Hi Lift jacking

[pastorsteve]

For the many that have Hi Lift jacks. I've had one for other jeeps but I don't find any safe lift points on the JK because of the bumper plastic and side steps. Where do you guys lift from? Thinking about getting one for the JK.

I see from photos that several of you have them.

[leros]

ive used my shrockworks slider before. you could always get the wheel lift accessory too.

[pastorsteve]

If I find a set of Rubicon rails I could see using them but..........what's the wheel lift?

[bly109]

If I find a set of Rubicon rails I could see using them but..........what's the wheel lift?

Highlift Lift mate

http://www.quadratec.com/Assets/Images/35611/35611-md.jpg

http://www.quadratec.com/products/92200_90.htm

[redstarcluster]

That wouldn't damage the tire carrier?

[hunter0781]

I was actually going to post something similar to this today....has anyone used a high lift jack on the stock rubi rails with success?

[bly109]

That wouldn't damage the tire carrier?

??:thinking:

[leros]

That wouldn't damage the tire carrier?

That is for a tire on the axle not the spare.

[pastorsteve]

The tire mate looks cool - but for what purpose? You can't change the tire and you can't jack up and .............?

[putnam dan]

The tire mate looks cool - but for what purpose? You can't change the tire and you can't jack up and .............?

It's for lifting you out of a hole not changing the tire. If you want to change your tire with one of these your going to need to strap your axle to your frame first

[bly109]

It's for lifting you out of a hole not changing the tire. If you want to change your tire with one of these your going to need to strap your axle to your frame first

Or if you get your front end or frame hung up on something and need to stack some rocks under the tire. Thats why I got one. :yup:

[Woods]

It's not a JK and near as I an tell, it's not lifting the Jeep, but does anybody know how and what is going on at the end of this video?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie5l5YNd1R0

[bly109]

It's not a JK and near as I an tell, it's not lifting the Jeep, but does anybody know how and what is going on at the end of this video?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie5l5YNd1R0

Do you mean using the highlift to hold the axle in the Jeep?

Here's the recovery we did on my bro's XJ after he snapped his shaft. We were going to use the highlift frame, but then Usgaone remembered seeing an "axle roller" for rent in the office at Raucsh creek. It worked really well.

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/creek-34.jpg
http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/creek-35.jpg

[Desert Fox]

I used my Hi Lift many times when I had my TJ. One look at the JK and I added a steel front winch bumper, rock rails and a trailer hitch. Problem solved. Most frequent uses for me have been to stack rocks and to "slide off" when high centered. I've never had a flat tire. I also carry a 14" X 14" piece of 3/4 inch plywood to put under the jack when in sand.

[CIJeep]

The tire mate looks cool - but for what purpose? You can't change the tire and you can't jack up and .............?

Sure you can, just put something under the axle tube and be sure to block the wheels on the other axle.

Use a rock under the axle, you know...on a solid rock I stand. :)

[easttnruby]

I was actually going to post something similar to this today....has anyone used a high lift jack on the stock rubi rails with success?

I have used the hi lift on the rubi rails. all held up fine and no problem. I like to lift from a D-ring though for a little more stability. Its kinda scary when the jeep shifts and you can see the jack sway side to side.

[pastorsteve]

Use a rock under the axle, you know...on a solid rock I stand. :) :rotflmao1:


Thanks for that. I do think you mean: He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
Psalm 40:2 but thanks.:yup:

[ColinW]

Helped a fellow member on here jack up the front end of his JK with a hi-lift using the stock bumper...we just put it in the center of the bumper and there wasn't any damage afterwards.

[pastorsteve]

Great thanks. I've used my old one on CJ's easily enough but not on the JK yet. Maybe when I strip or change out the bumpers it'll be easier.... that and maybe rock rails for the side.

[Jarne]

I have used the hi lift on the rubi rails. all held up fine and no problem. I like to lift from a D-ring though for a little more stability. Its kinda scary when the jeep shifts and you can see the jack sway side to side.

They call the jacks "Widow Makers" for a reason. I have ran calls where the jack fell and crushed the person underneath. The handle can also kick-back and pop ya if you are not careful.

[pastorsteve]

Ahhhhh I remember now. Those handles can be a little jumpy.

[JoeBlob]

Just get some D-Rings front and rear.
http://my.project-jk.com/data/505/medium/IMG_1502pfb.jpg

[pastorsteve]

Sorry Brother............. didn't even notice the d-rings. That's a gorgeous Jeep.

[silver rubicon]

I was actually going to post something similar to this today....has anyone used a high lift jack on the stock rubi rails with success?

i have used the hi lift on my rubicon rails three times already and they held up fine; however..........you need to place a t shirt or rag between the jack and the body of your jeep; as you lift the vehicle, the jack tends to lean into the jeep. if you don't have something to cushion the contact, you will definitely dent or gouge your jeep. :eek2:

[4lo n go]

not to be a total noob or anything, although I am...

How would you lift from a d-ring? I have a hi-lift and got the tire lift...

[JoeBlob]

Find some flat ground, chock the wheels, hook the jack on the d-ring and start pumping.

http://www.jk-forum.com/picture.php?albumid=324&pictureid=1894
http://www.jk-forum.com/picture.php?albumid=324&pictureid=1893

[4lo n go]

o ok, so like slip the d-ring in and lift?

[texmexjeeper]

TOO E-Z!!!!!!!:thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Ilovemy08jk]

It seems to me that the Hi Lift is kinda unstable?

[bly109]

It seems to me that the Hi Lift is kinda unstable?

Oh yeah, they are. I use it as a last resort if I have to jack and I always leave myself bailout room :yup:

[johare]

I would highly, highly recommend practicing using a high-lift jack in your driveway - a bunch. I highly recommend this video from off-road guru Bill Burke:
Getting Unstuck DVD (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/cart/product.php?productid=18379&cat=0&page=1)
He shows the proper use of a high-lift jack, proper winching techniques and other great advice.

[JoeBlob]

It seems to me that the Hi Lift is kinda unstable?

Yes, definately find a flat surface and chock the wheels. The Jeep in the picture has 6 inches of lift and 37" tires so the jack is at it's highest point, making it more unstable. The tire still didn't make it off the ground but I wanted to show him how to use the d-ring while I hosed off the mud underneath.

[lc619fr]

Because I'm poor (b/c of the JK of course) and I live WAY to close to WV, instead of buyin a wheel lift for the highlift, I use a ratchet strap. Prob not the best thing, or the safest (but niether is the Highlift) but it's worked for the JK and the last 4 jeeps I've had. works well on the well and the D ring. But as far as the Highlifts usefulness, it sucks when you have to use it, but it also sucks when you need it and don't have it (been there).

[somewhereinla]

I would highly, highly recommend practicing using a high-lift jack in your driveway - a bunch. I highly recommend this video from off-road guru Bill Burke:
Getting Unstuck DVD (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/cart/product.php?productid=18379&cat=0&page=1)
He shows the proper use of a high-lift jack, proper winching techniques and other great advice.

X2. A must have.

[Dwikto]

Because I'm poor (b/c of the JK of course) and I live WAY to close to WV, instead of buyin a wheel lift for the highlift, I use a ratchet strap. Prob not the best thing, or the safest (but niether is the Highlift) but it's worked for the JK and the last 4 jeeps I've had. works well on the well and the D ring. But as far as the Highlifts usefulness, it sucks when you have to use it, but it also sucks when you need it and don't have it (been there).


unless you are using a trucker 10,000lb strap, do not do that agin, it is not safe at all. you will kill yourself or someone else. pay the $30.00 and pick up the wheel lift stap for the hi-lift. i do not want to read about you and how your jeep came crashing down on your head. Not a lecture, but come on man $30.00 skip one meal out with you and someone else and you just saved your life.

[pastorsteve]

Well fuggettaboutit. I've decided to get an air jack and avoid the age-old jack problem. I can lift 25" with a flat, inflatable air jack without concern of the jack slipping or kicking out.

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj220/PastorCrain/trucks.gif

[mainejeeper]

If I were looking to simply jack up my stock height JK, I'd use the factory jack. The hi-lift shines as a multi-tool. I ran trails with my old jeep for many years. Even though I had a good winch, there were many times I used my hi-lift as a winch insted. Why? stalled motor, low battery, take your pick. The point is, the Hi-lift is simple and with that comes amazing reliability, someting I need on the trail. It's a jack, a winch, a press, a vice, a puller, a make shift tie rod, the list goes on and on...
As mentioned before, the most important thing anyone should do as a hi-lift owner is to KNOW THE TOOL. Practice with it at home. Know it well and maintain it and you'll be glad you have it on the day when every other tool craps out!

[wgr]

13253
By using 12mm or 16mm bolt to attach this long ram jack to my front bumper or rear frame rail i feel this is often more safe option than using my high lift. Also using proper base and strong enough bolts to secure it down to earth---not like in this picture...lazy me.
WARNING ! Never go under it with this setup. It may collapse suddenly or lose it´s pressure...crushing you. Always use a proper support to let your jeep rest on it...never on this jack alone.

[Dwikto]

Well fuggettaboutit. I've decided to get an air jack and avoid the age-old jack problem. I can lift 25" with a flat, inflatable air jack without concern of the jack slipping or kicking out.

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj220/PastorCrain/trucks.gif

as long as your engine or somebody elses is running. i agree an awsome tool, but would it work in deep water or mud?

[wgr]

13254
not in this picture....but normally i also use thick plywood base where i can bolt lower end also-
WARNING ! Never go under it with this jack as it can collapse or lose its pressure ! Always use proper support for it and let weight rest on something else than this jack. You may get crushed underneath if it loses suddenly it´s pressure.

[lc619fr]

unless you are using a trucker 10,000lb strap, do not do that agin, it is not safe at all. you will kill yourself or someone else. pay the $30.00 and pick up the wheel lift stap for the hi-lift. i do not want to read about you and how your jeep came crashing down on your head. Not a lecture, but come on man $30.00 skip one meal out with you and someone else and you just saved your life.

Thanks for your concern, I actually use the 8000# strap, but close enough I don't get under the jeep when its on the highlift nor do I let anybody else, I don't trust the jack, I trust the strength not the stability. And the only time I use that method is when i need to lift the tire about 1" to get some boards under it. If I'm lifting it I use the D rings. But again I appreciate your concern and I promise you won't hear about me or my jeep come crashing down b/c I'll never tell :rotflmao2: J/K

[Dwikto]

Thanks for your concern, I actually use the 8000# strap, but close enough I don't get under the jeep when its on the highlift nor do I let anybody else, I don't trust the jack, I trust the strength not the stability. And the only time I use that method is when i need to lift the tire about 1" to get some boards under it. If I'm lifting it I use the D rings. But again I appreciate your concern and I promise you won't hear about me or my jeep come crashing down b/c I'll never tell :rotflmao2: J/K

Well Played, Well played:wink:

[wgr]

13278

13279

13280

Bolt to bumper and plywood base to make it safer.

[JKDoc]

I was actually going to post something similar to this today....has anyone used a high lift jack on the stock rubi rails with success?

Yep, use the Hi-lift on the rail to lift one side of the Jeep which then goes on floor jack stands when I rotate the tires or swap my road tires/wheels for trail gear.

Have also used the Hi-lift with a shackle on the Shrockworks bumper and in the receiver hitch of my rear bumper.

I keep a pad between the jack and Jeep body just in case although I've not had a problem yet.

[JMP8562]

If I were looking to simply jack up my stock height JK, I'd use the factory jack. The hi-lift shines as a multi-tool. I ran trails with my old jeep for many years. Even though I had a good winch, there were many times I used my hi-lift as a winch insted. Why? stalled motor, low battery, take your pick. The point is, the Hi-lift is simple and with that comes amazing reliability, someting I need on the trail. It's a jack, a winch, a press, a vice, a puller, a make shift tie rod, the list goes on and on...
As mentioned before, the most important thing anyone should do as a hi-lift owner is to KNOW THE TOOL. Practice with it at home. Know it well and maintain it and you'll be glad you have it on the day when every other tool craps out!

:thinking: AS A MAKE SHIFT TIE ROD :dontknow2: can you explain how it would be a good thing to know thanks:thumbsup:

[hyatt147]

I have used the Hilift on my stock Rubi rail multiple times. I put a piece of wood between the jack and the rail

[JMP8562]

:thinking: AS A MAKE SHIFT TIE ROD :dontknow2: can you explain how it would be a good thing to know thanks:thumbsup:

:dontknow2: :thinking:

[Geeper4x4]

I have said this all recently about changing a tire with the Hi-Lift but...

The jack that comes with the JK works very well for lifting the axle to change a tire and most problem situations. The Hi-Lift jack is a tool and can when used properly do things the standard scissor jack can't. It sure does look rugged and if your winch was broke and your all alone in the wilderness/outback then I guess you could use one. I think the Hi-Lift is a well made and quality tool! I might even get one for my Jeep. This is where I will probably get flamed but...Personally I think it is way over rated as an accessory for the Jeep. Why you might ask?

Lift points on a stock Jeep - none Yes, I know they make a hook for the wheel to lift but that doesn't help if you need to take the wheel off. You would have to block the axle underneath and remember I said that it is really unstable. Don't get under there with just a Hi-Lift attached.

Lift for a flat tire on a lifted and aftermarket bumper Jeep - The reason why we add mods like lifts, coils, and swaybar discos is to let the axle flex. You have to jack at the bumper or rockrails way too much to get a tire off the ground. This makes an unstable platform which can cause damage to the vehicle or the operator. I do have rails and bumpers that I could use but I choose not to use them. One of the blocks (AEV) makes for the scissor jack works great and stows easily for a lifted JK.
http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h112/old15bravo/95850-th.jpg

See how high the bumper point is in this photo. This is in a level garage floor not the off-camber trail with boulders. :what?:
http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h112/old15bravo/revolver5.jpg

Used as a winch! - Yes, it can be done but man what a serious pain in the back, arms, and other places I won't mention. Can you say sloooow. Need a winch get a winch or go with someone that has a strap and/or winch. The tow strap will get you out of many a high centered spot on the trail.

If you want something that looks really heavy duty for around $60 then a Hi-Lift will make your rig look rugged and like a serious off road rig. Some of the guys I have gone out on the trails with have them but I have found very little need for one on most trails.

Or you could just build one of these and climb over everything including my JK.

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h112/old15bravo/IMG_3229.jpg

Note : Due to current inflation my $0.02 is not worth a thing.

[JMP8562]

I would highly, highly recommend practicing using a high-lift jack in your driveway - a bunch. I highly recommend this video from off-road guru Bill Burke:
Getting Unstuck DVD (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/cart/product.php?productid=18379&cat=0&page=1)
He shows the proper use of a high-lift jack, proper winching techniques and other great advice.

burn me a copy :rotflmao2::rotflmao2:

[acelockco]

13253
By using 12mm or 16mm bolt to attach this long ram jack to my front bumper or rear frame rail i feel this is often more safe option than using my high lift. Also using proper base and strong enough bolts to secure it down to earth---not like in this picture...lazy me.
WARNING ! Never go under it with this setup. It may collapse suddenly or lose it´s pressure...crushing you. Always use a proper support to let your jeep rest on it...never on this jack alone.


That's great, but what about using it as a winch, clamp, or even jaws of life?

The Hi-Lift is a must have for any off roader.

There are additional parts and other methods to lift just about anything. It is not designed to replace your jack for changing a tire, but is designed for off road use when you are out of options.

[rballman]

what size hi-lift are you guys using? is 48 good enough for 35s?

[kleinrider]

what size hi-lift are you guys using? is 48 good enough for 35s?

Good question; I've got a 48" one, but bought it for using to level the shed I had just purchased. I convince my wife that the price of it would be cheaper than having the delivery guys out twice to level the shed! (creative accounting!)

[XJHammer]

Good question; I've got a 48" one, but bought it for using to level the shed I had just purchased. I convince my wife that the price of it would be cheaper than having the delivery guys out twice to level the shed! (creative accounting!)

I would get the biggest one that you can. I always seemed to be at the top of mine by the time the wheels where off the ground. I wish that i bought the taller one.

[kleinrider]

I would get the biggest one that you can. I always seemed to be at the top of mine by the time the wheels where off the ground. I wish that i bought the taller one.

One reason I got the 48" one is that I plan on it mounting vertically on the rear bumper (whenever I get the one I want) and didn't want the jack sticking up above the roof line. Of course, if it ends up being too short to work I'd be screwed....

[westchester]

I posted this on another thread, if you're thinking of gettting the 60" Hi-lift :

I have a 60" on order as I dont plan on buying an electric winch, and having the longer Hi-Lift as manual winch on the odd occasion its needed.

Horizontally from tail-light edge to tail-light edge, the rear of a 4-door JK is 63" wide.

Hi-Lift's 60" measures max 60.5 (clevis down) and 63" (clevis up).

I'll be welding tabs and securing it on an Olympic rear defender bumper, under the spare wheel (yet to do)

[tn_dodge]

Do you mean using the highlift to hold the axle in the Jeep?

Here's the recovery we did on my bro's XJ after he snapped his shaft. We were going to use the highlift frame, but then Usgaone remembered seeing an "axle roller" for rent in the office at Raucsh creek. It worked really well.

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/creek-34.jpg
http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/creek-35.jpg

If you are asking why they would need to worry about holding the axle in:
When the vehicle has "C Clip" axles, they will walk out of the tube if you try to drive on them after they break. You have to figure out some way to keep everything under the jeep. We were in Tellico and had this happen to a TJ. We found a flexible green sapling and strapped it to the side of the jeep and drove out that way. We had to stop every once in a while to pour some lubrication on the tire & tree to keep from starting a fire! :clap: I have never seen the tool in the picture above, that is pretty awesome!

I have also used the hi-lift as a tie rod as well. Snapped a tie rod on the trail. Used zip ties and hose clamps and c-clamps and whatever we could find to attach the hi lift frame to the broken tie rod. Tried to drive out going forward and it just started bending the frame of the hi lift. But we noticed when I was driving backwards it was not putting the same stress on it. So, I drove all the way out of the trail IN REVERSE in the dark. That was not fun, but it got us out, eventually.

My 60" high lift always goes with me when I am riding. It has saved our bacon way too many times.

[Jeep Mama]

They call the jacks "Widow Makers" for a reason. I have ran calls where the jack fell and crushed the person underneath. The handle can also kick-back and pop ya if you are not careful.

Okay, now I am concerned... He has one of those hi-lifts, he always take a board with him when off roading... but, I DO NOT want to be a widow:dontknow2:

[mainejeeper]

Im not trying to sound rude, but does he know how to use it? If so, you've got nothing to worry about. I guess it's like driving. Accidents can always happen, but they are fare more certain when you don't know how to drive. As long as he knows how the hi-lift behaves, it's alright. I must say, it is my absolute go to tool for just about any situation on the trail. I wouldn't wheel without one!
It's been said here before, but PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE till you know how to use it.

[Jeep Mama]

Im not trying to sound rude, but does he know how to use it? If so, you've got nothing to worry about. I guess it's like driving. Accidents can always happen, but they are fare more certain when you don't know how to drive. As long as he knows how the hi-lift behaves, it's alright. I must say, it is my absolute go to tool for just about any situation on the trail. I wouldn't wheel without one!
It's been said here before, but PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE till you know how to use it.

No. its not rude to ask that question. :yup:

Its a good question, and I certainly plan to ask him about it. Most likely the answer will be YES. He is an Engineer, so he has a lot of experience with mechanical things. After reading some of the posts on this thread I felt a little concerned.

[mainejeeper]

Years ago, Hi-lift or bumper type jacks were common. Nearly every car had them. Back then, people knew the difference between a jack and a stand. The jack got the vehicle in the air, and the stand was used to support it. The jacks that come standard with todays cars (often scissor jacks) are much more stable than the old bumper jacks. I guess that was a safety improvement. Because they are so much more stable, some people don't bother with stands... BIG MISTAKE! The stand is still the only way to be sure the vehicle isn't going to move. Use the Hi-lift as a jack, it's faster and can go higher than a modern scissor jack, but don't forget the stands!
-Nathan

[Meni]

Do you mean using the highlift to hold the axle in the Jeep?

Here's the recovery we did on my bro's XJ after he snapped his shaft. We were going to use the highlift frame, but then Usgaone remembered seeing an "axle roller" for rent in the office at Raucsh creek. It worked really well.

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/creek-34.jpg
http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h284/Malyel/creek-35.jpg
This is an AMAZING recovery idea!!!

[XJHammer]

I've seen that one live. Not such a good time, but we did get the XJ out.

[tibbar]

Wow, that cool, great job getting it out

[chuck45]

I would highly, highly recommend practicing using a high-lift jack in your driveway - a bunch. I highly recommend this video from off-road guru Bill Burke:
Getting Unstuck DVD (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/cart/product.php?productid=18379&cat=0&page=1)
He shows the proper use of a high-lift jack, proper winching techniques and other great advice.

I have the video and took Bill's Recovery Class in which he covers the use of the HiLift. Both are well worth the time and effort.

Somebody mentioned protecting the body with a jacket or something. The trick is to start with the base a bit under the vehicle so the HiLift leans away from the vehicle. That way when they close up the HL won't hit your vehicle.

[chuck45]

what size hi-lift are you guys using? is 48 good enough for 35s?

I've got a 60" HiLift. I want the ability to winch myself backwards if need be. It is a pain but if you have the HiLift Off Road kit it comes with some additional rigging to make it way easier. I always carry it and have used it. Yes it takes a while but it beats walking out.

We are often out by ourselves and will often see nobody else for a whole day. Under such circumstances it would be foolish to be without a HiLift.

[yetibear]

I HATE that damn hi lift jack.:tantrum: Dang half ass piece of Rube Goldberg engineering.:ukliam2: The thing does nothing really well.:motz2: And most of what it does do, takes so much work, it makes your eyes bleed.:eek2: And talk about a dangerous contraption!:jawdrop:

[yetibear]

Then again I never leave home with out my hi lift. It does so many things, and sometimes it is the only thing that will work. I hate it, and if I never have to use it again I will die a happy man, but it does always come along. Cause you never know.

:wink::yup:
:rotflmao2::rotflmao2:

[J5627617123]

I am glad I read it, because I would have never thought it.

newbee

[MadMyk]

Bought my Hi-Lift and brought it to Rausch Creek on the off chance I MIGHT use it. Ended up taking it off the Jeep twice, once successfully lifting vwJarhead off of his shock tower so he could climb Pizza Rock. The other time was for my own rig, didn't help me drive off the rock I was high centered on right on my tranny, but it did help me build up a ramp under the driver's side tire so I didn't tear off my oil pan when I did get pulled off. The Tire-mate or whatever its called is a must-have. Plus, I always have at least one jackstand with me (usually both). X100, there is a difference between a jack and a stand.

[Seryoga]

I have said this all recently about changing a tire with the Hi-Lift but...

The jack that comes with the JK works very well for lifting the axle to change a tire and most problem situations. The Hi-Lift jack is a tool and can when used properly do things the standard scissor jack can't. It sure does look rugged and if your winch was broke and your all alone in the wilderness/outback then I guess you could use one. I think the Hi-Lift is a well made and quality tool! I might even get one for my Jeep. This is where I will probably get flamed but...Personally I think it is way over rated as an accessory for the Jeep. Why you might ask?

Lift points on a stock Jeep - none Yes, I know they make a hook for the wheel to lift but that doesn't help if you need to take the wheel off. You would have to block the axle underneath and remember I said that it is really unstable. Don't get under there with just a Hi-Lift attached.

HiLift wasn't made for any kind of "stock" vehicle except tractor. FYI its called a farm jack, HiLift is just one of the brands of it. So if you get this jack, its up to you to have accessible jacking points.

Lift for a flat tire on a lifted and aftermarket bumper Jeep - The reason why we add mods like lifts, coils, and swaybar discos is to let the axle flex. You have to jack at the bumper or rockrails way too much to get a tire off the ground. This makes an unstable platform which can cause damage to the vehicle or the operator. I do have rails and bumpers that I could use but I choose not to use them. One of the blocks (AEV) makes for the scissor jack works great and stows easily for a lifted JK.

I'd rather use HiLift jack on uneven terrain than scissor jack. And i actually got to use both many times while out wheeling. And i will agree with some people on here who have said that you need to learn your jack, and practice lifting your Jeep in driveway. And since your talking about the block for scissor jack, they make one for HiLift too, which gives it a wider base so its more stable and can be used in thick mud/sand.

See how high the bumper point is in this photo. This is in a level garage floor not the off-camber trail with boulders. :what?:
http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h112/old15bravo/revolver5.jpg

If the car is sitting on 40's, then you don't need to be a genius to figure out that a 48" jack won't do jack...
And usually on a trail, the rear bumper is much closer to the ground then on lever surface.

Used as a winch! - Yes, it can be done but man what a serious pain in the back, arms, and other places I won't mention. Can you say sloooow. Need a winch get a winch or go with someone that has a strap and/or winch. The tow strap will get you out of many a high centered spot on the trail.

And how exactly will you use a winch if your battery is dead, and engine is not running? What if your winch broke, or cable snapped? There are situations when you cant use your winch. What if you need to go backwards when stuck, how will a winch in a front help you there? Sure you can get one for the rear of your Jeep, but i'd rather spend $50 on a jack, and another $50 for jack accessory kit. A strap works well, agree, but what if the terrain+weather conditions make it useless??

For example: We went wheeling this Saturday. It was raining, and the terrain there consists of clay, and thick swamp mud. We tried using strap to extract someone, and guess what, tires spin, and Jeep is sliding all over the place. Winch was next in turn, and it did work. But if there was no winch, we'd use a HiLift.

If you want something that looks really heavy duty for around $60 then a Hi-Lift will make your rig look rugged and like a serious off road rig. Some of the guys I have gone out on the trails with have them but I have found very little need for one on most trails.

If people get them for looks, then they deserve getting smacked with those jack handles. :rotflmao2:

[RageTV]

Good questions will tag this post

[john smack]

I agree with yetibear.. the sketchiest thing that I never leave home without!