[v8hed]

As most engine stands support the engine using the bellhousing bolt holes in the block, they obviously can't be used to support the engine when checking bellhousing alignment. I really don't want to purchase a cradle that I will probably never use again, so is there a cheap, easy way of supporting the engine for the bellhousing check? I was thinking about standing the motor on a wooden pallet (sitting on the oil pan), securing it with ratchet tie-downs, then bolt the bellhousing up and doing the alignment. Is there a better or even easier way?

Alternatively, can these cradles be used with the motor mounted 'backwards' so the bellhousing bolt holes are available?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1000L...item2561b40a4b

Thanks.

[DanielC]

I have put the motor mounts on an engine, and then set the motor mounts on wood blocks. You then can "take up the space" under the oil pan with more wood blocks, at the front or rear of the engine. This will keep most of the engine weight off the oil pan.

[SSedan64]

That type wont work.
This type will>> http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Chevy-...ands,2623.html also easy to make & add Casters. The wood block idea will also.

A few others here>> Anybody used an engine cradle?

[v8hed]

Thanks. I like the Moto Feet style stands, but there's nowhere to get those in the UK that I'm aware of. They look easy enough to make, but I don't have a welder.

Anyone got any pics of a motor mounted on wood blocks, just so I can visualise it?

[bigdog7373]

Put it on an old tire.

[poncho62]

Maybe I am going to sound stupid here, but what are you going to do if you find out if your bellhousing is out of alignment? Is there not dowel pins that hold it in position anyways? Dont see the point of the whole exercise.

[v8hed]

Originally Posted by poncho62

Maybe I am going to sound stupid here, but what are you going to do if you find out if your bellhousing is out of alignment? Is there not dowel pins that hold it in position anyways? Dont see the point of the whole exercise.

I need a way to support the engine so that I can check the bellhousing alignment. Yes, the bellhousing locates on a pair of dowels. The dowels are available in different offsets to correct any misalignment between the bellhousing and crank centreline.

[v8hed]

Originally Posted by bigdog7373

Put it on an old tire.

Can't use a tyre as I need to be able to turn the engine on the balancer, so the front of the engine needs to be unhindered and the engine needs to be pretty secure.

[LATECH]

Originally Posted by v8hed

I need a way to support the engine so that I can check the bellhousing alignment. Yes, the bellhousing locates on a pair of dowels. The dowels are available in different offsets to correct any misalignment between the bellhousing and crank centreline.

What kind of car has that?

[SSedan64]

They're available for lots of engines. I know Lakewood makes them, .007", .014, .021" offsets.
Example>> http://performanceparts.com/part.php?partID=22081
More here>> http://www.summitracing.com/search/B.../?autoview=sku

[timothale]

I've make a couple wood boxes out of 2 X 8 lumber, double H shaped' 2 short pieces between the longer pieces and screwed upright pieces that meet the oil pan side rails