Abstract: A jack stand apparatus comprising a broad stable base to ensure safe support of a raised object with a selectively positioned vertical support member secured by a ratchet and pawl type engagement mechanism. The jack stand in its free state maintains the pawl in engagement with the ratchet by means of a torque spring which applies sufficient force to ensure engagement of the pawl with the ratchet in any position. This spring biased type pawl ensures engagement of the pawl and ratchet to prevent sudden movement of the vertical support member during transport. A pivot pin handle which carries said pawl and torque spring may be manually rotated with sufficient force to oppose the torque spring thus permitting disengagement of the pawl from the ratchet.