I was wondering--as far as value, quality compared to price, what brand/weight do you guys recommend getting for a jack and jack stands (how many jack stands, too?). The only car I have I'll be working on is the 'stang, if that's a factor.
I just purchased a Craftsman 4 ton jack ($150 at Sears) to assist me with the install of a MGW short shifter. Was it too much or over kill? Mostly likely, seeing as the entire car doesn't weigh 4 tons. But it felt solid and the last thing I want is a flimsy jack serving as backup while I'm under the car (jack stands being primary). I'm a belt and suspenders kind of guy and I don't have nearly enough life insurance.
As far as jack stand? Buy them in pairs. Although I personally would never put a car on 4 jack stands at one time. Anything that requires the car to be on 4 stand should be done on a lift.
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2006 Mustang V6 Deluxe - Redfire MGW Short shifter, FRPP Dual Exhaust, ASP Under Pulley, C&L Intake, Bama Tune, Eibach Pro-kit, Ultimate Pedals aluminum pedals
A jack is definately one thing you do not want to go cheap on. We have a Walker brand jack that we use around here, its old but is high quality and has never gave any trouble. Also as these guys said, buy at least two jackstands to have around as well, don't get under your car with just a jack holding it up.
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Jacks? - 
