Floor Jacks & Floor Jack Adapters

[spect2k]

I'm hoping that this is going to be one of those instances where I realize how silly I'm being and that I've overlooked something basic, but here it is:

 

I have this floor jack:

 

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=94629

 

and this floor jack adapter:

 

http://www.autobodytoolmart.com/grip-pinchweld-jack-adapter-p-12467.aspx

 

 

Now, I am well aware of jacking points on the car, but I've been told and read that you shouldn't use a floor jack directly on the side rails of the car as it can deform the rails. Instead, to use one of these adapters. I purchased it, but can't seem to figure out any possible way of attaching the adapter to that floor jack. I have 3 floor jacks - a silly little useless one, a 2 1/4 ton craftsman, and this nice 3 ton jack - it doesn't fit on any of them.

 

Again, I am well aware of jacking points all over the car, I am aware of the scissor jack, and I am aware of the rubber pads that you can put on the floor jack. I am really just trying to figure out how this floor jack adapter works so that one can jack from the side rails. Thanks!

[rlee429]

Yes floor jacks can deform the rail, Jacking up the car on a slope can cause that. Also depends how old the car is. Try removing the circle metal pad from the floor jack and insert the floor jack adapter. Usually the metal pad can come right off.

[CwhillVT]

I've just been putting my floor jack directly on the side rails. I do this quite often and there really hasn't been much or any deformation. Thats a cool adapter though, i didnt know they made those.

[D_J]

I've seen jack stands that have a "Y" shaped top, so to avoid direct contact with the pinch weld. Though I never seen that adapter for a floor jack, sounds like a good idea. Also got my floor jack from Harbor Freight but mine already has a rubber pad as is - no issues so far.

[spect2k]

I just ordered myself one of these bad boys:

 

[ame=http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002P9N13M/ref=oss_product]Amazon.com: Floor Jack Saddle Pad: Automotive[/ame]

 

It doesn't appear that the metal pad can be removed. I did find out that it can be screwed up and down, but it appears to be held in place and not meant to go anywhere.

[pillboy]

The only thing I jack on the side is our crappy old 210,000 mile Camry. All you're gonna do is mar the paint and leave spots for rust form and slowly work its way up your rocker panels. Now that Easter is here, I might get some of those effin little Peeps to use as pads on my jack saddle and try jacking on my pinch welds.