How to Jack Up Rear of F150: Essential Tips and Tricks

Whether you’re tackling a tire change, performing maintenance, or simply need to access the undercarriage of your F-150, knowing how to safely jack up the rear end is a valuable skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently handle any situation that requires lifting your truck.

Gathering Your Gear: Essential Tools for the Job

Before you start jacking up your F-150, make sure you have all the necessary tools:

• A Hydraulic Floor Jack: Choose a jack with a lifting capacity that exceeds the weight of your F-150’s rear axle.
• Jack Stands: Always use jack stands for safety, never rely solely on the jack to support the vehicle. Two stands are recommended for the rear axle.
• Lug Wrench: This is essential for removing and reinstalling your wheels.
• Chocks: Place chocks behind the front tires to prevent the truck from rolling while you work.
• Work Gloves: Protect your hands while handling the jack and lug nuts.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris or accidental drops.
• Flat, Level Surface: Ensure you’re working on a solid, level surface to prevent the jack from slipping.

Safety First: Prioritizing Security

Safety should be your top priority when working under a lifted vehicle. Here’s a rundown of crucial safety measures:

• Engage the Parking Brake: This will help prevent the truck from rolling.
• Use Chocks: Place chocks behind the front tires to further prevent movement.
• Choose the Right Jacking Points: Consult your F-150’s owner’s manual for the designated jacking points on the rear frame. These points are designed to withstand the load and prevent damage to the frame.
• Position the Jack Correctly: Place the jack directly underneath the designated jacking point.
• Lift Gradually: Raise the vehicle slowly and steadily. Never rush the process.
• Use Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is lifted, immediately place jack stands under the frame, ensuring they are securely positioned and supporting the weight.

Step-by-Step Guide: Lifting the Rear of Your F-150

Now that you have your tools and safety measures in place, let’s go through the process of jacking up the rear of your F-150:

1. Park on a Level Surface: Find a flat, solid surface to park your F-150.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
3. Place Chocks: Place chocks behind the front tires to prevent the truck from rolling.
4. Locate the Jacking Points: Consult your owner’s manual to identify the designated jacking points on the rear frame.
5. Position the Jack: Place the hydraulic jack directly underneath the jacking point.
6. Start Lifting: Begin lifting the truck slowly and steadily using the jack.
7. Check for Clearance: As you lift, check for clearance between the tire and the ground. You want to lift the truck high enough to remove the tire, but not so high that it becomes unstable.
8. Position the Jack Stands: Once you have sufficient clearance, carefully place the jack stands under the frame, ensuring they are securely positioned.
9. Lower the Jack: Slowly lower the jack, transferring the weight to the jack stands.
10. Remove the Jack: Once the vehicle is resting on the jack stands, remove the jack.

Tips for a Smooth Lifting Experience

• Use a Jack Pad: Consider using a jack pad to protect the jacking point from damage.
• Inspect the Jack Stands: Before using jack stands, inspect them for damage or wear.
• Double-Check Security: Always double-check that the jack stands are securely positioned and supporting the vehicle’s weight.
• Never Work Under a Vehicle Supported Only by a Jack: Always use jack stands for safety.
• Work with a Partner: If possible, have someone assist you to ensure safety and stability.

The Art of Lowering Your F-150

Once you’ve completed your work, it’s time to lower your F-150 safely:

1. Raise the Jack: Carefully raise the jack to lift the vehicle slightly off the jack stands.
2. Remove Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is slightly lifted, remove the jack stands.
3. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the jack until the vehicle is resting on its tires.
4. Release the Parking Brake: Once the vehicle is safely on the ground, release the parking brake.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

• Tire Pressure: Before lifting your F-150, check your tire pressure and ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Wheel Lug Nut Torque: After reinstalling your wheels, tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque value found in your owner’s manual.
• Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect your jack and jack stands for damage or wear.

Time to Take Action: Putting Your Skills to the Test

Now that you’ve learned how to safely jack up the rear of your F-150, it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. Remember, safety is paramount, so always follow the steps outlined in this guide and prioritize caution throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the proper lifting capacity for a jack used on an F-150?

A1: The jack’s lifting capacity should exceed the weight of your F-150’s rear axle. Consult your owner’s manual for specific weight specifications.

Q2: Where are the designated jacking points on my F-150?

A2: Refer to your F-150’s owner’s manual for detailed information on the location of the jacking points.

Q3: Can I use a scissor jack to lift my F-150?

A3: While scissor jacks are convenient for smaller vehicles, they are not recommended for lifting an F-150 due to their limited lifting capacity and stability.

Q4: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?

A4: It’s a good practice to inspect your jack and jack stands before each use, looking for any signs of damage or wear.

Q5: What should I do if my jack starts to slip while lifting the truck?

A5: If your jack starts to slip, stop lifting immediately and reposition the jack. If the problem persists, use a different jack or seek professional assistance.