Using Jack Stands Safely

Pull the jack out from underneath your vehicle.

Using jack stands safely.

Typically you ll see jack stands rated at 3 tons up through 20 tons. This type of jack stand is the preferred stand for heavy vehicles because it is the strongest and most reliable stand to use in this application. Which is why we re here. In that position you need to take all the precautions you can and using jack stands are one of the simplest but also highly effective measures you can take to keep safe.

While ratchet type jack stands are safe enough pin type stands are almost indestructible since the locking pin makes it impossible for the supporting bar to slip through the base. Ensure the jack stands are vertical and not resting. Gently shake the vehicle to confirm it is secure. Park on a solid surface.

Make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat concrete surface and that the conditions of the floor on which you will be using the jack stands is solid and free of debris. Jack stands may be the most overlooked safety equipment items in a diy garage. Jack stand load ratings when looking for jack stands their weight rating is the most important factor to consider. Use a pair of jack stands every time you lift a vehicle and you will vastly decrease the likelihood of becoming a victim of a falling vehicle.

The jack stand will support the weight on the side of your vehicle so you can safely work underneath it. A tilted jack stand may collapse as it is not designed to hold a load at an angle. Jack stands do not lift vehicles. Instead they provide a safe fixed support for a raised vehicle.

A mercedes 190e of 1989 93 vintage is safely and securely supported with maximum stability thanks to jack stands at each corner. Once your car passes the shake test it is safe to work on your car. Frankly you should never work beneath your car without this key piece of safety equipment. Once the vehicle is chocked the jack is located safely and the vehicle is lifted it s time to place the jack stands at the indicated points.

Check that all jack stands are planted flat on the ground and that they don t move when you shake the car.