Jacking up ML?

[pexcellence]

How do I jack up the ML properly to do a front brake job?

Thanks,

John

[ML320guy]

The object is to get the vehicle supported on a solid stand (not the jack.) I like to use a hydraulic jack under the frame rather than the OE jack. Then, I lower the vehicle on a couple of huge blocks that I use for that purpose. Loosen the wheel bolts prior to lifting the truck.

[Tom Hock]

I read many years ago that there is a danger if the vehicle is placed on concrete blocks. A high pressure point from only point contact with the block could cause it to fracture. Whenever I used concrete blocks since reading that, I would put a 2" X 6" X 12" block of wood on the concrete block, between the block and the vehicle frame to distribute the load and eliminate a high pressure point. I now only use steel stands that are made for supporting heavy loads.

[supradupe]

a pair of 3 ton stands cost about $20 from sears, that is way sufficient to hold the ML off the ground. Why risk with the cinder block or whatever that is not designed to perform this task? You don't want the ML to crush onto your hands, do you?

[G-Benz]

I have a set of four really stout stands I purchased from Harbor Freight. Did the pads on the ML this summer and the truck remained stable throughout the project...

[ML320guy]

Thanks for the concern about the use of concrete blocks. Although, I am not using concrete blocks. I've got a couple thick pieces of wood that work great. I still won't actually get "under" the vehicle. They work great for a brake job where I just need the wheels off.

[OhioMercedesBoy]

Sears used to have (might still have) a nice set of 2 jackstands and a hydraulic floor jack for ~ $100. I bought one about 1 year ago and have used the living crap out of them on my cars.
~D.J.~