Engine Removal

[cywagoneer]

Okay, dumb question. When removing the engine what is the easiest and/or most safe way to secure the engine to the hoist. I've seen the lift plates that bolt onto the intake but more often it look like people just use a chain or two. Where do the chains hook to the engine? What type of chain to use?

This is my first engine removal so try not to laugh.

[Bob Barry]

No reason to apologize; everybody has been in the same spot at some time or another.

I usually use a 3' length of 3/8" chain, and run 3/8" bolts through the chain into the accessory-mount holes in the ends of the heads, diagonally across the engine from each-other. For the AMC, it's usually rear passenger-side to front driver's-side holes. I make sure the bolts are threaded at least an inch or so into the heads. Then I grab the chain with my engine-hoist just forward of center of the chain, as the accessories make the engine front-heavy, and I'd rather pull/drop the engine with the back drooping down a bit.

There are other philosophies, but this has worked well for me on about a dozen engine swaps.

[cherokee kid]

I've done several engine swaps using the exact technique,i'ts also cheap.

[243]

Make sure the chain cannot slip when you place it on the hoist hook. If the hook is the large type vs. a slotted, find a way to secure it.

When you raise the engine, be sure to keep an eye on the passenger side exhaust manifold...if you don't, it will trash the heater core housing on the way up.

Don't ask :D

[cywagoneer]

Thanks for the replies, I bought the chain and bolts today and will give it a shot this weekend.

[arter]

I pulled an engine for the first time this past weekend. Since I pulled the engine and tranny together I sprang for a leveller, can be had at PepBoys, et al, for $50. Made the job much easier according to my helper who had done this type of work before. Not to mention the whole front clip was removed. :D
You use it to raise/lower the front/back of the engine to maneuver it out.
Good luck ;)

[cywagoneer]

I have seen the tilters/levellers online ($75) but haven't found anyone that carries them around here. It looks like it would help but I'm not willing to spend that much. I'll try the chain and see how that goes. I was lucky enough to find a used (used twice) Larin 2-ton engine hoist for $75, talk about luck, It still looks brand new.