http://www.boltdepot.com/fastener-information/Materials-and-Grades/Bolt-Grade-Chart.aspx
Talks about bolt strength. What you have been doing works, <shrug>  I
can't see a problem.

Rob
becida@comcast.net

At 10/16/2009 05:38 PM, Jim Felder wrote:
>1/4-20 threads x 3 supporting a 200-300 lb engine is way, way under
>the strength of all-thread. I've been doing it this way for years with
>waterboxer and diesel engines. They just aren't that heavy. That's 100
>pounds or less on each rod. If this is faulty reasoning, I want to
>know about it, though.
>
>Jim
>
>
>
>On Fri, Oct 16, 2009 at 7:04 PM, Mike <mbucchino@charter.net> wrote:
> >   I wouldn't recommend the use of all-thread to support your engine.  It's
> > only rated Grade 5 and it's simply not strong enough to trust.  Use minimum
> > Grade 8.8 metric automotive nuts, bolts and washers.
> >   You don't want to get hurt or drop your engine, either.
> >
> > Mike B.
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: Jim Felder
> > To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> > Sent: Friday, October 16, 2009 7:48 PM
> > Subject: Re: Friday - engine stand suggestions
> > You can use three arms of a cheap 4-arm stand and 4 or 6 inch iron
> > pipe sections with all-thread run through and the appropriate nuts and
> > washers.
> >
> > If you use standoffs that are long enough, you can get enough room to
> > work on the clutch and flywheel.
> >
> > Jim