Positioning a motor so that a mechanic is able to work on it is done with an engine stand. It allows you to spin the engine for easier access to all parts of the engine. As simple as they seem, if you have never used one, it could go wrong if it’s not used correctly. Here’s some information on how to use an engine stand:
Table of Contents
Getting the Motor on the Engine Stand
Think about safety when using your stand. Be aware of your surroundings in the workspace. Check for oil spills or other liquids that can cause you to slip and fall. Being aware of your surroundings before starting will allow you to use your equipment safely.
Using the Right Tools
You may need to utilize a few different tools to lift the engine to the stand. You must have a way to hoist the engine into position to mount the bracket into the stand. There are a couple of ways to do this: a cherry picker hoist or a chain hoist mounted to the ceiling of your workspace. Cherry picker hoists give you the most movement after the engine is on.
Before doing the job, inspect all of your equipment. Check the welds, tube steel, chains, and moving parts of the tools. They make oil catch pans that fit at the base of the stand to keep your workspace clean.
Chains or nylon straps hook to the engine so you can lift it with the hoist. Inspect tools to prevent injury or damage to the engine. Always use a chain or strap rated for the weight you will be lifting. Use the right-sized bolts to mount the stand bracket to the engine. If you use the bolts from your transmission, use space washers. High-quality bolts are necessary to prevent breakage on the stand. The engine’s existing bolts should be strong enough for this job.
Mounting the Engine Stand
Here is a breakdown of the mounting process for your engine stand:
- Remove the mounting bracket.
- With the engine sturdy on the ground and hooked to the hoist, mount the bracket to the back of the engine. Go straight out or on a slight downward angle.
- The bracket mounts up where the transmission attaches to the engine. Use the top two holes and one on each side.
- Using the bolts, attach the mount to the engine.
- Hoist the engine to get the bracket back into the stand.
- Set everything into place and use the lock-in devices to secure everything.
- Push the stand where you want to work on it and put the oil catches down.
Understanding Engine Stand Types
There are many different types of stands available at a wide price range. Some have a U-shaped or T-shaped base with wheels for mobility. Stands that fold down for easier storage are also available. You can even get a stationary stand for a more permanent workstation. A convenient mounting system is a four-armed bracket that rotates 360 degrees. Heavier engines take stands that mount on the front and back. These allow for weights over 2000 pounds and still give you full rotation.
Finding the Best Stand for Your Needs
Knowing what you plan to do in the future helps you understand what kind of product you need. Determine if this is a garage hobby where you will occasionally work with engines or if you are a business owner wanting to use it at your repair shop. If you have some bigger rigs, working on them in-house will save money.
A smaller, cheaper stand is best if you’re working on personal projects. Spend more money on a larger stand if you’re wanting to make a living fixing engines. Heavy-duty jobs take a more robust stand with dual brackets. Think about how much you’ll use the stand and how much weight you need it to hold. Understanding these elements will give you a good idea of how much you want to spend. You will also have a good idea of what size you’ll need for the jobs you’ll be doing.
Purchase Heavy-duty Tools and Equipment
With the help of an engine stand, you will be able to work on various mechanical projects. A stand will help make your job easier and reduce the stress on your body from lifting heavy engines. It will also help prevent mishaps from injury in an unstable work area where the motor can fall. Find a quality engine stand today.
