Author Topic: optimum jack stand points for front end  (Read 7667 times)

Offline p7387

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optimum jack stand points for front end
« on: September 01, 2011, 12:38:49 pm »
i plan on replacing the front rotors,calipers etc. and doing any other frond work that i can safely do myself while the car is up.
this is a hobby project so i will not complete it in one day. i was planning on setting the front end up on concrete blocks.

what are the best/safest placement points? the frame at the rear of the front tires, or the frame up front near the bumper?
also if i get around to doing the rear could i place the concrete blocks under the rear axle or is a better place advised?

btw-87 2wd short fleet/305

thanks

Offline beastie_3

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #1 on: September 01, 2011, 01:13:18 pm »
I always use the frame under the doors right before it starts to bend up. I would NOT use concrete blocks unless they are solid blocks, and even then I wouldn't use them because I have jack stands. Be sure to chock the rear wheels too.

I highly recommend using jack stands.

Offline 69byrd

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #2 on: September 01, 2011, 01:17:07 pm »
I would NOT use concrete blocks unless they are solid blocks, and even then I wouldn't use them because I have jack stands. 

I highly recommend using jack stands.

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Offline p7387

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #3 on: September 01, 2011, 02:10:31 pm »
thanks guys

the only area i have to do the work is on a flat earth surface, i figured the conc block would offer a wide enough footprint for stability.
i only used one in the position where it's compressive strength would be the highest and than used solid wood to fill the gap.

i need to invest in a good set of stands, any brand recommendations?

thanks.ecru lace bodice

Offline bigchevyc30

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #4 on: September 01, 2011, 03:17:56 pm »
i got the cheap ones from walmart and they hold mt duallys front end really well. they might sink in the ground a little but they work great. they are 2 ton jack stands
1980 c-30 dually R.I.P
1989 R2500 Sub 350/sm465
1984 k10 sub 6.2/700r4

Offline Da67goatman

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #5 on: September 01, 2011, 03:19:17 pm »
I got the 6 ton ones from harbor freight they are nice and tall for the bigger trucks, although they also sell 3 ton stands for those that don't need the extra height.
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Offline thirsty

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #6 on: September 01, 2011, 03:33:59 pm »
i figured the conc block would offer a wide enough footprint for stability.
i only used one in the position where it's compressive strength would be the highest and than used solid wood to fill the gap.

Don't use the blocks either way. I had a flat on a construction site with a lifted truck and used one once. It shattered. I knew better but it was the only thing I had at the time. Dropped my truck on the front end. Lucky I didn't get hurt out of the deal. Be safe and work on your truck after you get the right jackstands.
Real trucks are built, not bought Build thread

Give me a long enough lever and a place to stand, and I shall move the earth or break this bolt...Whatever, just hold my beer!

Offline beastie_3

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #7 on: September 01, 2011, 05:08:33 pm »
Since youre working on dirt, I would go to a metal or welding shop and see if they have any metal left over in their junk pile and see if they can cut you some squares for the bottom of the jack stands. Maybe have them weld some vertical tabs so the stands dont slide off the metal plates. Obviously buy the stands first. On a 2wd truck, i dont see a real need for the bigger stands because your truck isnt tall. 3 ton should be tall enough.

Offline bigchevyc30

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #8 on: September 01, 2011, 06:11:15 pm »
im probaly going to have to lok at the 3 ton since my 2 ton ones are almost maxed out in the rear of my dually front they are fine
1980 c-30 dually R.I.P
1989 R2500 Sub 350/sm465
1984 k10 sub 6.2/700r4

Offline VileZambonie

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #9 on: September 01, 2011, 06:46:22 pm »
Use Jack stands under the frame rails. Do not use concrete or tree stumps
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Offline beastie_3

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Re: optimum jack stand points for front end
« Reply #10 on: September 01, 2011, 06:56:20 pm »
Also, when shopping for stands, bring a tape so you can see how high and low they extend.