An engine crane lifts and installs engine blocks, but is not manufacturer specific and cannot lift heavy industrial engines. It has a main lift arm powered by a hydraulic pump and is equipped with omnidirectional caster wheels for easy movement. It should not be used to store engine blocks.
An engine crane is a piece of automotive repair equipment that lifts a vehicle’s engine block or installs an engine block in a vehicle. An engine crane is capable of lifting various types of engine blocks with multiple lift point configurations. Unlike an engine mount, an engine crane is typically not manufacturer specific. An engine crane built for smaller passenger vehicle engines is not capable of lifting heavy industrial engine equipment engines. Engine hoists are not a suitable substitute for engine mounts, and are only intended to support the weight of an engine for a short period of time.
Most engine cranes follow a basic design featuring a main lift arm, which moves vertically, powered by a hydraulic pump that is actuated by a lever at the base of the crane. At the apex of the lift arm is an extender that extends out over the engine compartment of a vehicle. A chain attaches to a loop at the front end of the extender and also attaches to the engine at the lift points. Lifting points are usually located on the intake manifold and cylinder heads. The chain must be equipped with engine mounting bolts as they provide the thickness and length to prevent fracture.
The crane is built with twin legs that have omnidirectional caster wheels so the crane can be easily moved. A mechanic should use caution when moving a crane loaded with an engine around the shop because the engine will swing under the lift arm like a pendulum and can cause serious injury. An engine should never be lifted from a vehicle by one person.
Before removing an engine from a vehicle, a mechanic should prepare the area for free movement of the engine hoist around the vehicle and shop. The engine mount should be positioned as close as possible to the area where engine removal will take place. Engine cranes should not be used to transport engines further than necessary, so a mechanic should ensure that a suitable engine mount is ready.
Engine cranes must not be used to store engine blocks. The weight of an engine will stress both the crane and the common lifting points on top of the engine. The bolts that secure the chain to the engine can be sheared. This would require a machinist to re-plug and die the bolt holes, delaying engine repair.
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