Just curious as to what folks are doing to support the engine and take its weight off the engine mounts so that you can drop the main cross member to get access to the oil pan. I'm sitll chasing oil leaks and have decided to tackle the oil pan gasket next.
I found an engine support bar on the internet for about $100 designed to do that, but want to know if there is a more cost effective way to suspend the engine.
Any info or suggestions would be appreciated.
This job is also on my list - a racer told me last week that some guys use a 4x4, cut to proper length so it sits where the "fancy" engine support bar would sit. Some threaded rod, large washers and wing nuts, a few links of chain, you're in business.
On the other hand, a ready-made hoist beam might be worth the money if you factor in your time, procuring materials, assembly, etc. Harbor Freight sells them for $60 or so.
I forget how much I paid for mine but it was less than $100. If you are going to be under the car, I would buy the right tool.
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Thanks guys.
I ended up ordering one off the Internet. With shipping added, the total came to $115.
I can't quite tell from the pictures - how exactly does this tool work? In other words, what is it that holds up the weight of the engine? Thanks.
<!--quoteo(post=81723:date=Oct 12 2009, 06:47 PM:name=Cloud9...68)-->QUOTE (Cloud9...68 @ Oct 12 2009, 06:47 PM)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}><!--quotec-->I can't quite tell from the pictures - how exactly does this tool work? In other words, what is it that holds up the weight of the engine? Thanks.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
The support is simply a beam that sits on the fender seams. There is a bolt through the beam with a nut on the top side of the bolt. When you turn the bolt, you draw the bolt upwards. That bolt has a chain linked from it to the lifting hook on the top of the 968 motor. You use the support to lift the engine enough to take the load off of the motor mounts, which then allows you to drop the crossmember that normally carries the load of the engine mounts.
I was told that the oil pan gasket was a $700+ job (same pesky oil leaks here) precisely because you have to pull the cross member. And may as well do the motor mounts while your in there - oh, and the rod bearings. Is pulling it that big a deal? You guys make it look pretty simple with that beam.