Engine stand modification for storing your motor.

[mtndewmaniac66]

I can hope that this will help anyone out who may have faced a similar situation.

I needed to store a motor, I did not have an engine cradle. I mounted a 1974 Chevy 454 BB onto an engine stand that was rated at 1000 lbs. When I started to lower the engine into position the stand was starting to fold in. The mounting plate was starting to bend and the support beam was starting to lean forward. I decided to use a 6X6 post with a 2x10, and two 2x6s across the legs of the cherry picker to support the engine under the oil pan. But I did not like to support the weight of the engine on the oilpan. I was using my hoist to alleviate the weight. I had to do something quick.


I came up with an idea that would fix my dilemna. I had the iron sitting around, so I commenced to take measurements and prepare the metal. I used 3/4" steel tubing, 2-pieces at 4 inches,

1-1/4" angle iron, 2-pieces at 5 inches, and two pieces at 24 inches. I welded the two 5 inch pieces of angle iron together to make a cradle to sit on the engine stand beam.

I took a measurement to determine my motormount dimension, calculated the angle in degrees, then cut them at 22 degrees, and welded the two 24 inch angle irons to the cradle.

I then trimmed out the other ends of the angle iron to fit the tubes and welded them into place.


I prepped and primed the fabbed support and let sit to dry for a couple hours. I painted the support with three coats of Krylon enamel and let it sit to dry thoroughly. When the time was ready I installed the support to the motor mounts, then lowered the engine back onto the stand. I observed the reaction, and decided that it was going to work. I moved the engine hoist and pushed the engine stand to the corner of the garage. I was pleased with the end result.