Brucker previously posted:
"Really sounds like you are afraid of the Hi Lift jacks as if not used properly, things could go wrong. But as with any tool, they do carry their inherent risks, but if one learns to properly use the tool, they can minimize that risk greatly. Think about table saws, large hydraulic presses, firearms, etc. Heck even bottle jacks carry huge consequences if not used correctly. Personally, I would rather carry as many things as I can that can help get me home. Might be the old "boy scout" mentality of always be prepared, even though I was never a scout. But I would hate to have to rely on others in order to make it home. And being "scared" or "nervous" of a piece of a equipment has never slowed me down, only made me want to learn more in order to not be worried. But to each their own..."
I am not afraid of them but I know that if not used properly they can be a disaster. In the posted situation it it appears to be a slight slope with snow on the ground. IMO a bottle jack would be a much better choice in that situation for the already stated reasons.
"Best practice is to chain/strap axle to frame to prevent suspension from drooping while lifting. This gets tire off the ground at a much lower lift height."
"That's my method too. It removes a whole bunch of "sketchiness" that can happen on vehicles with a fair bit of suspension travel."
Using a bottle jack eliminates that need. I have also seen the adapters that attach the hi-lift to the wheel.