Floor jack on a 77

[buckethead]

My '77 has side pipes which make it impossible to get a floor jack under the side of the frame. Is it OK to use the differential as a jacking point to lift the rear end. I have the spare tire cover etc removed so it's accessible.
Thanks,

Doug

 

[1979toy]

I made a set of plywood ramps to drive my sidepipe equiped '79 up on so it's high enough to get a jack under.

 

[cruisin-davey-g]

My '77 has side pipes which make it impossible to get a floor jack under the side of the frame. Is it OK to use the differential as a jacking point to lift the rear end. I have the spare tire cover etc removed so it's accessible.
Thanks,

Doug

Doug: I've used the differential area as a jacking point with no problems. I usually put a small piece of wood (like a 2X4) on the jack saddle & use a rag on top of that, so I won't scratch the chrome. The place I use is where the rear spring attaches to the rear carrier (center). I've done it this way for years. Also, if you're not comfortable jacking it that way, you can use a small bottle jack & lift your side frame enough to slide the floor jack under the side exhaust. I do it this way, even though I don't have side exhausts. My Vette sits so low that I have no choice but to do it this way. Same goes for jacking up the front end. I have to first raise one of the sides in order to get the jack under the front spoiler & frame cross member. Helps to have more than one floor jack handy. As for ramps, I'm not a real stout user of those. I'm always afraid of when you go to drive up on them, you run the chance of driving off the other end. This happened to a buddy of mine & I've got to tell 'ya, it wasn't a pretty site.


Dave:

 

[buckethead]

Thanks for the info Dave. I'm not a real fan of ramps either for the same reason you stated, plus you have to store them somewhere when not in use and my garage space is at a premium.

 

[cruisin-davey-g]

Thanks for the info Dave. I'm not a real fan of ramps either for the same reason you stated, plus you have to store them somewhere when not in use and my garage space is at a premium.

Doug: yeah, I know what 'ya mean about the garage. I could send you some pics of mine, but you'd have nightmares for along time. And your life would be changed forever! Take care


Dave: