I have a set of UMI 2 point SFC's awaiting install, the only problem is I have no ramps to sit the front wheels on. I have jackstands and a jack but I know that having the front loaded is the more acceptable way to install them.

I was wondering if I could use a couple cinder blocks for the front wheels? I know it's not the safest thing but I figure for the small amount of time they will be supporting the car it should be okay. I would put some jackstands under the car for added safety, I just wouldn't have them supporting any weight.

It's truly a last resort and I wish I could afford the ramps right now but after spending almost $800 in the last month for window motors, rear shocks, oil/filter, hatch struts, wipers, intake elbow and several different tools and accessories, I would like to save just a little money if possible

Thanks

 

Cinder block are NOT safe. For less than $50, you can be safe with some ramps. Calculate what that is worth to you.

 

I know they aren't safe, but it's hard for me to justify the money on ramps when I won't use them very often at all.

Are they just as easy to install on jack stands? It just doesn't seem as the suspension will be as equally loaded on stands as it would be on ramps.

 

Use four spare wheels if you don't want to buy ramps. Wheels won't crumble

 

I got them in just a few minutes ago, I had a loud clunk from the left rear, so I went back and tightened it some more. It seems to be gone now, however I can't get a torque wrench in there to check torque specs, any tips for that one? I torqued the front bolts to 75lbs, is that enough?

If I can't get a torque wrench in there I hopefully can find a shop that will throw it on a lift and tighten everything for a few dollars.

I also used jack stands so I hopefully had everything pretty level

 

Guess I'm the only one who thinks if you use cinder blocks the right way they won't be an issue. If they won't hold up 3400 lbs then how do they not crumble under the weight of a 2-story house?

If you put them the wrong way- "flat side down" then of course there will issues. But two blocks side by side the correct way on a solid floor (concrete garage) should easily support the weight of the car.

I'm open to proof otherwise that blocks used in the correct manner will collapse and cause issues. Just like if you use ramps in your lawn you run the risk of them tipping- using blocks the wrong way will obviously yield potential problems.

p.s.- not looking to start a flame war, just some proof either way. After doing construction for many many years and seeing what concrete blocks are capable of supporting when used in a correct fashion, I don't see how they won't support the weight of a car.

 

I think it's more the point of not recommending it to anyone. We've all done it. God forbid something happens to the poor guy. Just my .02

 

And I just realized I forgot to reuse the damn washer from the original lca, so guess I get to do it all over again

 

From my experience, "cinder bocks" and "concrete blocks" are two different types of block. A cinder block is made from cement and cinders, lighter in weight, and not as strong as a true concrete block. Given the fact that many people might not be able to distinguish between the two, I would never recommend them for use in supporting a motor vehicle, simply on the chance that a badly waterlogged cinder block may have lost its strength. I've seen them crumble when acting as nothing more than a simple low step.

 

How do you like the SFC's?

ramey

 

They seemed to make a pretty good difference, no more squeaks, ride is a little rougher but car is much "tighter" feeling. I had a loud clunk coming from the driver side connector but tightening the bolts more got rid of that so overall I'm pleased for the money.