I use a bottle jack.I also keep a 2' piece of 2X12 to put under the jack base so it doesn't sink into the ground.

One thing to look into is an electric scissors jack.  I have seen these in action and they are very good.  Plugs into the lighter.


54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

I think the key word should should changed "must never" get under a car without jack stands. There's just no reason to risk going under any inadequately supported vehicle. I know many of us have done so, including myself and after a few close calls I just don't think my luck will hold out anymore.
Anyway, Fords came with scissor jacks in some of their cars. But even with those, the so called "lug wrench" doubled as the device to turn the screw which in most cases kept you dangerously close to the car while you were trying to raise it. I still prefer the old screw type bottle jacks with the long crank over any OEM jacks I've seen.


~DJ~ AKA "Bleach"
1956 Ford Fairlane Town Sedan 30K original miles

I keep a scissor jack in the truck.  You should avoid getting under a car without jack stands but if I have to, I feel more comfortable with a mechanical jack in place, rather than hydraulic.
As far as the height required, jack it up with your shop jack to the point that the tire is off the ground, and measure.  You'll need a jack that will reach that height.  It doesn't need to be heavy duty, either - you won't be lifting the whole car with it.  Probably the lowest rating will be fine and that should keep it smaller and lighter.



Lawrenceville, GA

Small bottle jack with a 1/2 thick piece of steel plate to keep the small jack end from denting the frame. And yes it can.

I keep a 2 ton bottle jack in my trunk as it is compact and lifts my 56 anywhere on the frame. Not sure if it is a 24" or 28" though, will have to check. 

I love the smell of burning rubber in the morning!

I have a 1956 Crown Victoria and have an original jack but I don't think that I would like to use it to change a flat nowdays (newly chromed bumpers). Looking for an inexpensive low profile jack to keep in my trunk for tire issues/emergencies. What type - scissors, bottle or lever? I am leaning towards scissors because of the lower profile and small size. What capacity - 2 tons? What height - 24 or 28 inches?

Thanks in advance,
Danny