Engine test stand

[428]

Saw these pics on another web site.

Space is a premium in garages for sure and a test stand is not an everyday need.
This guy took the idea of the folding hoist and applied it to a test stand.
He has some things to finish for sure and I'd add some diagonal braces and better casters but the concept is sound.

 

[Danglerb]

Looks like just a cradle, no way strong enough to put a running engine on. Its a bit stronger looking than the $23 model I bought at Kragen, but its just a storage type thing designed to make it easy to move a block closer to the floor and roll out of the way under a table etc.

For a test stand I want to see 2" steel tube etc. A V8 block is NOT something you want dancing around the shop.

 

[jimvannoy]

I agree there is no way I would run a V8 engine mounted on that.

 

[428]

Looks like just a cradle, no way strong enough to put a running engine on. Its a bit stronger looking than the $23 model I bought at Kragen, but its just a storage type thing designed to make it easy to move a block closer to the floor and roll out of the way under a table etc.

For a test stand I want to see 2" steel tube etc. A V8 block is NOT something you want dancing around the shop.

Tend to agree, I'd make it with tubing. We ran my engine on one made from 2 x 2 angle but it was fully boxed. This guy plans on adding the radiator, fan and electrical to it. Like to see it when he's done.

I like the concept though, I may play with it on autocad and see what I come up with.

 

[jimvannoy]

For engine storage I use stands or dollies. A couple years ago a local parts place had engine stands for $24.95. I bought 3. I also use the car dollies HF sells. I get a set of two on sale for $39.95. They make great storage dollies for engines, transmissions, gas tanks, or other bulky stuff and at about 20 bucks each it would cost more in time and materials to build them.

 

[428]

We made these for Pontiacs since no one else did. 1 x 1 tube. They're drilled for casters, just didn't use them.
But you gave me an idea since I have 4 car dollies but don't use them. Thanks.

 

[arkracing]

That one doesn't really look all that safe, but

For all the guys who say that they wouldn't run a V8 on that stand:

I've actually had more than 1 running SBC on one of the roll around storage types (Pictured below). The cradle's that I use aren't even the expensive $59 ones that Summit sells - I get them @ swap meets from the Junk "Harbor Freight Style" Tool vendor for $20

I had a pretty healthy SBC on one in the back of a truck - not bolted down or strapped to anything. It didn't move or jump @ all.

The only scary thing is the flexplate is kinda out in the open - I would suggest making some type of shroud to cover it (out of heavy steel ie 1/4")

 

[66RICH]

I built this one several years ago. 1 1/2" amd 1"
tube, there is no problem with torque rock since
there is no mass on the flywheel. I have since
narrowed the rear track so I can get close with
a chery picker. A friend is using it now.
Rich
That last pic was taken with a 6 deg outside temp!

 

[Danglerb]

Good idea on the wheel dolly. I might give that a try with maybe the addition of a ratchet strap to keep the motor from moving.

What concerns me with the lighter designs used as a test stand is what happens when things don't go well or as expected. A motor out of balance, not firing properly, etc. and it could take some force to keep it from moving around.

 

[ultgar]

Here's a photo of a cheap mobile cart used for mid and rear engined cars that require dropping the engine for service.

 

[mikeatrpi]

And its even Ferrari red!

 

[eschoendorff]

Nice photo Ultgar!!!! Can I come over and play???



BTW.... big FACOM fan here....

 

[ultgar]

Garage is a little further along. Getting ready to dyno this cup car and a 360 Challenge car in a few weeks.

Here's a simple 2-post stand used to hold a 500 lb motor..