Engine hoist

[JoeKan]

Does anyone have a Harbor Freight engine hoist or know much about them? I've been looking for a hoist and found a HF but I'm not sure if they're good or not? Thanks for any help.
Joe

[mongocanfly]

got mine from northern tool...they looked very similar..were the same price, but the northern came with a engine leveler...the hf did not

[RustyPile]

I bought mine from HF over 10 years ago.. I don't use it much but I do use it, and it's been trouble free except for one "quirk". The folding leg design is a bit troublesome. It has 6 casters but only 4 contact the floor at any one time. With the legs extended and locked into place, the "middle" casters don't contact the floor which isn't a problem. But when the legs are folded upright, the hoist leans forward a small amount. this slight angle change at the casters makes it difficult to roll the hoist in a straight line. It wants to wander off in any direction except the way you want to go. Kinda like trying to steer a grocery cart that has a bent wheel, only more difficult.

[JoeKan]

Thanks guys. I have a HF about 1 mile from my house. I'm tired of looking at FB and Craigslist for one. Doesn't seem to be a lot out there. I think I can even use it when I set my bed back on the frame.

[Honest Bob]

I have the 1 ton hf engine hoist and its worked great. I used it for moving the motor, cab, and bed. If I had to buy another one I would go with the 2 ton for the extra reach.

[bwl101]

I'm with mongocanfly, I got the northern tool one:

https://m.northerntool.com/shop/tool...0934_200640934

At the time I got it with a coupon it was the same price as the harbor freight one and came with the leveler which has been very useful. So far have removed and replaced 2 engines and have been very happy with the hoist!

[biketopia]

The HF is very capable I wouldn't hesitate to pick one up, my brother has one we use often. If you haven't bought it yet they just came out with memorial day 20% off a single item Friday through Sunday and 25% off on Monday coupon.

[typerr]

I bought my Harbor Freight engine hoist on sale almost 20 years ago and it is by far the best hoist I have ever used. For a short time the hydraulic ram came with a spring loaded wheel for the valve release that allows you to lower the hoist in very small and very precise increments without having to use the end of the handle. I've used mine for several engines plus it saves my back whenever I need to move something heavy. When I bought mine I even split the cost with a buddy but he never needs it anymore so it stays in my shop.