Regarding jack stands, it seems to me that when you go up in load rating, you also go up in size. So 4000 lb stands might not fit under a Civic, even at their lowest setting. For the Civic and other lower ground clearance cars, I suggest getting the smallest jack stands, as they will be more flexible in their placement under the car and tend to keep the car as low as possible, an important factor in stability.
I like both the pawls kind and the shear pin type. The pawls kind are faster and more flexible (smaller height increments) to set up, while the pin type seem simpler and thus more fool proof. But the important part about jack stands is the shape and size of the 'pad' or 'saddle.' It needs to be suitable for the mating positions on the car.
I like both the pawls kind and the shear pin type. The pawls kind are faster and more flexible (smaller height increments) to set up, while the pin type seem simpler and thus more fool proof. But the important part about jack stands is the shape and size of the 'pad' or 'saddle.' It needs to be suitable for the mating positions on the car.