Jack and jack stands; what to buy

[Alpinewhite]

Hi All,

I want to buy safe jack and jack stands. Which one would you guys recomend?

Thanks
Arun

[Blitzkrieg Bob]

two cinder blocks and a old toyota scissors jack.

Most of the sets offered at the stores are good enough for the weekend mechanic.

Just keep in mind the car is @ 3,600lbs, so buy accordingly.

[Alexlind123]

Dont forget wheel chocks for when jacking the rear.

[632 Regal]

also remember to score a few feet of 2x8 to entend the ramp so you dont bottom out trying to drive up it.

[liquidtiger720]

drive up what jeff? hahaha

I think jeff's comment is for those who prefer ramps.

[Alexlind123]

You obviously cant use ramps for the majority of repairs and maintainence on your car.

[shogun]

I usually use a combination of ramps and stands. Ramps are more solid, I have to consider that we often have earthquakes here in Japan.
I had one such experience when I was under the car and suddenly an earthquake started. Quite dangerous.

[Alexlind123]

I have used ramps to support the wheels, but i have never driven up onto them.

[SRR2]

Yipes. That's the kind of thing you never think of until it's too late. No matter how 'safe' jackstands are, it still creeps me out every time I work under a car on stands. Nothing to do with earthquakes though, we don't get those here, but I always think the base of the stands should be about four times wider than it is.

[632 Regal]

I drive up all the time, feel safe enough to stay there all day. I rigged a safety deal with the drive up boards and bolts dropped into drilled holes.
I have used ramps to support the wheels, but i have never driven up onto them.
http://www.bimmer.info/~regal632/safetyr%20ramp.jpg
http://www.bimmer.info/~regal632/safety%20ramp%20rear.JPG