How to Properly Lift My Truck

Use a jack or industrial-designed lift to raise the vehicle.

Trucks are lifted during maintenance to reach components that need to be adjusted or replaced. Lifting a truck usually involves crawling under the vehicle after. For this reason it is important to lift the truck properly. Certain methods should be followed for the sake of safety.

Things You'll Need

• Ramps, floor jack or industrial lift

Instructions

Ramps

1. Align ramps directly in front of the two front tires. Have them initially pushed snugly against the tires if possible.

2. Start the vehicle. Put one foot on the accelerator and one foot on the brake. Press the accelerator slowly to move up the ramps slightly, holding the brake to prevent over-shot. Brake as soon as the wheel hits the top. If the ramps are driven over too far there could be serious damage.

3. Apply wedges to the back wheels to prevent rolling.

Floor Jack

1. Place wedges under tires that will remain on the floor. This will serve as insurance that the truck will not roll.

2. Place a floor jack under a frame cross-member or identified points that are recommended by the manufacturer. These locations are the strongest sections of the frame to hold the truck's weight.

3. Jack the vehicle into the air at the decided point. It should be lifted only as high as necessary to crawl under or remove components. Lifting the vehicle too high is not recommended because the angle could make the jack slip.

Industrial Lift

1. Determine the weight of the truck. The lift should never lift more then its designated weight capacity.

2. Inspect lifting points of the truck for damage that could create unstable weight support. If unsure of the vehicle's lifting points, the "Vehicle Lifting Points -- Quick Reference Guide" can answer any questions.

3. Center the truck on the lift. The vehicle should be positioned so that it's center of gravity is between the supporting points of the lift and the vehicle. If this is not done correctly the vehicle might tip and slide. Take into account any components that are being added that are heavy.

4. Engage the locking points. Lift the vehicle a little higher than where the vehicle will be held. Slowly let the lift go down until there is an audible click at the locking point.

5. Take any and all secondary safety measures to be as cautious as possible. A vehicle crashing off a lift is dangerous. Secure restraints to vehicle movement. Double check all mechanisms before moving under the vehicle and ensure that the vehicle has no chance of tipping.

Tips & Warnings

• Put on necessary protective equipment such as protective glasses and a hard hat for protection against under-body debris and components.

• Use all methods on secure surfaces such as pavement and concrete. Soft surfaces are dangerous when lifting a vehicle's weight.

• A tech must be adequately trained to operate the industrial lift. Lifts can be dangerous if used improperly.

References

• I-Car Advantage: Lift Safety
• Jack Safety: How to jack your vehicle up safely!