$15 HiLift Jack Mount

Terahex · 12-01-2006, 04:55 PM

I have been searching for a way to mount a Hi Lift Jack to the roof of my FJ. Here have been a few good idea and some expensive ones. However none of them seem to work with my wallet. So time to get creative at the local hardware store

Pipe Claims $13
Longer bolt, washings, and wing nut $2

The chrome polish even gives it a nice professional look.
The pipe clamp has a rubber interior that helps secure it to the roof rack.

The washers I got were too small to completly cover the jack stem. It worked but the washers bent to confrom to the jack stem. I think either larger and stronger washers, or one that can fits inside the jack stem but still covers the jack stem hole used for mounting.

Even without upgrading the washers, I am impressed by how secure it is to the roof. I will let everyone know it is working after my 400 mile business trip next week.

FJR Colorado · 12-01-2006, 05:05 PM

Great idea. Thanks for sharing.

I'd just be a little concerned about the cast piece not being able to support the weight and vibration. If it breaks due to fatigue, that heavy jack will fall on your roof.

Consider reinforcing with some sort of back-up (heavy duty bungee cord, ultra-thick tie-warps, nylon velcro strap, etc.)

Let us know how you make out.

Terahex · 12-01-2006, 05:21 PM

That is a good suggestion. I should do that during my testing. Each cast piece is 3 inches wide to distribute the weight. I think it should be able to support a 30-50 lb jack on a day to day basis. My only concern is with it turning into a projectile in a car accident.

**Corey** · 12-01-2006, 05:24 PM

Looks good.

What size bolts?
If 5/16th, Yakimas plastic wingnuts will work, and you can spin them faster than the type you have, and also get more leverage to crank down.

That is what I used with my shovel and axe mounts I made.

Shovel & axe mounts on the cheap for the stock rack

FJR Colorado · 12-01-2006, 05:59 PM

You might also consider using nylon lock nuts. This would eliminate any issues with the nuts vibrating free and make it less likely to be swiped. Those wing-nuts look like an invitation to ill-intentioned jerks (who may steal the jack, or worse, use it to break in via your windows).

Nice work Mr. Terahex! I love a simple and elegant solution.

tnegiet · 12-01-2006, 09:40 PM

Nice work

**MissFJ** · 12-01-2006, 10:43 PM

What a great mount!!

Quote:

Terahex previously said:

. My only concern is with it turning into a projectile in a car accident.

Hope you never have to test that part out

***Matt07FJ*** · 12-01-2006, 10:58 PM

looks good....i'm still looking for the best way to mount my hi-lift....this may be the most practical....

Son of a Son · 12-01-2006, 11:05 PM

Great work, its about time someone came up with a way to do this that doesnt cost twice what the jack did.

tnegiet · 12-02-2006, 12:38 AM

Here's my $40 option: Stock OEM Roof Rack Tool Mounts

Similar concept. Simple but effective. Although for additional security (minimal as it is) I use hex-head bolt (take off with the lug nut wrench) instead of a wing nut on the front mounting point.