Thanks for the pointers. When I got serious about my car work I invested in a floor jack and a good set of jackstands. I had a set of the inexpensive jackstands you mention I used as a safety measure when changing tires years ago. Didn't take long to realize they were false security...

I ended up resting the car on the front and rear "A frames" as far outboard as possible. It is very stable.

The four speed would be fun, but for now at least I'll stick with the automatic and concentrate on getting it back on the road. Again thanks.

Randy