How to Jack Up a Mitsubishi Triton: Safety Tips and Tricks for a Secure Lift

Whether you’re tackling a tire change, performing routine maintenance, or embarking on a serious off-road adventure, knowing how to safely and effectively jack up your Mitsubishi Triton is essential. This guide will walk you through the entire process, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to handle any situation.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

Before you even think about lifting your Triton, prioritize safety. These precautions are paramount:

• Choose a Level Surface: Never attempt to jack up your vehicle on an incline or uneven ground. Find a flat, solid surface like pavement or compacted gravel.
• Engage the Parking Brake: This ensures your vehicle remains stationary while you’re working underneath.
• Chock the Wheels: Place chocks behind the wheels opposite the side you’re jacking up. This prevents the vehicle from rolling.
• Use Appropriate Jack Stands: Never rely solely on the jack to support the vehicle. Always use jack stands to provide a stable and secure platform.
• Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris or accidental contact with the jack.
• Read Your Owner’s Manual: Consult your Triton’s manual for specific jacking points and safety guidelines.

Identifying the Jacking Points

Your Mitsubishi Triton has designated jacking points designed for safe and effective lifting. These points are typically located:

• Front: On the frame rails, near the front wheels.
• Rear: On the frame rails, near the rear wheels.
• Center: On the underside of the vehicle, typically near the transmission.

Locate these points carefully, ensuring you’re using the correct ones for the task at hand.

Gathering Your Tools

Having the right tools makes the job much easier and safer:

• Jack: Ensure your jack is rated for the weight of your Triton and is in good working condition.
• Jack Stands: Choose stands with a lifting capacity that exceeds your vehicle’s weight.
• Lug Wrench: This is essential for removing and tightening lug nuts.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt, grease, and potential injury.
• Level: Optional but helpful for ensuring the vehicle is properly leveled.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up Your Triton

1. Preparation: Park your Triton on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
2. Locate the Jacking Point: Determine the jacking point based on the work you’re performing.
3. Position the Jack: Place the jack securely under the designated jacking point.
4. Begin Lifting: Slowly and carefully raise the vehicle using the jack.
5. Place Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is slightly elevated, position the jack stands under the frame rails near the jacking point.
6. Lower the Jack: Gently lower the vehicle onto the jack stands.
7. Remove the Jack: Remove the jack and store it safely.
8. Perform Your Work: Now you can safely work on the underside of your Triton.
9. Raising the Other Side: If you need to raise the other side of the vehicle, repeat the process, ensuring you use the appropriate jacking point and jack stands.

Lowering Your Triton: A Reverse Process

1. Raise the Vehicle: Using the jack, carefully raise the vehicle slightly off the jack stands.
2. Remove the Stands: Remove the jack stands and place them safely aside.
3. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack until it rests firmly on the ground.
4. Remove the Jack: Remove the jack and store it away.
5. Release the Parking Brake: Carefully release the parking brake.
6. Remove Chocks: Remove the wheel chocks.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Triton Lifted Safely

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when jacking up your Mitsubishi Triton. By following these steps, you can confidently lift your vehicle for any task, from a simple tire change to a more extensive repair.

Information You Need to Know

Q1: What is the proper lifting capacity for my Triton’s jack and jack stands?

A: Consult your Triton’s owner’s manual for the exact weight of your vehicle. Your jack and jack stands should have a lifting capacity that exceeds this weight.

Q2: Can I use a standard car jack to lift my Triton?

A: It’s not recommended. A standard car jack may not be strong enough to lift a heavier vehicle like a Triton, and it could potentially fail, putting you at risk.

Q3: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?

A: Regularly inspect your jack and jack stands for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. It’s a good idea to check them before each use.

Q4: What are some common mistakes to avoid when jacking up my Triton?

A: Avoid jacking on uneven ground, using a jack that’s not rated for your vehicle’s weight, failing to use jack stands, and not engaging the parking brake or using wheel chocks.

Q5: Can I use a hydraulic jack instead of a scissor jack?

A: Yes, a hydraulic jack can be used, but ensure it’s rated for the weight of your vehicle and that you have a secure lifting point.