I'd like to do work on the car myself, for the experience of getting my hands dirty - and that I do love my car, I want to know how it works first hand.

The slope on the hill is quite steep. Slanted downwards, to the aparment. The ground is shale, not payment.

Would ramps, safely, raise the car enough for me to get under the car?

 

If you are going to raise the car, make sure you chalk the tires!!! (put a wedge between them and the road). Last thing you'd want is for the car to start rolling with you underneath it!

 

You might want to use chocks http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chock_%28wheel%29
Chalking the tires will look pretty I guess....

To the OP
A few degrees is okay but it sounds like jack stands would be suicide on a shale slope.
Ramps are okay for some work if you can drive the car on without catching the air dam etc.

 

chalking tires adds 20hp!!!

 

I was wondering the same thing cause my driveway is kind of steep. About 30 degrees or so. I guess chocking the wheels would work but ive always been too scared to jack my car on my driveway lol.

 

i don't think u should do it. you gonna get yourself killed in no time.

 

Yeah I would recommend finding some flat ground at a friends place or something. But, if you're insistent, chock those tires!!

 

I wouldn't do it, sounds dangerous. Go to a friend / family members house imo.

 

totally agree! your safety is always first!

 

 

What do you know about loosening the lug nuts on all the wheels before deciding to jack one side of the car up? I almost had a heart attack. If you're unsure about anything it might help to have someone experienced give you a hand.

 

The way I learned it, you take some weight off the wheel, break the lugs free, then continue lifting the car. I would not loosen the lugs on the ground. You should install in reverse. Torque with the tire in contact with the ground before lowering the full weight.
The first time I put my car up on jack stands I was nervous... after a while you get use to it.
I knew one guy who put railway ties across the drainage ditch near his street and drove his car onto those... And lived!

 

If he doesnt reply in 3 days should we hold a memorial?

 

^^ yes

 

Thread title definately scares me. I personally wouldn't Jack it up on a hill...it just doesn't seem like a smart idea