Lifting small block

[Steve D.]

63 convertible

I am lifting a small block to move it forward enough to remove a Keisler 5 speed. I checked the archives and know that there are differing opinions about using a lift plate on an aluminum manifold for lifting. If I were going to use the lift plate, is it ok to use the studs and nuts that are used for the carburetor, or should I remove the studs and use bolts to secure the lift plate?

Steve

[Richard M.]

Re: Lifting small block

Steve,

My opinion, the more you remove and insert threaded objects in and out of aluminum hole, you tend to wear out the threads even more. You don't know the condition of those threads, and how many times others have potentially "screwed" them up. If you're going to do it, leave the studs, use thick flat washers and nuts for the lift plate. I pray that you will be safe.

But......IMO, don't do it. Use the corner intake manifold bolt positions. Remove them and use longer 3/8 bolts with washers, attached to chains to your engine hoist.

Rich

[Joe R.]

Re: Lifting small block

63 convertible

I am lifting a small block to move it forward enough to remove a Keisler 5 speed. I checked the archives and know that there are differing opinions about using a lift plate on an aluminum manifold for lifting. If I were going to use the lift plate, is it ok to use the studs and nuts that are used for the carburetor, or should I remove the studs and use bolts to secure the lift plate?

Steve

Steve,

I used the lift plate on aluminum intake method to remove my big block engine. I think it's pretty safe. But other folks have differing opinions.

Joe

[Jim T.]

Re: Lifting small block

I have used about a 2 inch wide nylon fiber type strap long enough to loop through both exhaust manifolds connected to the hoist to lift up the engine. Did not have to remove the carb to do the lifting. Wish I had not of loaned this strap out.

[David A.]

Re: Lifting small block

when we pulled my son's 289
out of his '66 mustang,
we used the manifold bolts to be sure.
i like the idea of the nylon strap/manifold way tho!!
iowa

[William L.]

Re: Lifting small block

When removing a small block I've been using a SEAT BELTwith no problems. I bolt it on the corners of the intake or block- both work well. Put the lifting hook through the webbing -when done just just unhook,plus the webbing is forgiving(no scratches). Bill Lehmann

[Paul Y.]

Re: Lifting small block

Having them tight by shimming with washers and/or large nuts is also wise so you get minimum side force pulling on the studs or bolts you use. I just pulled and reinstalled my 63 Fuely by the adapter studs but they were straight up perpendicular and I shimmed them so there were no sideways force put on them. I was using an engine leveler. It was kind of a pucker as I sure would hate to see one or more pull out of the aluminum. Cast iron is one thing and aluminum is quite another.

[Paul J.]

Re: Lifting small block

Steve,

I've seen people use a lift plate without any problems, but if you do, remove the studs and use bolts. Do not use a stack of washers. I prefer to use any bolt holes that I can find in the block, which are usually the manifold bolt holes. John Hinkley pointed out to me in this forum that they lifted completed engines at the plant by the manifolds.

Do not use a seat belt. The nylon fabric is designed for an instantaneous loading and not a sustained lift. Dale Earnhardt was killed by the failure of this webbing. In addition, the yarn used in seat belts has a special coating to eliminate friction and make it slippery. If you use a fabric belt, use one rated for lifting.

Paul