Emergency jack? Bottle jack won't cut it anymore...

[kythri]

I'm in a quandary...

I've never had to utilize my spare tire in any kind of emergency.

I removed the factory full-size spare when I put 31's on my truck. After I lifted it and put 33's on it, I started carrying a full-size spare again in my roof-rack.

The other day, when tracking down the source of a rattle, I opened the compartment where the jack is stored, and this whole issue popped into my head.

I've removed the factory bottle jack - no use dragging it around if I can't use it...

What do I use, though?

I was thinking along the lines of a Hi-Lift jack, and I know I can get a mount to attach/lock it to my roof rack, so transport isn't an issue, but using it is.

What do you folks use as a jack point? I've still got the stock bumpers on it, and jacking up the front using that seems unwise.

 

[gijoecam]

The OEM jack won't reach? Did you try it out?

What's cheaper? A jack big enough to reach the axle, or a AAA membership?

Can't really help out with alternative ideas, but tuning in anyways.

 

[techieman33]

The OEM jack won't reach? Did you try it out?

What's cheaper? A jack big enough to reach the axle, or a AAA membership?

Can't really help out with alternative ideas, but tuning in anyways.

A stock jack won't come close to reaching a truck on 33's. A high lift is an option, i'm not sure on jacking points though. You could also probably find a bigger bottle jack that would reach, or the least favorable option carry a full size shop jack. But that would be a whole lot of weight and bulk to carry around for just emergencies. Some kind of roadside assistance is a good option too, check with your insurance company they may offer something. I'm still on my parents all state plan, and I think it costs about $40 every 6 months and covers all 4 vehicles on the plan.

 

[matemorh]

Why not weld something to your actual stock jack?!?!??!?
Just an idea.

 

[Blee1099]

Get a bigger bottle jack. I carried one that could reach 18" in lift, I placed it right under the spring perch/bottom shock mount.

 

[techieman33]

Why not weld something to your actual stock jack?!?!??!?
Just an idea.

the factory bottle jack is scary enough without welding an extension on it. Welding onto it would be adding a weak point to an already weak jack. Also with all the extra length it would be prone to tipping over since the base isn't very big. Buying a larger $30 bottle jack is a much easier and safer solution.

 

[DeRocha]

Get a bigger bottle jack. I carried one that could reach 18" in lift, I placed it right under the spring perch/bottom shock mount.

Ditto. I carry a larger bottle jack and it lifts my X on 33s just fine...

 

[kythri]

I've got an Allstate Motor Club membership, so if I bust on the highway, they can drag someone out to change it, no problem.

I'm mildly concerned if I happen to pop off-road, or up in the mountains somewhere...

I'll take a look at a bigger bottle-jack, see what I can find there, at least until I get new bumpers.

Thanks for the suggestions, all!! You rock!

 

[Ray Lobato]

Well, when using a Hi-Lift jack, I use the rock sliders on the side of the truck, the winch mount in front, or the tire carrier rear bumper in back, but I also have to use a chain to wrap around the axle and frame so it will pick up the tire without having the jack the truck up a mile before the wheel will come off the ground, in the back.
You really are better off buying a larger bottle jack and a good thick piece of wood the put the bottle jack on. Just my $0.02

 

[RangerX]

I run 37s, and still use the stock jack. I just also carry a small chunk of 6X8 to use as a base. Works fine.
A hilift is not ideal to change a tire. I save mine for offroad stucks.