These are lessons learned. In the late 80's when I first pulled the engine
out of my BJ8, I used a hoist built from the beams of my garage. When the
full weight of the engine was on the beams, the beams broke (and yes, I
reinforced the beams before I started)! I had to use hydraulic jacks to the
support the beams while I reinforced them again. I took the engine out and
then I bought an engine hoist, chains and leveler design to do the job. I
then put the engine on an engine stand designed basically for a six cylinder
engine. The stand broke, the engine went to the ground, and the exhaust
manifold broke. I then went in search of an engine stand that would take
the weight. During my travels for a new engine stand, I was advised by an
A-H engine restorer and hot rodder that the 3000 engines and transmissions
were heavier then the Ford 427 and Chevy 427 of the time. As a matter of
fact, he had put 427 Ford engines into Healey's because the bell housing and
transmission was compatible with Healey engine and they were lighter. They
would also fit in the engine compartment without modifications (I saw a
couple these conversions and they were scary, but awesome). The Chevy 427
would fit, but you had to get an adaptor for it. I looked for my old notes
for the weight comparisons, but there in a box in the garage somewhere.
After reading about using garage beams, my knees started to shake. You can
use your beams, but the timber has to be big enough for it.
Gary, "67 BJ8
Yucaipa, CA
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