If you’re an at-home mechanic or DIY enthusiast, you know how important it is to have the right tools for the job. One tool that can make your life easier is a DIY engine hoist. Engine hoists allow you to lift and remove engines from vehicles, making repairs and replacements much more manageable.
When it comes to purchasing a DIY engine hoist, there are a few things you should consider. First and foremost is weight capacity. You’ll want to make sure the hoist you choose can handle the weight of the engine you plan to lift. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the design and construction of the hoist. A sturdy, well-built hoist will be safer and more reliable, allowing you to work with confidence.
Whether you’re an experienced mechanic or just starting out, a DIY engine hoist can be an invaluable tool. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best DIY engine hoists on the market, comparing their features and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Let’s get started by examining some of the critical features to look for when choosing a DIY engine hoist.
By the way here are some other DIY automotive tools you might like.
Best DIY Engine Hoists
If you’re planning on tackling a big engine project, you’re going to need the right tools. One of the most important tools you’ll need is a reliable engine hoist. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best DIY engine hoists available. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, these hoists will help you get the job done safely and efficiently.
OTC 2004 4,000 lb. Capacity Folding Engine Hoist / Shop Crane 4000 Pounds
If you’re looking for a durable and productive engine hoist for your garage or shop, the OTC 2004 4,000 lb. Capacity Folding Engine Hoist / Shop Crane 4000 Pounds is a great choice.
Pros
- This crane has a 4,000 lb. capacity with the boom fully retracted and a 1,000 lb. capacity with the boom at full extension, giving you the flexibility to lift a wide range of engines and other heavy objects.
- The crane has a 46 inch maximum reach with boom fully extended, 25 inch maximum reach with boom fully retracted, making it easy to position and lift heavy objects in tight spaces.
- The large 3-1/2 inch front wheels and 5-7/8 inch casters provide ease of mobility and allow fine tuning of crane position while in use, making it easy to move the crane around your garage or shop as needed.
Cons
- The crane folds into a compact, upright package for storage, but it’s still fairly large and may not fit easily in smaller garages or shops.
- Some users have reported issues with the hydraulic ram not lasting very long, so it may be necessary to replace the ram after extended use.
- The crane may not be large enough to lift certain types of truck engines, so it’s important to check the specifications and make sure it will work for your needs before purchasing.
The OTC 2004 4,000 lb. Capacity Folding Engine Hoist / Shop Crane 4000 Pounds is a well-built and versatile engine hoist that is sure to be a valuable addition to any garage or shop. Whether you’re lifting engines, heavy machinery, or other objects, this crane has the power and flexibility you need to get the job done quickly and easily. With its high-quality materials and precision engineering, you can be confident that this crane will provide years of reliable service.
So if you’re in the market for a new engine hoist, be sure to check out the OTC 2004 4,000 lb. Capacity Folding Engine Hoist / Shop Crane 4000 Pounds today!
Vestil EHN-60-T Yellow Engine Hoist Telescopic Legs, 6000 lb. Capacity
If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable engine hoist, the Vestil EHN-60-T is a great option for you. With its telescopic boom and high-capacity hydraulic cylinder, it can handle a variety of lifting applications with ease.
Pros
- Telescopic boom with four settings for different lifting heights and capacities
- Boom is raised and lowered with a manual hydraulic hand pump
- High-capacity hydraulic cylinder provides for faster lifting action
Cons
- No foldable feature for storage
- Heavy at 330 pounds
- Some quality control issues reported by customers
The Vestil EHN-60-T is a heavy-duty engine hoist that can lift up to 6000 pounds. It features a telescopic boom with four different settings for different lifting heights and capacities, making it versatile for a variety of lifting applications. The boom is raised and lowered with a manual hydraulic hand pump, and the high-capacity hydraulic cylinder provides for faster lifting action. However, it does not fold for storage and is quite heavy at 330 pounds. Some customers have reported quality control issues, such as missing parts and nicks and chips in the paint.
If you need a reliable engine hoist for heavy lifting, the Vestil EHN-60-T is a great choice for you. However, if you’re looking for something more lightweight and compact, you may want to consider other options.
VEVOR Folding Engine Crane
Looking for a DIY engine hoist? The VEVOR Folding Engine Crane may be worth considering.
Pros
- With a 4400 lbs lifting capacity, this crane is capable of lifting heavy loads.
- The foldable design makes it easy to store and transport when not in use.
- The thicker steel material ensures durability and a long service time.
Cons
- Some customers reported issues with missing hardware and poor packaging upon delivery.
- Assembly instructions are not included, which could make setup difficult for some users.
- At 131 pounds, this crane may be heavy and difficult to move around for some users.
The VEVOR Folding Engine Crane features a fast lifting speed and versatile applications, making it a great option for those in need of a reliable engine hoist. However, some users have reported issues with missing hardware and poor packaging upon delivery, and assembly instructions are not included. Additionally, at 131 pounds, this crane may be heavy and difficult to move around for some users. Overall, if you’re in need of a heavy-duty engine hoist, the VEVOR Folding Engine Crane may be worth considering.
Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift
If you’re looking for a reliable engine hoist for your garage, the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift is a great choice. Its high-quality steel construction, adjustable boom, and folding design make it a practical and versatile tool for any automotive or repair shop.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable construction with a 4000 lbs closed boom capacity and 1000 lbs extended boom capacity
- Six 360-degree swiveling wheels provide maximum maneuverability and easy transportation
- Adjustable boom with four positions and a load leveler for different lifting heights and capacities
Cons
- The assembly process may require some help due to the weight and size of the parts
- Some users have reported issues with the bolts breaking during assembly
- The instructions may not be very clear or detailed
The Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift is a practical and useful tool for any garage or repair shop. Its sturdy construction and adjustable boom make it suitable for a wide range of lifting and support tasks, while its folding design and swiveling wheels allow for easy transportation and storage. However, the assembly process may require some help and the instructions may not be very clear or detailed. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile engine hoist, the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift is definitely worth considering.
HTTMT Engine Motor Hoist Cherry Garage Lifting Picker Crane Lift
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable engine hoist that can lift almost any gas engine or smaller diesel engine, the HTTMT Engine Motor Hoist Cherry Garage Lifting Picker Crane Lift is a great option for you.
Pros
- Heavy gauge structural steel construction ensures durability and safety, with a 4000 lb closed boom capacity and 1000 lb extended boom capacity
- Adjustable positions and easy storage with 4 adjustable positions for different work needs and an 8-ton ram hydraulic cylinder, plus a foldable design for easy storage
- 360ยบ swiveling wheels for maximum maneuverability and easy movement of heavy parts
Cons
- Some users have reported missing bolts and parts upon delivery
- The side braces can be difficult to bend to shape and connect
- Some holes may not line up during assembly
The HTTMT Engine Motor Hoist Cherry Garage Lifting Picker Crane Lift is a versatile and practical option for those in the auto repair shop, workshop, warehouse, wharf, construction industry, and more. Its powder-coated finish makes it corrosion-resistant and anti-rust, ensuring it can be used both indoors and outdoors. With its excellent durability and long service life, this engine hoist is a great investment for any DIY enthusiast or professional mechanic.
Buying Guide
If you’re planning to build your own engine hoist, there are a few things you should consider before starting your project. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of your engine hoist is one of the most important factors to consider. You need to make sure that the hoist is capable of lifting the weight of your engine. Look for hoists with weight capacities of at least 1,000 pounds.
Construction Materials
The materials used in the construction of your engine hoist will affect its durability and strength. Look for hoists made from high-quality steel or aluminum. These materials are strong and durable, and will hold up well over time.
Adjustability
Consider the adjustability of the engine hoist. Look for hoists with adjustable legs and booms. This will allow you to adjust the height and reach of the hoist to suit your needs.
Portability
If you plan to move your engine hoist around frequently, look for hoists with wheels. This will make it easier to move the hoist from one location to another.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the engine hoist. Look for hoists that offer good value for money. Don’t be tempted to go for the cheapest option, as this may compromise on quality and safety.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | High |
| Construction Materials | High |
| Adjustability | Medium |
| Portability | Medium |
| Price | Low |
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