I am considering buying online a 2011 SS that has the factory body kit installed. It would seem to me that the extended valence on the side of the car would get in the way of the my jack when I want to lift the read end of the car? Can anyone tell me more about the interface of the jack and the car in front of the rear time when the valence is installed? (A picture would be great if you have one.)

Thanks.
John

 

I have a 1997 Trans Am which always came standard with that side skirt.

At normal ride height, its not a problem to get a hand jack under the car. With a flat-tire, it can be a little bit of a challenge, but not too bad, especially if you've upgraded the rims to 17", 18" or 19" (16"s with a flat can be challenging).

With lowering springs you're gonna have to get inventive. This is the case with all lowered cars though. Usually, guys I know will do 2 things to make this easier:
1) get a low profile jack... the skinnier the better. It doesn't have to high lift or anything ridiculous, just really low approach height.

2) get some 2x8" lumber and make a 30* cut across it to make two 1.75" ramps (2x8 lumber is actually 1.75"x8" ). Simply drive up on the lumber, then jack as needed. Just remember to put the lumber back under the wheel when you're about to lower the car again or you'll never get the jack out. In a pinch I've used normal 2x4" lumber for this... but I'm not a big fan of 90* corners hitting my tires if they don't have to, some ramping is nicer.