Lifting your car

[Davey]

I have mixed feelings on this. Way back when I did my apprenticeship as a light vehicle mechanic we regularly used to jack up minis, 1100s, 1300s, 1800s and even Princesses under the sump (cast alloy on manual boxes and pretty thick so could take the weight but don't try it on a slusher ) . 1800s and Princesses were big heavy cars around 1250KGs or so and we would regularly lift the entire front end off the ground by a jack under the sump/gearbox.

Nowadays I'd be very hesitant to do anything like this. The engine mountings are designed to handle static loads of 200KGS maximum in a downward, compression mode. To hang three (or more) times this weight off them in tension which they aren't entirely designed to handle might not be such a good idea.

I've lifted my beast (including 200KGs of V6 power plant) on and off trestles several times by putting a chain around the front chassis members which I feel is a much safer bet.

D.

[mr henderson]

Rather than chains, I would use some polypropylene rope, such as is sold in diy stores. I would use several thicknesses in a loop going round the upper shock absorber mountings and the hook. This is how I use to lift kit cars until I got a jack that was big enough to lift a car in one go (substantial board under the front of the chassis).

I used to use one of those race car quick lift doodahs, easy to make if you don't fancy buying one but ideal as lift car just enough to get wheels off and they are secure.
Straps borrowed from eddie's trucks are ideal too

[twinturbo]

I use my crane round the front chassis member on sierras to get em nice and high. Most cranes should easily take the full weight of a roadster

TT

[Davey]

Good point about using a strap or rope, I only used my chain as I have it and my chassis isn't painted yet so it won't do any damage.

D.

[davidimurray]

Thanks for all the tips and advice. Will lift the engine in and invest in some straps.

[RAYLEE29]

Hi, my car is sat on two B/D workmates with all the running gear and body work seats etc and i have had occasion to lift the front by using the engine lifting eyes and had no problems.
But for safety I would suggest lifting or lowering using a beam below the chassis and slinging from that.
Ray