I want to have some work done on my 2002 Volvo s40. It requires
that someone get under the car to remove and replace the drive axles.


I have what you might call backyard mechanics. They know what they are doing. However, up to now, I will not allow anyone to get under my car that is just being held up by a carjack. That seems unsafe. Getting under a car that is being held by those small jacks in the trunk of a car does not seem wise.


Is there a way to make this safer? is there a was to rent repair bay time in
a repair bay that has a hydraulic lift?


Any help appreciated. Thanks in advance.


Respectfully,


Newport_j

 

If your backyard mechanics get under a car supported by any sort of jack, they do not know what they are doing. You are correct, that is very unsafe. The car should be supported by jack stands before getting underneath it.

 

+1 here. You have several choices - ramps are enough to do an oil/filter change. Anything more and you'd want redundancy, ie a jack (ie bottle or hydraulic) PLUS jack stands. Pay attention to jacking points - don't use control arms or flat body panels - seams by the rocker panels are where the jack points are. When using stands make sure you pay attention to the footing - no soft dirt or directly onto hot asphalt. Finally always chock the wheels (on both sides) and use park and e-brake if possible.

 

Okay, I follow what you say. I would like to know how to make this task safe and inexpensive.


I do not want to go broke trying to get my car fixed. I also would like everyone to be safe.


Any help appreciated. Thanks in advance.


Respectfully,


Lou Reed

 

Either buy jack stands or tell your backyard mechanic to buy his own. I'm really surprised he doesn't have them already.