For times when i don't have to remove a tire (the original post was for a brake job) I have several 17" square pieces of LVL lumber that i either slide under the wheels once jacked or use a 2x8 to drive up on them. makes for a fairly solid surface on concrete, asphalt or smooth firm gravel.
A friend of mine has 2 railroad ties and drives up on those using gently sloped ramps made from a third one. Great for oil changes and other under-car work where access from the front or rear is all one needs.
Would love to one day have a hoist. Maybe if i hit the lotto....

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Earl McLain
'02 C230 Kompressor
'89 560 SEL "Frau BlueCar" (retired April 2004)