I'm going to be installing stuff that would make it so much easier if I had elbow room when I'm underneath my car.I've gave it some thought.. for example, a car on four jack stands doesn't quite cut it for me. I have a garage with flat cement flooring but still seems way too dangerous.Is there a way of doing this with everyday tools/objects? Is there a device that I can buy?
put a plank of 2x12 treated-lumber underneath the jackstands for extra clearance.
rent a bay with a lift look in the local paper or yellow pages
it okorder / for a more economic solution if you use QUALITY jack stands, the kind with 4 legs and are welded steel, that are rated high enough to support the vehicle and are on solid ground and supporting the car on solid points (frame, rear axle, etc) you should be safe. people have been doing just that for years, just be sure to use 4 or more to support the entire car.
Four jack stands is actually the way to go if you don't have access to other lifting capability. Lift one corner at a time using a floor jack, blocking the other end of the car. If you have a front wheel drive car, start with the rear end, if you have a real wheel drive car, start at the front. Place the jackstands on the axles, or if you have independent suspension, place the jackstands on the frame. Once all four wheels are off the ground, you may want to add another layer of safety by putting something else under the car to catch it if it slips off a jackstand.
Jack stands (in good condition) are much stronger than you might think. Many small ones are rated at 2,000 - 3,000 pounds _each_. 6 Ton jack stands can be had for $25 each. The strength of the jack stands will not be a problem. However, the correct positioning of them is critical. You must place them under the vehicle in good contact with the vehicle's lift points. Don't over-extend the arms. Don't use a damaged jack stand. If you're going to leave the wheels on consider using drive up wheel ramps. A car can't fall off of wheel ramps, so long as your parking brake is in good working order. Finally, if you want to go really old school, you can dig a pit and park the car over the pit.
