As soon as you have chosen to raise the rear of that classic 1974 Dodge Dart, you have crossed the threshold into the realm of mechanical amazement and vintage charm. How do you accomplish that task though? No matter if you are an old hand at it or just starting out in the DIY automotive world, lifting the rear of that Dart is something that is good to know. Let’s explore the process step by step instead of guessing how to do it.
First things first: Safety!
This is a perfect way to turn a Sunday project into something entirely different. Before you start work, put on suitable clothing that fits well and doesn’t have any loose ends, some sturdy gloves, and a pair of goggles to prevent any possible sparks or debris from getting to you. There’s a reason why you should be careful around older vehicles like this one: their parts are likely to be rusty.
Did You Know?
The 1974 Dodge Dart was among the last models of this series which showed themselves well before the changes in the automotive market caused by new emission standards. It isn’t just a car, it’s a piece of history.
Tools of the Trade
Next up, gather the tools. You’ll need a good hydraulic floor jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, a flat surface (like your garage floor), and the Dodge service manual for any model-specific advice. These aren’t just accessories; they’re essential.
- Floor Jack: Strong and can support the weight of the Dart.
- Jack Stands: To hold the car in place once it is raised.
- Wheel Chocks: This is used to lock the car in place and prevent it from moving.
Positioning the Vehicle
Chock the front wheels of the Dart and place it on a level surface. This may seem like a simple task, but it is important that the car does not move when you are working under it. It is recommended to use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle by placing it under the rear end, specifically at the differential or the recommended jacking point as indicated by the service manual.
Quick Tip:
Always check your vehicle’s service manual. This is because placing the jack on the wrong place can cause damage to some parts of the car and will make what would have been a plain task costly.
Lifting the Rear
Now, using smooth, even pumps, begin lifting. Incremental progress is key. Check that the car is sitting level on the jack stands; if it doesn’t feel right, lower it and try again. Once you get the desired height, put the jack stands under the vehicle and lower it down to them. It is also important to make sure they are properly placed before you move to the next step.
Work Securely Under the Vehicle
Once you have raised the rear you should check that the jack stands are secure. It is only then that you should go under to check or repair something. Perhaps you’re replacing the muffler or setting the suspension to a certain position; both are far more exciting with the wheels in the air.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the jack isn’t lifting the car properly? It’s high time you checked the hydraulic jack and see if it needs more oil or if it’s just plain worn out. If the car doesn’t seem to be secure, then check the jack stands again. Safety should be the number one concern at all times.
FAQ
What is the right surface to use when jacking up a car? The best place to jack up a car is on a level concrete surface so that the jack and stands do not slip.
Can I use ramps? Rams are not the best for rear lifting but you can use them for the initial lift for safety purposes only.
Holding the Tools and The Thoughts That Follow
Done? Un-do the whole thing the way you did it. Take the jack stands off, lower the rear and then lift it again using the jack. This kind of UNORDERLY APAPROACH will not result in any sudden drops thus preserving that Dodge Dart. When you are finished, make sure that all the tools are put away in their right place for the next time and make sure that your work area is clean.
Takeaway
Safety when raising the rear of a 1974 Dodge Dart is not rocket science, it is about knowing what you are doing and respecting the car for what it is. Heed the instructions, have fun, and appreciate that sound of the engine run over when you do some maintenance on it.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Floor Jack | To lift the vehicle. |
| Jack Stands | To support the vehicle when lifted. |
| Wheel Chocks | To stabilize the vehicle and prevent it from moving. |
| Service Manual | To provide model-specific instructions. |
Thanks for taking the time to read this and learn about how to lift a classic car like the 1974 Dodge Dart! As for now, you can check out other interesting and informative articles on this blog; perhaps your next project is just a click away!
