engine support bar recommendations

enotslim · Post by **enotslim** » 30 Nov 2021, 06:26

I'm looking for recommendations for an engine support bar in order to work on the steering rack of a 2004 XC70.

Are two-position supports like below OK and perhaps with some advantages like access from above? Any recommendations specifically for the Harbor Freight or other brand support?
https://www.harborfreight.com/1000-lb-c ... 96524.html

Are three-position supports like below better or even required for some operations like asymmetric loads or anything that disconnects the front engine mount? Again, any specific recommendations?
https://www.amazon.com/Astro-5820-Engin ... SFRI&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/OTC-1725-Chrome- ... B000QER3I2

Thanks.

Post by **abscate** » 30 Nov 2021, 06:51

Ive got the Harbor Freight one in Albany - whats your timeframe? I can loan it out but need to dance around a potential steering rack job myself.

Thanks for your donations to MVS, enotslim

enotslim · Post by **enotslim** » 30 Nov 2021, 08:25

Thanks for the offer but I plan to buy one. They're not expensive and have many uses on many vehicles. Time frame is when I get to it. This car is nice to have but not essential. I commute by bike (or stay home).

Post by **abscate** » 30 Nov 2021, 09:03

I managed to get my engine crane on the household budget by re-boxing it as a shrub puller.

I have not figured out how to market the engine support bar for home use yet.

The HF one works great, buy with confidence.

Mine has done four PS racks and two clutches.

Post by **scot850** » 30 Nov 2021, 10:36

For the P80 the 2/3 bar may not work as the slam panel is plastic.

Neil.

Post by **kallekula** » 30 Nov 2021, 10:48

I've used the support bar from HF several years. It does it's job.

darylrobert · Post by **darylrobert** » 01 Dec 2021, 03:14

I have one similar to the first link, its important to grease the threads

Post by **abscate** » 01 Dec 2021, 05:00

Don’t use S hooks with these, either. I almost found that out in A very costly way. Get some cheap shackles from HF or Lowe’s and buckle the engine up firmly

Post by **volvolugnut** » 01 Dec 2021, 08:24

Treat your lifting device selection with the same care as the jack stands. Both support heavy stuff over your work area. S hooks and dog chains are not safe for lifting. Pay more and be safe out there.
volvolugnut

enotslim · Post by **enotslim** » 01 Dec 2021, 11:33

Thanks to you all. On the HF tool the bar and footings themselves seem solid but I do have concern about the "V" that I assume is welded to the bottom of the threaded rod and the seemingly undersized chain. Seems like, as with most such things, redundancy can be the key to safety. My thought is to use the supplied threaded mechanism as a first line of defense but to add high-capacity (5,000-10,000 lbs) ratcheting straps running over the support bar and under the engine or stronger chain with D-ring shackles in the same position. And I will fit a support under the engine if space allows.