[378]

I need a new set of jack stands. What is recommended? (Lifting range in inches and capacity) I've got and old pair that are not tall enough.

 

[usmc xterra]

Heck I had to buy a new pair that was short enough so there goes my advice. MC

 

[Muzikman]

I have a few pairs of 6 ton Craftsman stands. It's what I have always used. They are plenty tall enough.

 

[378]

How about lifting range? 6 ton I am sure is more than adequate from a capacity standpoint. Haven't actually measured the height needed, but w/ my floor jack raising the frame, I have to add a brick to the saddle to get the tires off the ground far enough to pull the wheel off. I figure another 6-12" to make room to move around under the truck w/o banging the coconut on something.

 

[B Slater]

Harbor Freight actually has a pretty decent set for about $60 that work.

 

[usmc xterra]

Harbor Freight actually has a pretty decent set for about $60 that work.

Did you mean $6? Man for $60 I bought 9 bottle jacks there.
I also got the aluminum Racing jack, 6 pumps to the top for $120.
MC

 

[Muzikman]

Are you talking front or rear tires? The trick for the rear is to put a ratchet strap around the axle and rear frame crossmember and strap it tight before lifting it.

 

[378]

I was lifting the whole side of the truck to rotate tires. Both tires off the ground at once. About a 1 1/2" clearance. Not much wiggle room: wheels have to get pulled straight out and replaced same way. I'll put a ratchet strap on the shopping list next trip to Pep Boys. Thanks for the tip.

 

[Duck]

By far, the bast place to buy jack stands and jacks is Costco.
Harbor Frieght has great prices, but their quality sucks. Cheap tools are one thing, but having a jack fail while you're under the truck is no laughing matter. Get quality-made equipment when you're lifting your truck.
My experience with Costco has been stellar. Great equipment at resonable prices.

 

[378]

Finally went out and measured: from the ground to the bottom of my frame is 12". I've decided to get these from Northern Tools: http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200305227_200305227
They are six ton capacity which is more than enough, but the three ton ones height range is only 10.9-16.4 inches while the six ton height range is 14.9-23.5 inches. I figure with the frame 12" from the ground, 16" won't give much room to work, and that is fully extended. These stands also have a security pin to prevent accidently letting the stand down. Unfortunately, I drove all the way out to Northern and they were out of them. Next time I'll call ahead. $37/pair or $25/pair if you don't want the extra locking pin.