Where to Put the Jack Stand on a Trans Am

Performing your own car maintenance can save you a good deal of money, and can give you a great sense of pride and accomplishment. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, one of the most popular vehicles on the road was the Pontiac Trans Am. With its straightforward design, the Trans Am was also a popular car for the home mechanic. Jack stands are an essential item for any mechanic who will be doing work under the vehicle, and knowing how to properly place your Trans Am's jack stands will help keep you safe while working on your car.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Car jack Jack stands Owner's manual

1. Drive your vehicle onto a flat surface. It is essential that you only set your car up on jack stands on a level surface to avoid shifting or tipping.

2. Pull the parking brake up on your vehicle. Make sure that the brake is fully engaged to keep your car from moving while you are working on it.

3. Slide the jack under the car, centering it under either the front axle of your car or the back axle, depending on which end of the car you need to support. You can also use jack points if your Trans Am has them. Jack the vehicle up high enough that you can easily place your jack stand under the car.

4. Place your jack stands directly behind the front wheels of your Trans Am if you are working on the front end. There should be a reinforced area behind the wheel that is safe for your stands. If you are working on the back end, there will be a small area just in front of the rear tires that is strong enough to place your jack stands.

5. Lower your jack slowly, making sure your car settles gently onto the jack stands. Your stands should sit level and should not bend or puncture the body of your Trans Am. If any movement occurs, raise the car back up and readjust the stands.

6. Set your hands on the bumper of your Trans Am and apply a gentle amount of pressure. The car should be resting firmly on the jack stands and should not move when you rock it. It is essential that your Trans Am be secured properly on your jack stands to keep you safe while you are underneath it.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure that you place the jack stands along a supporting part of your vehicle's frame. If you do not get them centered on a strong portion of your frame, then your body could bend or crumple.
• Do not work under your vehicle in wet or muddy weather. This can cause your jack stands to sink and might trap you under the car.

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