How to inspect the underside and longs without a lift, now the Not another novice project thread Options

[seanpaulmc]

I've just purchased a '73 914 and owned it long enough to ship it to Orlando and take it to go get titled. With only having it for this short period my list of concerns is growing. I have no intentions of driving the car around until I can assess how rusty it is. I appreciate the support and responses to the questions about transportation and engine identification. This is a superb community.

What advice do you have for lifting the car to inspect underneath and such without having access to a lift? I have read some of the build threads on here and you guys have some amazing shops and do incredible work! ...one day. But, at this point I don't have that.

For now I'd like to lift the car, take the wheels off, and take the longitudinal covers off to get a good look at the structural areas of the car. However, I have concerns because this is a snowbelt car and I've read the stories about putting a floor jack through a rusted out car. Where should I lift with the floor jack (trust the jacking points?, other areas) and where should I put the jack stands so that I can poke around some and get pictures?

Merry Christmas!!!

[seanpaulmc]

Roll over jig

I did not come up with this but couldn't be more pleased. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/aktion035.gif)
Let's give credit where due...

Website:
Restocar.com (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smilie_pokal.gif)

YouTube:
“914 Hillbilly tip-over jig” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QFZxzxtLJc
“WOODEN Tip Over Jig: How to Build One for your Car! (DIY)” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YIZdwXgSao

I won't post the plans, just go to the source, but I will attest that they work.


I only use the most modern of tools.







Adjustments to the design used in my application were:
1. Jigs are sandwiched with 3/4 plywood
2. Legs on rear jig (centerline to ground) are 1-inch longer than the front jig due to bumper locations. Front jig per plans.
3. All member intersections are reinforced (either by the plywood or a truss mending plate).

With a bare or mostly stripped shell, this design handles it with ease. And, I suspect one person would be able to flip it.

Not the case with what I did here. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/screwy.gif) The interior is out of the car, the drive train out, the wheels are off, doors, glass, and suspension remain and we were still able to rotate the car over but it is heavy to get started. It has been up for two weeks and is very stable up on its side.

My welded brackets that interface between the jig and the car need some TLC because I weld like (IMG:style_emoticons/default/stromberg.gif)

This has allowed me, I dare say, to finish the cabin's floor.

Cheers