Lifting, Jacking, And Support Points

CAUTION: TO HELP AVOID PERSONAL INJURY WHEN A VEHICLE IS ON A HOIST, PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR THE VEHICLE AT THE OPPOSITE END FROM WHICH COMPONENTS ARE BEING REMOVED. THIS WILL REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF THE VEHICLE FALLING OFF OF THE HOIST.

CAUTION: TO HELP AVOID PERSONAL INJURY, ALWAYS USE JACK STANDS WHEN WORKING ON OR UNDER ANY VEHICLE THAT IS SUPPORTED ONLY BY A JACK.

The centerline of gravity on front-wheel drive vehicles is further forward than on rear-wheel drive vehicles. Therefore, whenever removing major components from the rear of a front-wheel drive vehicle, while supported on a hoist, it is mandatory to support the vehicle in a manner to prevent the possibility of a vehicle tipping forward.

NOTE: When jacking or lifting a vehicle at the frame side rails or other prescribed lift points, be certain that lift pads do not contact the catalytic converter, brake pipes or cables, or fuel lines. Such contact may result in damage or unsatisfactory vehicle performance.

When lifting with a frame contact hoist, lift the vehicle on the side frame directly behind the front tires and in front of the rear tires (Views A, B, C, E of Figure on facing page).

When lifting with a suspension contact hoist, position the front structure under the front lower control arms. Position the rear structure under the rear knuckles.

When using a floor jack, position the jack under the rear crossmember (View D of Figure on the facing page).

If required, you can lift at the front of the vehicle on the frame (shaded areas in Figure). However, to protect the ELPO finish on the frame, it is recommended that when lifting on the frame, a protective pad be inserted between the hoist lifting points and the frame.

Fig 1: Identifying Jacking Points

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.