So, you’re diving into the world of coilover installation for that perfect stance. Like many car enthusiasts, you’re aiming for both aesthetics and improved performance, and coilovers are a great way to achieve that. However, lowering your car, even slightly, introduces a new challenge: getting a jack underneath it. You’re not alone if you’re finding that standard floor jacks just won’t cut it anymore.
Navigating the world of low-profile jacks can be tricky, especially when budget is a consideration. Places like Harbor Freight offer appealing prices, but concerns about quality and durability are valid, particularly when it comes to safety equipment like car jacks. For a DIYer who’s comfortable with basic maintenance like oil changes, alternators, and water pumps, expanding into suspension work is a natural progression. And a Decent Floor Jack is the key to unlocking these new DIY opportunities.
The problem you’re facing – finding a jack that fits under a lowered car – is common. Many standard floor jacks have a starting height of around 3 inches, which, as you’ve discovered, is often too high for cars lowered even a little. If you’re already sitting at just under 3 inches of clearance with Swift Spec-R springs and planning to go lower, you’ll definitely need to explore low-profile options. Ideally, you need a decent floor jack that can slide under a car with less than 2 inches of ground clearance.
Maneuvering your car into a garage, especially if it’s on a slope or requires awkward angles, further complicates things. Using ramps or lift blocks becomes difficult when space is tight. While a full lift system might be ideal, it’s often not feasible or budget-friendly for home DIYers.
So, what are your options for finding a decent floor jack that’s truly low profile and won’t break the bank? Let’s explore some key features to look for and discuss what makes a floor jack suitable for lowered vehicles and reliable for your DIY automotive projects. We’ll help you find a decent floor jack to safely and effectively work on your car.
