I just use a sawhorse with a chain come-along on it. Andrew Libby on
the diesel list uses a frame as you describe, but with four sections
of all-thread hanging to below the engine for "micrometer" attitude
adjustment. His is less than $20, including the hoist! And you'd
never notice it under the rear seat.

Jim

On Nov 3, 2006, at 12:03 PM, Zoltan wrote:

> I used to use a 'cherry picker' style engine hoist for removing or
> installing an engine.  I can't tell you how impractical it is to
> install the engine with it.
> There had to be a better way.
> I set down and started thinking to invent one that is perfect for
> the job.
> I made one for the cost of $20.
> Two  4 foot long 2x4 paralell, that lay on one foot 2x4 accross
> each end for platform.  On top I bolted a cheap hand operated winch
> from Harbor Freight in the middle.
> The two foot long strong chain with shackles on both ends for the
> engine lifting holes is the one that the winch gets hooked into.
> Once lifted, you can unbolt the two bolts each side of the engine
> support, then lower the engine, unhook the things you have to and
> lower the engine to a big Tray (not on the ground), that has small
> rope on it, tied into punched holes, to pull it on the ground.  It
> is still heavy to pull but you can.  It slides well.
> I also made a little galley out of 2x6s, onto which I put a 1 Ton
> chain hoist, also from HF, lift the engine up to be able to put it
> on an engine stand, that already has a bell housing bolted to, for
> the immediate acceptance of the VW engine.
> This way, you can do things easy and cheap and practical and don't
> have to store a clumsy cherry picker.
> I wrote this up for all of you who think it is difficult to take
> out and install an engine.
> BTW, when you install, take off one rear wheel and put the engine
> that is on the tray on the side of the car, then pull it into
> position from the side, (not push in from the rear).
> That's it for today.
> Zoltan
>