Off Roading Hi-Lift Jack

[HDR]

Does anyone use them? I'm going to be in some sand and thought it might be a good idea to get one. Right now I have a bottle jack but the hi-lift seems more versatile.

 

[jhenderson]

It's one of the best tools in my truck. It's a jack and a come- along and damned handy. It can also be dangerous. It can be tippy at higher lift and the foot needs to be very secure to prevent the jack from shooting out at the worst possible time and hitting you on the way. My 2 cents.

 

[Schumacher]

I use mine quite a bit off-road. Your truck needs flat bottom bumpers or use the bumper adapter. Stay away from the stamped steel model.

 

[Regcabguy]

With tin can bumpers,what would you use for jacking pts? I had one for my '64 F-250,but that year had decent bumpers.

 

[milehiscott]

If you're going to be in sand, there is an extra wide foot/ base you can get to give it a bigger footprint and not sink as deep. It is one of the most handy tools ever. It is also good for removing tree stumps, fence posts, spreading door jams... ... ... ...
Cabguy, on my '01, I aim for . 25 of the bumper between the attachment points for the bumper. Not sure about the newer ones.

 

[Grizzly]

A Hi-Lift Jack is a great tool. I wouldn't go off road without mine, which I purchased new 30 some years ago for $17. They're $60/ $70 now. Always keep it clean and oiled.

 

[JLeake]

Hi Lift jacks are great, if you pay attention. The handle can in some situations come back at you with significant force and velocity. Just always stand clear, and do not get your head in the plane the handle is working in. They are a really versatile tool, a good sized block of wood helps to provide a base in sand or soft soil, been there done that and buried the jack 3 feet in clay. Like Grizzly said, keep them clean and oiled. Not for the novice.

 

[pwerwagn]

With tin can bumpers,what would you use for jacking pts? I had one for my '64 F-250,but that year had decent bumpers.

Ive jacked my 04 off the ground with my hi lifts numerous times. The 3rd gen bumpers are stronger than they look for sure.



I carry 2 in my truck, a 60" and a 48". One on each bedside. I also have a 48" for the wifes jeep, and another 60" for our ranger race truck. They are super handy tools.

 

[AH64ID]

I haven't used mine in years, but it's always in my truck.

You can get adapters that will hook to your wheels.

 

[NIsaacs]

I haven't used mine in years





Ya better have some WD40 then They are an awesome tool, but a pain if they get rusty or dirty, and they always are if carried or stored outside in the weather.



Nick

 

[AH64ID]

Yeah, I go thru it every so often to check functionality. Generally when I change my toolbox from winter to summer config.

 

[Grizzly]

I've used my Hi-Lift jack, with a small chain, many times for pulling out fence post in concrete and small tree stumps. Very handy tool to have.

There are many uses for a Hi-Lift Jack.

 

[pwerwagn]

Just buy one of those neporene covers for the mechanical portion of the jack... I have one on the ones of mine that are kept outside, and they always works when I need them. I also use them probably 1-2x a month as well... so maybe that helps keep them functional.



Even if they do get jammed up, you can still use them by hand. You can easily use your fingers to operate the pins if need be.

 

[Bob4x4]

The wheel hook adapter comes in very handy if your truck has a lot of droop

 

[CRuth]

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[MattandLana]

Re them being tippy, one of the recognized recovery companies here in Australia says that's a legitimate bog recovery method: take the truck up to full height on the jack, then push it over sideways. Alternate front and back ends and you can "walk" the vehicle sideways out of the ruts you just created. Kind of like rolling a car along on an airbag, but more spectacular. Sounds very perilous. Never had the nerve to try it myself, and if it had not come from an authoritative source I'd say it was crazy talk. Has anyone tried that?

But yes, as others say, highly versatile tool, if you have the right jacking point options and a good base board.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

You can also make a tongue for the receiver hitch that the jack can fit into. I carry a 60" Hi-Lift. I also used it to slightly spread a second gen frame to r&r the trans crossmember. I also have the Jackmate accessory which holds a chain and gives a second clamp or support at the top end.

 

[jhenderson]

I've used " jack and shove " plenty. Works well when you plan it that way.

 

[JLeake]

It works well, given the situation where that is feasible. You can also use those jacks as a poor mans winch. However be careful, they can bite and hurt you if you are not careful.

 

[seafish]

It works well, given the situation where that is feasible. You can also use those jacks as a poor mans winch. However be careful, they can bite and hurt you if you are not careful.

Too true....8000 lbs coming back at you through the handle can be no fun....I have never been hurt, but still remember my surprise the first (and only!!) time as the handle kept coming towards my face on the release stroke.