Where do you put the jack on a lifted truck?

Lifting a truck is a popular modification that can provide greater ground clearance for off-roading, allow fitting larger tires, and give the vehicle a more aggressive look. However, lifting a truck also raises the frame higher off the ground, which means the factory jacking points may end up too high to safely support the vehicle when changing a tire or performing other maintenance.

So where exactly should you place a jack on a lifted truck? There are a few good jacking points to use depending on the style of lift and how high the truck is raised. Taking the time to identify the proper jacking locations before getting a flat tire or needing to go under the vehicle can prevent accidents and make the process much easier.

Use the Frame Rails

On most lifted trucks, the strongest and safest place to position your jack is going to be on the frame rails that run alongside the chassis. Heavy duty frame rails are designed to support the weight of the vehicle. Placing jack stands directly under the frame rails allows you to safely get the tires off the ground without any risk of the pump jack sliding out or the truck tipping.

To find the frame rails, look for the thicker metal rails that extend along the bottom of the truck, under the doors. The ends of the frame rails are often exposed towards the front and rear of the lifted truck, making them easy to identify. Place your jack directly under the frame rails, as close to the tire as possible. If using jack stands for support once raised, position them directly under the frame rails as well. Most truck frames have small dimples or grooves in the frame rails that are designed as an ideal jack stand contact point.

Use the Differential Housing

The rear differential on trucks provides a stable jacking point, especially on lifted trucks with a solid rear axle. The differential is extremely sturdy and designed to carry the vehicle’s weight. When lifting from the differential housing, be sure your jack is positioned so the pump end rests squarely on the metal housing covering the differential mechanism. Lift from the center of the differential for the most stability. You can then place jack stands directly under the rear axle tubes on either side of the differential if needed.

Use the Control Arms

For the front of a lifted truck, the front lower control arms provide another good jacking point option. Control arms are very sturdy and made to handle the weight and forces of the suspended components. Place your jack underneath the beefy metal arms that connect the axle to the frame. Jack from the central control arm body, not on a joint end. Using the lower control arms avoids lifting from fragile steering or suspension parts in the wheel well.

Use the Axle Tubes

If you cannot easily access the frame rails or differential, you can also look for the axle tubes. These are the thick cylindrical tubes that enclose the axle shafts between the wheels. Place the jack directly under the center of the axle tube to lift that side of the truck. Be careful to position it straight under the axle and not on any joints or steering components. Axle tubes are very solid and provide secure jacking points.

Use the Bumper

As a last resort, you can lift a truck from the bumper if no other jacking points are accessible. This should only be done on very sturdy aftermarket steel bumpers designed specifically to handle the vehicle weight. Lift the bumper from the ends or in the center, using a wide-top jack for maximum stability. Avoid lifting from standard factory plastic bumpers or flimsy aftermarket chrome bumpers.

Safety Tips

When jacking up a lifted truck, keep these additional safety tips in mind:

• Always use jack stands for support once raised, do not rely solely on the jack.
• Make sure the truck is on firm, level ground before lifting.
• Chock the wheels to prevent rolling while lifted.
• Look for pinch weld flanges near the sill plates as alternative jacking points.
• Avoid lifting from the oil pan, engine, or transmission.
• Watch for hot exhaust pipes before positioning the jack.
• Make sure lifting components are in good condition.
• Lift from reinforced jacking point pads if present.
• Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for any specified jacking procedures.

Finding the Jacking Points

Identifying safe jacking locations on a modified lifted truck can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the underbody components. Here are some tips for finding the proper lift points on a raised truck:

• Inspect the truck’s underside and note the frame rails, differential housing, control arms, and axle tubes.
• Look for dimples in the frame that indicate recommended jack stand positions.
• Consult any reference marks on the vehicle’s underside or sills that highlight the jacking points.
• Review the factory service manual for detailed jacking diagrams.
• Ask other lifted truck owners what points they use.
• Search online forums discussing safe jacking for lifted trucks.
• Use a set of jack stands and carefully test potential contact points.

Taking a few minutes to identify where to place jacks and jack stands on a lifted truck provides stability and minimizes the risk of slipping or vehicle damage. Always use extreme care when working under a lifted vehicle.

Types of Lifts and Jacking Tips

Where you can safely place jacks and lift a modified truck depends partly on the type of lift installed. Here are some notes for various lift kits:

Body Lifts

• Maintains factory suspension and modest increase in ride height.
• Use OE jacking points in the manufacturer positions.
• No major change to jacking procedure.

Leaf Spring Lifts

• Raises front and/or rear via leaf spring blocks or shackles.
• Frames and jacking points are relatively unaltered.
• Factory jacking points typically still usable.

Coil Spring Lifts

• Uses taller front coil springs to lift the suspension.
• Gains several more inches of ride height.
• Use the front lower control arms as jacking points.

Strut Spacer Lifts

• Raises front by installing spacers between strut towers.
• Good chance OE jacking points will work normally.
• Watch for any steering or suspension interference.

Long Travel Suspension Lifts

• Custom kits that allow extreme suspension articulation.
• Frames may be heavily modified.
• Use reinforced control arms and frame rails for jacking.

There are many ways to lift a truck, so inspecting the specific setup is important to identify robust jacking zones. The more the suspension is altered, the more likely the lift will impact where you can safely place jacks when working on the truck.

Jacking Safety

Lifting a truck always comes with safety concerns, even more so on trucks elevated higher off the ground. Here are some key tips for safely jacking up lifted trucks:

• Use jack stands – jack stands rated for your truck’s weight are mandatory for support.
• Check the ground surface – make sure the surface is level and will support the lifted vehicle.
• Chock the wheels – prevent any wheel rotation using chocks or blocks.
• Use quality equipment – only use jacks and jack stands rated for the full vehicle weight.
• Carefully test points – check that jacking points solidly support the truck before working underneath.
• Support near the lift point – place jack stands directly near the jacking point for maximum stability.
• Inspect equipment – check jacks and jack stands for any damage or wear before use.
• Use wheel ramps – ramps can provide extra insurance against collapse.
• Avoid body panels – never jack on body panels or bumper covers.
• Watch for hot parts – don’t jack near exhaust components or other hot parts.

Lifting a truck is always potentially hazardous. Do not take any shortcuts – use extreme care and the right tools when raising lifted trucks.

Conclusion

Determining proper jack placement is critical on lifted trucks. Focus on the beefy frame rails, control arms, differentials, and axles when looking for robust jacking points. Avoid unibody pinch welds or thin panels. Always support the vehicle with jack stands and use caution when working under a lifted truck.

Taking the time to identify solid jacking locations before a flat tire or the need to go under the truck for maintenance will keep you safe and prevent vehicle damage. Take a methodical approach, use quality gear, and don’t take any risks when lifting a truck – lifted or not.