High lift jacks - recommended height?

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I used a 42" Handy Man on my SOA with 35" Swampers.

You just need to strap the axle to the frame to stop it from drooping when you jack on the body.



For tire changes the factory bottle jack is going to be faster and safer 99% of the time. If your tires are to tall for the factory jack get a taller bottle jack for tire changes. (Note the bottle jack under the left side of the cruiser in the picture.)

Don't misunderstand I think the Hi-Lift is a safe and useful product when maintained and used correctly. Most people that complain they are unsafe simply don't take the time to learn how to care for or use one.
 
While you're waiting for more experienced advice I'll post something - After asking around here half said 48" and the rest said you might as well go 60" to be sure you have enough height. I got a 48" and I'm glad I did. I keep mine on the back floor and a 60" wouldn't fit. The 48" lays in there just right.
 
48" is a good size. I use it on my FJ Cruiser with 33s and my FJ55 with 35s. The last 12" of a 60" isn't rated as high as the rest of the 48".

I also carry a bottle jack for use when I can. A bottle jack is safer but can't be used for as many things.

Either way - if you haven't used a HiLift before get someone who knows what they are doing (who actually knows, not who just says they know) to show you how to use it. They are great tools but can be dangerous if not used correctly.
 
I got a 60in from work and had it mounted and the back of my 55. But I don't really like it outside in the elements, and I see all the posers that have them displayed as if they will ever use them. So I wanted to trade for a 48 and bolt it on the roll bar in the back, however could I just cut 12 inches off the track? Sorry for the hijack.
 
OK-here's my take. The 60 inch is like $10 more. Any part you don't like after a few outings, just cut off. Only need 56 inches? Cut 4 inches off. It's pretty hard to add if you need it.

Most routine chores like tire changes are better and more safely done with the OEM bottle jack-which by the way, is an awesome piece of kit. Stack a short piece of 4x6 under it if it isn't tall enough.

But for getting out of a jam or jacking the truck out of the boulders a long hi-lift can be invaluable.

Always keep your hi-lift inside. Only mount it on your truck when wheeling. Very lame to have your hi-lift on display in town.
 
OK-here's my take. The 60 inch is like $10 more. Any part you don't like after a few outings, just cut off. Only need 56 inches? Cut 4 inches off. It's pretty hard to add if you need it.

Most routine chores like tire changes are better and more safely done with the OEM bottle jack-which by the way, is an awesome piece of kit. Stack a short piece of 4x6 under it if it isn't tall enough.

But for getting out of a jam or jacking the truck out of the boulders a long hi-lift can be invaluable.

Always keep your hi-lift inside. Only mount it on your truck when wheeling. Very lame to have your hi-lift on display in town.

really on the last bit? :rolleyes: that's stupid. I keep mine on the roof rack all the time, you never know when you are gonna need it everyday.
 

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