What type of "JACK" would you prefer on the trail?

Ok, those of you who have changed a tire or two on the trail, I know… throw away the factory ford scissor jack.. Would you pack along a bottle jack or a trolley jack, I think the bottle is easier to squeeze in under the frame or a-arm and it takes up less room in the bed of the truck. I don't think I want to try one of those "Off-Road Jacks" but tell me you thoughts?

I carry a bottle jack+jack stand combo unit as well as a HiLift jack.

Here's how I mounted the HiLift: http://www.fordraptorforum.com/f11/hilift-jack-mounted-bed-tons-o-pics-10102/

and here's the combo bottle jack and jack stand unit I carry as well: Powerbuilt® 3 Ton Jack & Jack Stand - 1160455 | Tractor Supply Company

Craftsman trolley jack with wheels removed and skid plate for the base..

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Or I have seen big wheel kit used...

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Here is some ideas:
http://www.kartek.com/Product/Tools/Jacks.html

-Greg

I really liked BigJ's HiLift setup at TRR. Out of the way and solid mount. Looking to do the same at some point.

I have the Craftsman floor jack with the wheels removed and a skid plate added.

I like the skid plate system best. I have used all 4 styles and it worked best. The big wheel is more of a PITA.

I think it really depends on what kind of terrain your on. Some of the nice floor jacks will work good on hard packed dirt or rocks but in mud defiantly the high lift jack with some sort of wide base. Here's how I mounted mine.



Dave

While I don't have a Hi-lift jack yet, I plan on getting one to have along with the floor jack I carry.
The Hi-lift has more functions, and can be used as a come-along to winch you out a few feet if stuck.

A question about the trolly jacks, can they lift the truck high enough to change a tire without using blocks? It does not seem to me that they have enough lift range to do that (with or without the wheels).

BigJ said:

I carry a bottle jack+jack stand combo unit as well as a HiLift jack.

Here's how I mounted the HiLift: http://www.fordraptorforum.com/f11/hilift-jack-mounted-bed-tons-o-pics-10102/

and here's the combo bottle jack and jack stand unit I carry as well: Powerbuilt® 3 Ton Jack & Jack Stand - 1160455 | Tractor Supply Company

Click to expand...

Big J,

I like that bottle jack and its cheap too, but my question...

Is 21" enough clearance to get the truck up in the air? What are you using as front/rear jack points?

I have a HiLift. Its fkin heavy as crap and does not seem stable when up in the air. I am very concerned about using it on uneven surfaces....which is pretty much all offroad situations! LOL