a choice, pull as far off the road as possible and on the flattest and firmest ground you see. The more level and solid the ground, the better.

3.Call for help if you are in an emergency lane or center lane on a main street or highway. It is not safe for you to work on the vehicle unless you are well off the road with plenty of room to work. If your only option is a soft surface, do not attempt to jack up your vehicle as this can pose major safety concerns. Call for help."

Agree. That is all common sense. In fact I would rather run on a flat and ruin it rather than take a chance and change it in a dangerous situation.
I mostly drive on one lane (each direction) roads as freeways are rare in this area. I also carry a safety vest which I would wear if I was changing a tire.
I actually bought it to wear cycling but feel it is more like a target given some of the "asleep at the switch" drivers here!

Me too.
I also carry one of those old-style screw jacks that can act as a jack stand if necessary.

This kind.

It came with a '69 Ferd half-ton and I kept it.

I put a piece of 18"x18", 3/4" plywood under it for more stability.

I have a similar unit but its a bottle jack. Bought it initially for the truck but still afraid to use it. The plywood base is an excellent idea.

Forgot to mention, the plywood also acts as a "load spreader", especially on soft ground.

Denny, guess I should have said "Safe Jack"! I wouldn't trust a jack furnished by a car maker now days for sure.

Maybe if you get a flat, just call THE GUY! muahahaha!

That is my Plan A. I have free road service and free 125 mile trailer tow in my insurance policy.