I did spend time searching forums, but I did not find info really SPECIFIC to this question.
i have used a 2-ton jack and stands on my old Honda Civic to change oil and such. Now, I have a 2006 LS430 (4000 lbs). I really do not want to buy an expensive 3-ton jack just for use for between 2 and 4 times a year, although I have spent an ungodly amount of time trying to read reviews of different jack brands; i.e. Harbor Freight (Pittsburgh and Daytona), Home Depot, and others. I no longer have that old 2-ton, but I think maybe for these limited uses, I can like a 2-ton trolley jack and lift up one side at a time, securing the car with peace-of-mind 3-ton jack stands.
Is there a reason this is a bad idea? A good idea? I'd rather put the extra money in top-quality parts like Akebano ultra-premium pads. Also, what jack and jack stand brands have people used that keep you very satisfied. So many reviews, the jacks seem fine, but there is always the 10% that scream this jack collapsed and almost cost me my life or something to that effect.

Also, I will be using Akebano brake pads, which I got from NAPA before. Is there a good chance ordering them from Amazon will result in the possibility of counterfeit ones?

Ideas?

 

I haven't seen counterfeit Akebono pads hope that is not a thing. I personally hate trolley style jacks they are not at all forgiving and need a perfectly flat surface even then I find them a bit unstable. I've been using Toyota scissor jacks for many years never lets me down of course I support with jack stands as well. Let's be honest most if not all of these jacks are made in China to a price point which is another way of saying suspect quality.

Do you have the jack that comes with the car?

 

Yes, I do. Good answers.