How To Jack Up GX470: The Ultimate Guide
What To Know
- Whether you’re tackling a challenging trail or simply need to change a tire, knowing how to safely and effectively jack up your GX470 is essential.
- Once the vehicle is raised enough to allow for the removal of the tire, place the jack stands under the frame, near the jacking point.
- Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle using the jack until the tire is resting on the ground.
The Lexus GX470 is a robust and capable SUV, renowned for its off-road prowess. Whether you’re tackling a challenging trail or simply need to change a tire, knowing how to safely and effectively jack up your GX470 is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to handle any situation.
Gather Your Tools and Gear
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment readily available. This will ensure a smooth and efficient jacking process:
- Jack: A heavy-duty floor jack rated for the weight of your GX470 is crucial.
- Jack Stands: Always use jack stands to support the vehicle after lifting, never rely solely on the jack.
- Lug Wrench: A sturdy lug wrench is essential for loosening and tightening lug nuts.
- Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks behind the opposite wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and grime.
- Flat Surface: Find a level, solid surface to park your GX470 on.
Choosing the Right Jacking Point
The GX470 has designated jacking points located on the vehicle’s frame. These points are designed to distribute the weight evenly and prevent damage to the undercarriage.
- Front Jacking Points: Locate the jacking points near the front wheels, slightly behind the front tires. You should see a small, raised bump on the frame.
- Rear Jacking Points: The rear jacking points are located near the rear wheels, just behind the rear tires.
Preparing Your GX470 for Jacking
1. Apply the Parking Brake: Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
2. Shift to Park (Automatic) or First Gear (Manual): This provides an additional layer of safety.
3. Place Wheel Chocks: Position wheel chocks behind the opposite wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
4. Locate the Jacking Point: Identify the appropriate jacking point for the wheel you’re working on.
Lifting Your GX470 Safely
1. Position the Jack: Center the jack under the designated jacking point. Ensure the jack is securely positioned and stable.
2. Raise the Vehicle: Slowly crank the jack handle to lift the vehicle.
3. Use Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is raised enough to allow for the removal of the tire, place the jack stands under the frame, near the jacking point. The jack stands should be positioned so they are supporting the vehicle’s weight.
4. Lower the Jack: Carefully lower the jack until the vehicle is resting securely on the jack stands.
Replacing the Tire
1. Loosen Lug Nuts: Use your lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the tire you’re replacing. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise. Do not remove the lug nuts completely at this stage.
2. Remove the Tire: Once the lug nuts are loose, remove the tire by pulling it straight out.
3. Install the New Tire: Position the new tire onto the hub, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
4. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts by hand, ensuring they are snug.
5. Lower the Vehicle: Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle using the jack until the tire is resting on the ground.
6. Final Tightening: Tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench in a star pattern, ensuring they are securely fastened.
Lowering Your GX470
1. Remove Jack Stands: Carefully remove the jack stands.
2. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack until it is resting on the ground.
3. Remove the Jack: Once the vehicle is fully lowered, remove the jack and store it safely.
Important Safety Considerations
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands to support the vehicle.
- Always double-check the jack stand placement. Ensure they are securely positioned and supporting the vehicle’s weight.
- Never attempt to jack up a vehicle on an uneven surface. Find a level, solid surface to park your GX470 on.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure there are no obstructions or hazards around the vehicle.
- If you are unsure about any aspect of the jacking process, consult a qualified mechanic.
Final Thoughts: Mastering the Lift
Knowing how to jack up your GX470 safely and effectively is a valuable skill for any owner. By following these steps and adhering to safety precautions, you can confidently handle tire changes, repairs, or any other situations that require lifting your vehicle. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: How much weight can my GX470 jack handle?
A: Your jack should be rated for the weight of your GX470, which you can find in your owner’s manual.
Q: Can I use any type of jack for my GX470?
A: No, you should only use a heavy-duty floor jack specifically designed for the weight of your SUV.
Q: What if I don’t have jack stands?
A: Never rely solely on a jack to support a vehicle. Jack stands are essential for safety.
Q: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?
A: Inspect your jack and jack stands regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
Q: What if I’m still unsure about jacking up my GX470?
A: If you have any doubts or concerns, consult a qualified mechanic. They can provide guidance and assistance.