The 6 Best Engine Hoists

This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in October of 2018. Removing an engine from a vehicle would be nearly impossible without a heavy-duty lift capable of safely suspending thousands of pounds. With one of the models on this list you can do so without the aid of 10 of your closest friends, so you can work on your car at your leisure. Many of the units we've selected are also suitable for commercial shops and can stand up to daily use for years. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in October of 2018. Removing an engine from a vehicle would be nearly impossible without a heavy-duty lift capable of safely suspending thousands of pounds. With one of the models on this list you can do so without the aid of 10 of your closest friends, so you can work on your car at your leisure. Many of the units we've selected are also suitable for commercial shops and can stand up to daily use for years. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Dragway Tools Cherry Picker

The Dragway Tools Cherry Picker (appx. $339) has a two-ton capacity for lifting the largest of engines. Three-inch, smooth-rolling casters allow for easy repositioning, even when it is under load, and the entire unit folds up for compact storage.

Heavy-duty chain and hook
Tubular steel legs
102-inch floor-to-boom span

2. Strongway Hydraulic NT32002

The Strongway Hydraulic NT32002 (about $350) comes with a load leveler, yet doesn't cost any more than most other options. Despite this, its build quality hasn't suffered, which is very obvious from one glance at the neat welds and heavy-duty bolts.

Four-position boom
Coated with lead-free paint
Smooth ram action

3. Ironton 84-inch

The Ironton 84-inch (appx. $249) is engineered with a large-diameter hydraulic cylinder that minimizes the amount of oil pressure needed for lifting. This reduces the wear on its components during use to ensure the longest service life possible.

Black exterior doesn't show stains
500-pound capacity at full extension
Backed by a one-year warranty

4. Five Oceans FO-3820-1

If you already have a sturdy overhead beam in your garage and don't need the ability to move engines around when suspended, the Five Oceans FO-3820-1 (around $296) can make your life easier. Rather than having to crank it up yourself, it utilizes an electric winch.

81-to-1 gear-reduction ratio
Tethered remote control
Roughly 40-foot wire cable

5. Goplus Crane

The legs of the Goplus Crane (about $270) are designed to fit between the two front wheels of most vehicles, which makes positioning it right where you need it for safe lifting a snap. It's available with either a red or black paint job and has a 1,000-pound extended-boom capacity.

Six durable casters
Corrosion resistant for outdoor use
Jack bleeds off over time

6. OTC 1820

The OTC 1820 (appx. $5570) is a commercial-quality option that features an adjustable leg spread to provide more stability when working with heavier engines. It is powered via a two-speed hydraulic jack that allows for quick and nearly effortless lifting.

Telescoping boom
Includes an 18-inch chain
Too costly for the average consumer

Last updated by Brett Dvoretz

A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.

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