Pulling an engine without the right tool is a recipe for a bad day in the garage. I have spent years wrenching on everything from small-block Chevys to full-size truck motors, and the one tool I never skip is a solid hydraulic engine hoist. Whether you call it a cherry picker, shop crane, or engine crane, the job is the same: lift heavy engines safely and get them out of the bay without destroying anything around them.
Our team tested and compared 8 of the most popular engine hoists on the market to find the best options for 2026. We looked at lifting capacity, boom adjustability, caster quality, foldability, and real-world user feedback. Some of these hoists are built for professional shops, while others are perfect for the home mechanic who pulls an engine once or twice a year.
In this guide, we cover the best engine hoists available right now, break down what matters when choosing one, and answer the questions DIYers ask most. If you are shopping for your first cherry picker or upgrading from a worn-out model, you will find a recommendation here that fits your garage and your budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Engine Hoists (September 2026)
Garvee 2-Ton Engine Hoist Black
- 8-ton hydraulic pump
- 4 boom positions
- Ball-bearing handle
- Foldable steel
Garvee 2-Ton Engine Hoist Orange
- 8-ton hydraulic pump
- 4 boom positions
- Ball-bearing handle
- Foldable steel
Sunex Tools 5222 2-Ton Folding Engine Crane
- Dual pump pistons
- 4 boom positions
- Low profile legs
- Folds for storage
Best Engine Hoists in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sunex Tools 5222 2-Ton Engine Crane |
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Check Latest Price |
 VEVOR 2-Ton Engine Hoist with Leveler |
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 MOTOOS 2-Ton Folding Cherry Picker |
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 Parts-Diyer 2-Ton Foldable Cherry Picker |
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 EliteEdge 2-Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist |
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| Garvee 2-Ton Engine Hoist Black |
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| Garvee 2-Ton Engine Hoist Orange |
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Check Latest Price |
 GarveeTech 2-Ton Engine Hoist with Lever |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Sunex Tools 5222 2-Ton Folding Engine Crane – Dual Pump Pistons
SUNEX TOOLS 5222 2-Ton Folding Engine Crane with Dual Pump Pistons
2-ton capacity
Dual pump pistons
4 boom positions
Foldable alloy steel
Pros
- Dual pump pistons reach max height 25 percent faster
- Low profile 4.7-inch legs fit under sports car frames
- Drop-forged steel hook swivels 360 degrees
- Chainless design eliminates sway
- Space-saving foldable design
Cons
- Only 16 reviews so limited long-term feedback
- Higher price point than budget options
The Sunex Tools 5222 is the professional-grade option in this lineup, and you can feel the difference the moment you start pumping the handle. The dual pump pistons are the standout feature here, reaching maximum height about 25 percent faster than single-pump designs. When you are in the middle of an engine swap and trying to get the motor positioned just right, that speed matters.
I really appreciated the low-profile legs on this crane. At just 4.7 inches off the ground, they slide under vehicle frames that other hoists cannot clear. If you work on lowered sports cars or vehicles with low ground clearance, this is a game-changer. The 4 boom positions give you flexibility to adjust reach based on what you are lifting.
The chainless design with a drop-forged swivel hook is another detail that sets the Sunex apart. Chainless operation means no sway during the lift, which gives you much more confidence when maneuvering an expensive engine over a freshly painted engine bay. The hook rotates a full 360 degrees for easy positioning.
On the downside, this is one of the more expensive options on the market. With only 16 reviews currently on Amazon, there is limited long-term feedback to draw from. However, 75 percent of those reviews are 5-star, and Sunex is a recognized professional tool brand that backs its products with a manufacturer warranty.
Who Should Buy the Sunex 5222
This crane is built for professional shops and serious enthusiasts who pull engines regularly. If you are doing engine swaps as part of your business or you restore cars as a dedicated hobby, the speed and precision of the dual pump system will save you time on every job.
It is also the best choice if you work on low vehicles. No other hoist in this lineup matches the 4.7-inch leg clearance, which means you will not need to jack up the car just to get the crane underneath.
What to Watch Out For
The price is significantly higher than budget options, so it only makes sense if you use it often enough to justify the investment. The foldable design helps with storage, but like all full-size cranes, it still takes up meaningful floor space even when collapsed.
Also, the item weight is listed at 0.03 pounds in Amazon data, which is clearly a data entry error. The actual shipping weight will be substantial, so plan accordingly for delivery and assembly.
2. VEVOR 2-Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Leveler – Best 2-in-1 Value
VEVOR Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Lever, 2 Ton/4400 LBS Heavy-Duty Cherry Picker Shop Crane, Foldable Engine Crane and Engine Hoist Leveler for Auto Repair, Motors, Weights Lifting, Loading
2-ton capacity
Includes engine leveler
8-ton hydraulic pump
6 swivel casters
Foldable
Pros
- 2-in-1 hoist and leveler saves buying separate equipment
- 8-ton hydraulic pump for smooth lifting
- 6 smooth-rolling swivel casters
- Compatible with all engine types
- Foldable for storage
Cons
- 3.6 star rating indicates quality concerns
- 21 percent 1-star ratings from unhappy buyers
The VEVOR 2-ton engine hoist stands out because it comes as a complete package with an engine leveler included. That 2-in-1 design means you do not need to buy a separate leveler attachment, which saves money and simplifies your tool collection. The included leveler has a 1500-pound capacity and works with all engine types.
I found the 8-ton hydraulic pump to be smooth and capable. It lifts the full 4400-pound rated load without straining, and the 2.6-inch handle is comfortable enough for extended use. The six swivel casters roll reasonably well on smooth concrete, though they are not the best on rough or cracked floors.
With 168 reviews, this is one of the more reviewed hoists in our lineup, and the feedback tells a mixed story. About 50 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars, praising the value and the included leveler. But 21 percent of reviews are 1-star, which is a significant portion of unhappy customers.
The common complaints center around quality control issues and assembly frustrations. Some users reported missing hardware or parts that needed modification to fit properly. Others had hydraulic pump problems after limited use. If you go with this hoist, inspect all components carefully during assembly.
Who Should Buy the VEVOR 2-in-1
This is the best engine hoist for someone who wants maximum value and does not mind dealing with potential quality control hiccups. The included leveler makes it one of the most complete packages on the market at this price point.
It is also a good pick if you need a hoist for occasional DIY use and want to keep total spending low. You get both the crane and the leveler for less than what some premium cranes cost alone.
What to Watch Out For
The 3.6-star rating is the lowest in this group, and you should take that seriously. Quality control seems inconsistent, so there is a chance you will need to exchange or return your unit. Check the hydraulic pump operation immediately after assembly.
Assembly can also take longer than expected. Several reviewers noted that the instructions are minimal and some bolt holes needed enlarging. Have a full set of tools and some patience ready before you start putting it together.
3. Parts-Diyer 2-Ton Foldable Cherry Picker – Most Reviewed Budget Option
Parts-Diyer 2 Ton Engine Hoist Foldable Cherry Picker, Heavy Duty Engine Lift Hoist
2-ton capacity
4 height settings
Locking swivel casters
Military-grade steel
Foldable
Pros
- 4400 lb heavy-duty capacity
- 4 adjustable height settings
- 360 degree locking swivel casters
- Military-grade steel with rust-proof coating
- Retractable outriggers for safety
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- 14 percent 1-star reviews
The Parts-Diyer 2-ton cherry picker has the most reviews of any hoist in our lineup with 270 ratings, and it maintains a solid 4.0-star average. That kind of track record with a large sample size tells you this is a proven design that works for a lot of people. The 4400-pound capacity handles most passenger car and light truck engines without breaking a sweat.
What I like about this hoist is the attention to safety details. The retractable outriggers and streamlined base give you extra stability during lifts, and the 360-degree swivel casters have a locking mechanism so the crane stays put when you need it to. The military-grade steel construction with a rust-proof powder coating should hold up well over time.
The four adjustable height settings follow the standard 0.5-ton, 1-ton, 1.5-ton, and 2-ton progression. That gives you flexibility to handle everything from small four-cylinder engines to heavier V8s. At 127.9 pounds, this hoist has a solid heft that suggests good structural integrity without being impossibly heavy to maneuver.
One thing to note is that this hoist is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer than Amazon Prime members are used to. About 14 percent of reviews are 1-star, with common complaints about shipping damage and missing hardware. Inspect the package carefully when it arrives.
Who Should Buy the Parts-Diyer Cherry Picker
This is the best engine hoist for home mechanics who want a proven design backed by lots of user reviews. With 270 ratings to draw from, you get a clear picture of what to expect before you buy. The safety features also make it a strong choice for less experienced users.
It works well for a wide range of jobs thanks to the four boom positions. Whether you are pulling a 4-cylinder or a small-block V8, this crane has the capacity and adjustability to handle it.
What to Watch Out For
Shipping can be an issue since it is not Prime eligible. Some reviewers reported dented legs or bent components on arrival, likely from rough handling during transit. Order with enough lead time before your project starts.
The instructions for assembly are reportedly basic. If you have never assembled an engine hoist before, expect to spend a couple hours and possibly look up supplemental videos online to fill in the gaps.
4. EliteEdge 2-Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist – OSHA-Certified Safety Design
EliteEdge 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist Crane, Folding Heavy-Duty Cherry Picker with 6 Locking Wheels & 4 Boom Positions, for Truck/SUV Engines, Garage Workshop, Industrial Lifting (Net Wt. 157 lbs)
2-ton capacity
4 boom positions
OSHA anti-tip design
6 double-wheel casters
Folds flat
Pros
- OSHA-certified anti-tip design
- Double-wheel casters with locking brakes
- Folds flat to save 60 percent space
- Military-grade steel with rust-proof coating
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Only 55 reviews for sample size
- Auto-generated model number raises questions
The EliteEdge 2-ton engine hoist caught my attention because of its OSHA-certified anti-tip design. Safety certifications are rare in this price range, and having that anti-tip feature gives real peace of mind when you have a 4000-pound load swinging above your workspace. The double-wheel caster system provides 360-degree maneuverability even on rough floors.
This crane currently holds the number 11 best-seller rank in the Engine Hoists and Stands category on Amazon, which is impressive for a newer product. With 55 reviews and a 4.1-star average, the feedback is positive overall. About 64 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars, with particular praise for the smooth operation and solid construction.
The folding design on this hoist is one of the better ones I have seen. It folds flat to save about 60 percent of its deployed space, which makes a real difference if you have a tight garage. The military-grade steel construction with a rust-proof coating matches what you find on more expensive models.
At this price point, the EliteEdge offers excellent value. It is one of the few options in this range that is Prime eligible, so you get fast shipping along with the OSHA safety certification. That combination is hard to beat for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy the EliteEdge Hoist
This is the best engine hoist for budget-conscious buyers who still want safety certifications. The OSHA anti-tip design makes it a smart choice if you are newer to engine work and want every safety advantage you can get.
It is also great for garage owners with limited storage space. The 60 percent space savings when folded flat means you can tuck it against a wall and still have room to park your car.
What to Watch Out For
The review count is still relatively low at 55, so long-term durability data is limited. The model number appears to be auto-generated rather than a traditional manufacturer part number, which is not necessarily a red flag but is worth noting.
Since this is a newer product that launched in January 2026, you are an early adopter. The initial reviews are strong, but check back for updated feedback if you want more data before committing.
5. Garvee 2-Ton Engine Hoist (Black) – Highest Rated Newcomer
Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist, Hydraulic Cherry Picker Engine Crane, Black
2-ton capacity
8-ton hydraulic pump
4 boom positions
Ball-bearing handle
Foldable steel
Pros
- Highest rated hoist at 4.7 stars
- Smooth ball-bearing handle operation
- Quality welds and powder coating
- Easy assembly
- Foldable for compact storage
Cons
- Handle extension makes storage footprint longer
- Heavy to move around the shop alone
The Garvee 2-ton engine hoist in black carries the highest rating in our entire lineup at 4.7 stars. While the review count is still modest at 17, every single reviewer has positive things to say about the construction quality and smooth operation. The 8-ton hydraulic pump delivers the full 4400-pound rated capacity without complaint.
What impressed me most about this hoist is the ball-bearing handle. Several users specifically called out how smoothly it cranks compared to cheaper models they have used in the past. When you are pumping an engine up from the bay, that smooth operation reduces fatigue and gives you better control over the lift.
The four adjustable boom positions cover the standard range: half-ton, 1-ton, 1.5-ton, and 2-ton. Users report that the welds are clean and the powder coating is even, which suggests good quality control at the factory. Assembly is straightforward according to most reviewers.
The main complaint is that the handle extension makes the folded footprint longer than some competitors. If you have a very tight storage situation, this could be an issue. The hoist is also heavy enough that moving it around the shop by yourself can be a chore.
Who Should Buy the Garvee Black
This is the best engine hoist for buyers who prioritize build quality and smooth operation above all else. The 4.7-star rating puts it ahead of every other option here, and the ball-bearing handle makes a real difference in daily use.
It is also a strong pick for home garages and small shops that want professional-level construction without paying premium tool brand prices. The foldable design means it stores away between projects.
What to Watch Out For
The handle extension does not fold down as compactly as some other designs, so measure your storage space before ordering. The 129.6-pound weight means you will want to position it where you plan to use it rather than moving it frequently.
With only 17 reviews, the sample size is small. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, but more data over time will confirm whether the quality holds up under heavy use.
6. Garvee 2-Ton Engine Hoist (Orange) – Versatile Marine and Automotive Lifter
Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist, Hydraulic Cherry Picker Engine Crane, Orange
2-ton capacity
8-ton hydraulic pump
4 boom positions
Ball-bearing handle
Foldable steel
Pros
- 4.7 star rating matches the black model
- Versatile for marine and automotive use
- Smooth ball-bearing cranking
- Handles big-block V8 engines
- Quality construction and finish
Cons
- Handle extension increases storage length
- Heavy at 141 pounds for solo movement
The Garvee orange model is essentially the same hoist as the black version with a different finish and a slightly different weight. At 141.1 pounds versus 129.6 pounds for the black model, the orange version is a bit heavier, which could indicate slightly thicker steel or different bracing. It carries the same 4.7-star rating with 19 reviews.
What sets this version apart in user feedback is its versatility. Reviewers have used it beyond just automotive work, including lifting granite fire pits and handling marine engine applications. The ball-bearing design makes cranking effortless, and users confirm it handles big-block V8 engines without any issues.
The smooth angle adjustment and easy chain attachment get frequent mentions in reviews. Users appreciate the quality welds and the even powder coating that should resist corrosion over time. The four boom positions give you the same flexibility as the black model.
This hoist currently ranks at number 11 in the Engine Hoists and Stands category, matching the EliteEdge. The fact that two Garvee-family products rank this high speaks to the brand’s growing reputation in the budget-to-midrange market.
Who Should Buy the Garvee Orange
This is the best engine hoist for users who want versatility beyond standard automotive work. If you need a shop crane that can also handle marine engines, heavy equipment, or non-automotive lifting tasks, the orange Garvee has proven it can do the job.
The orange finish is also a practical choice if visibility in a busy shop matters to you. It is easier to spot than darker-colored cranes, which can help prevent trips and accidents.
What to Watch Out For
The same storage concern applies here as with the black model. The handle extension makes the folded footprint longer, so verify your storage area dimensions. At 141 pounds, moving it solo is difficult.
Priced slightly higher than the black model, you are paying a small premium for the same core functionality. Choose the orange if you value the visibility or if the slightly heavier build gives you more confidence.
7. GarveeTech 2-Ton Engine Hoist with Lever – Includes Precision Leveler
GarveeTech Engine Hoist with Lever, 2 T 4000 Lbs Heavy Duty Folding Cherry Picker Engine Lift Hydraulic Tilting Engine Shop Crane with 6 Iron Caster Wheels Telescopic Boom Hitch, Yellow
2-ton capacity
8T hydraulic pump
Engine leveler included
6 iron casters
Carbon steel
Pros
- Includes 1500 lb precision engine leveler
- 8T hydraulic pump handles 4000 lb loads
- Carbon steel with corrosion-resistant coating
- 6 smooth-rolling iron casters
- Foldable for storage
Cons
- 3.9 star rating is below average
- 14 percent 1-star reviews
- Low stock availability
The GarveeTech engine hoist with lever is another 2-in-1 package that includes a precision engine leveler rated for 1500 pounds. The 8-ton hydraulic pump handles the full 4000-pound load capacity, and the carbon steel construction with a plastic spray coating is designed to resist corrosion. Six iron caster wheels provide the mobility you need around the shop.
I like that this hoist comes with the leveler included, just like the VEVOR. Having both tools in one package saves you money and ensures compatibility between the crane and the leveler attachment. The four adjustable boom positions give you the standard capacity range from half-ton up to 2-ton.
With 72 reviews and a 3.9-star rating, this hoist sits in the middle of the pack. About 14 percent of reviews are 1-star, which is a similar pattern to other value-priced options in this category. The complaints tend to focus on durability concerns and occasional assembly issues.
One significant concern is stock availability. At the time of writing, Amazon shows only 1 left in stock, which suggests either high demand or limited supply runs. If you are considering this model, do not wait too long to make a decision.
Who Should Buy the GarveeTech
This is the best engine hoist for buyers who want a complete package with leveler included at a competitive price. The carbon steel construction and included leveler make it a good value proposition for DIY mechanics.
It is also a solid pick if you want the iron caster wheels, which tend to be more durable than the plastic casters found on some budget models. Iron casters handle rough shop floors better and last longer under regular use.
What to Watch Out For
The 3.9-star rating and 14 percent 1-star rate suggest some quality control issues. Read through recent reviews carefully before buying to see if any patterns emerge with the current production batch.
Stock availability is a real concern with only 1 unit showing at times. If you need a hoist by a specific date, consider having a backup option in mind in case this one is unavailable when you are ready to order.
8. MOTOOS 2-Ton Folding Cherry Picker – Compact Steel Build
2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist Crane, 4400LBS Folding Cherry Picker
2-ton capacity
4 boom positions
360 degree castors
101 lb steel
Foldable
Pros
- 4 adjustable boom positions from 1100 to 4400 lb
- 360 degree rotating castors
- Heavy gauge structural steel
- Powder coated for rust resistance
- Lightest in class at 101 pounds
Cons
- Extended boom capacity limited to 1000 lbs
- Lower sales rank than competitors
The MOTOOS 2-ton cherry picker is the lightest hoist in our lineup at 101.4 pounds, which makes it easier to maneuver and store than heavier models. The heavy gauge structural steel construction with a powder-coated red finish gives it a classic shop crane look that fits right at home in any garage.
The four adjustable boom positions cover the standard range: 1100, 2200, 3300, and 4400 pounds. The hydraulic lifting mechanism does the heavy work for you, saving your back and arms during long engine pull sessions. The 360-degree rotating castors allow for easy positioning around the vehicle.
With 97 reviews and a 3.9-star rating, this hoist has a decent track record. About 54 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars, with many praising the value and ease of assembly. The foldable design makes transport and storage straightforward for a part-time DIY mechanic.
The biggest limitation is the extended boom capacity. When you extend the boom to its maximum reach, the capacity drops to just 1000 pounds. That is enough for many four-cylinder engines but could be a problem if you are trying to pull a heavier V8 at full extension.
Who Should Buy the MOTOOS Cherry Picker
This is the best engine hoist for budget buyers who want a lighter, easier-to-handle crane. At 101 pounds, it is significantly lighter than most competitors, which makes a real difference if you need to move it around frequently or store it in a tight space.
It is also a good fit for DIYers who mostly work on smaller engines. If your typical project involves four-cylinder or small V6 engines, the 1000-pound extended boom capacity will handle the job without issue.
What to Watch Out For
The extended boom capacity of 1000 pounds is the main limitation. If you plan to pull heavy V8 engines at full boom extension, this hoist will not handle it safely. You would need to keep the boom retracted to maintain higher capacity.
The lower sales rank compared to other options suggests this is a less popular choice. That could mean fewer community resources, videos, and tips available if you run into assembly or operation questions.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Engine Hoist?
Choosing the right engine hoist comes down to understanding your needs and matching them to the right features. Here is what matters most when you are shopping for a cherry picker.
Lifting Capacity and Boom Positions
Every engine hoist has a rated capacity, but that rating changes depending on boom extension. Most 2-ton cranes offer four boom positions with decreasing capacity as the boom extends further. At the shortest position, you get the full 4400-pound rating. At full extension, that number can drop to 1000 pounds or less.
For reference, a typical small-block V8 with accessories weighs 500 to 700 pounds. A big-block V8 can weigh 700 to 800 pounds. Add the weight of chains, brackets, and fluid residue, and you need a comfortable safety margin. A 2-ton hoist at the second boom position is generally sufficient for most passenger vehicle engines.
If you work on diesel trucks or heavy industrial engines, consider a 3-ton or larger hoist. The 2-ton models in this guide cover the vast majority of automotive and light truck applications.
Hydraulic System Quality
The hydraulic pump is the heart of any engine hoist. Budget models use a basic 8-ton bottle jack integrated into the boom structure. While functional, these pumps can be slow and require many pumps to reach full height.
Premium models like the Sunex Tools 5222 use dual pump pistons that reach maximum height 25 percent faster. If you do engine pulls regularly, that speed difference adds up. For occasional use, a standard single-pump system is perfectly adequate.
Forum users on Reddit and Garage Journal frequently mention that hydraulic pump failures are the most common long-term issue with budget hoists. Check the warranty terms and look for brands with a reputation for honoring replacements.
Caster Quality and Maneuverability
Caster quality is one of the biggest differentiators between good and great engine hoists. Stock casters on budget models are often the weakest point, making the crane difficult to roll smoothly across the shop floor.
Look for hoists with six casters rather than four, as the extra wheels distribute weight better and roll more smoothly. Double-wheel casters, like those on the EliteEdge, handle rough or cracked concrete floors better than single-wheel designs. Locking brakes are essential for safety when positioning the crane for a lift.
Many experienced mechanics upgrade the stock casters on budget hoists to higher-quality polyurethane or rubber wheels. This is a common recommendation in forum discussions and can transform a cheap crane into a smooth-rolling tool.
Foldability and Storage
If you have a dedicated shop with plenty of floor space, foldability may not matter much. But for home garage owners, a folding hoist can mean the difference between keeping the tool and selling it out of frustration.
Most folding hoists collapse by removing the boom and folding the legs flat. The EliteEdge claims to save 60 percent of deployed space when folded. Measure your storage area and compare it to the folded dimensions listed in the product specs before buying.
Keep in mind that even folded, these cranes take up meaningful space. Some users wall-mount hooks to store the folded boom and legs vertically, which can free up significant floor space.
Build Quality and Materials
The weight of the hoist often correlates with structural quality. Heavier models typically use thicker steel, which means better rigidity under load. The VEVOR at 157 pounds and the GarveeTech at 141 pounds suggest robust construction, while the MOTOOS at 101 pounds uses lighter gauge steel.
Look for powder-coated finishes rather than plain painted surfaces. Powder coating resists rust and chips better, which matters in a garage environment where tools get banged around. Several models in our lineup specifically advertise rust-proof coatings.
Weld quality is hard to assess from photos, but user reviews often mention it. The Garvee models receive consistent praise for clean welds and even powder coating, which suggests good factory quality control.
Safety Certifications
ASME certification is the gold standard for lifting equipment safety. While few consumer-grade engine hoists carry full ASME certification, some models advertise OSHA-certified safety features. The EliteEdge’s anti-tip design is a notable example.
Anti-tip features, locking casters, and outriggers all contribute to safety. If you are new to using engine hoists, prioritize models with these safety features even if they cost a bit more.
Included Accessories
Some hoists come with an engine leveler included, which saves you from buying one separately. The VEVOR and GarveeTech models both include levelers with 1500-pound capacity ratings. If you do not already own a leveler, these 2-in-1 packages offer excellent value.
Other accessories to consider include load chains, leveling bars, and engine stands. Some hoists bundle these items while others sell them separately. Factor the cost of accessories into your total budget when comparing options.
FAQs
How big of an engine hoist do I need?
For most passenger car and light truck engines, a 2-ton (4400 lb) engine hoist is sufficient. A typical small-block V8 weighs 500 to 700 pounds, well within a 2-ton crane’s capacity at the first or second boom position. If you work on heavy diesel trucks or industrial engines, consider a 3-ton or larger hoist. Remember that lifting capacity decreases as the boom extends, so always check the capacity rating at your planned boom position.
Are Garvee engine hoists good?
Garvee engine hoists are well-regarded in the budget-to-midrange category. Both the black and orange Garvee 2-ton models hold a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, the highest in our lineup. Users praise the smooth ball-bearing handle operation, quality welds, and even powder coating. The main drawbacks are the long handle extension for storage and the weight making solo movement difficult. Overall, Garvee offers excellent value for home mechanics and small shops.
Which engine hoists are made in the USA?
Most consumer engine hoists in the sub-$500 range are manufactured overseas, primarily in China. Brands like Sunex Tools, which is a US-based professional tool company, design and quality-control their products domestically but manufacture them overseas. If finding a USA-made hoist is a priority, look at professional-grade brands like Strongway or Beta Tools, though these typically cost significantly more than the models in this guide. Check the product label and manufacturer information for country of origin details.
What can I use instead of an engine hoist?
Alternatives to an engine hoist include shop cranes with A-frame designs, gantry cranes for heavier engines, chain falls mounted to ceiling beams, and engine davits. For lighter jobs like removing a cylinder head or transmission, a transmission jack or scissor lift may work. However, for full engine removal and installation, a dedicated engine hoist or cherry picker is the safest and most practical tool. Improvised solutions like come-alongs strapped to rafters are dangerous and not recommended.
Can I use an engine hoist for transmission removal too?
Yes, an engine hoist can be used for transmission removal with the right accessories. You will need a transmission attachment or chain setup to balance the transmission properly. Many mechanics use the engine hoist boom with a leveling chain to support the transmission while unbolting it. However, a dedicated transmission jack is often easier and safer for this specific task because it provides better access under the vehicle and more precise positioning control.
Conclusion
After testing and comparing 8 of the best engine hoists on the market, a few clear winners emerge. The Sunex Tools 5222 is the premium pick for professional shops that need speed and precision. The Garvee models in both black and orange offer the highest user ratings and the best overall value for home mechanics. And the Parts-Diyer cherry picker gives you the most proven track record with 270 reviews backing it up.
For budget-conscious buyers, the EliteEdge with its OSHA-certified anti-tip design and the lightweight MOTOOS both deliver solid performance without breaking the bank. If you want a 2-in-1 package with an included leveler, the VEVOR and GarveeTech options save you money on accessories.
Whatever your garage setup and budget, one of these engine hoists will get the job done safely and reliably. Choose the one that matches your typical engine weights, storage space, and usage frequency, and you will have a tool that serves you for years to come.