Is the Hi-Lift with a Lift-Mate any good?

[Alaska Mike]

Not a bad tool at all, especially if you don't have proper jacking points or wheel with those who are in a similar situation. You never know what you're going to deal with in a recovery.

As I recall, Tom Sheppard uses something very similar with a bottle jack.

 

[thecriscokid]

I have one and think it is a great tool when used properly. I have also seen people strap the axle to the frame to prevent articulation. However that does require being able to get to the axle. Lift-mate is much more elegant IMO

 

[AxeAngel]

Well, I won't always have stock tires/lift. In a couple of weeks I am installing an Old Man Emu 3" lift and 32's. I am choosing equipment with my end build and uses in mind. Seems more efficient to me that way. If it works, why not use it that way? I thought we were having a discussion on the pluses and minuses of the Hi-Lift and accessories. I am taking your opinions into account as well, and I get your points, and thank you for them. Just because I am making my own decision on this doesn't mean that I don't respect your position.

Stick with 2" lift and you will be happier.

-Sam

 

[AxeAngel]

I have one and think it is a great tool when used properly. I have also seen people strap the axle to the frame to prevent articulation. However that does require being able to get to the axle. Lift-mate is much more elegant IMO

This is what I do and lift from the rock slider.

Safe and effective.

-Sam

 

[David Harris]

Stick with 2" lift and you will be happier.

-Sam

This truck won't be a daily driver, really. I'm fitting it out with the view of taking it around the world eventually. I'll be carrying over 450 lbs of cargo constantly on the rear springs, and am converting to a diesel, so with ARB and a 10,000 Superwinch Husky, plus dual batteries and the Hi-Lift up there, I'll be 300-400 pounds heavier in front. I want to carry these loads and still retain good ride height. The 3 inch springs fit the bill for these requirements.

 

[Hill Bill E.]

I had an opportunity to use a Lift Mate last fall, on an F250 buried to the frame in muddy ruts.

Funny thing was, I had my Hi-Lift with, and he had the Lift Mate, but no Hi-Lift:snorkel:

It worked great, considering his bumper was in the dirt. Would have had to dig down a good 6" to get the jack into use.

We jacked up each side, filled in the ruts some, and he was able to drive out.


A Hi-Lift is a great tool, when used properly.

Chainsaws are dangerous also, but when used properly, they are also a great tool:ylsmoke:

I've been using Hi-Lifts for over 30 years, around the farm, cabin, and vehicles, and have never been injured. When they are maintained, used as intended, and used properly, they are a safe tool.

And like any recovery tool, they wear out over time, and should be repaired or replaced.

HB