Ryan Ensby
We hope you love the products we recommend and just so you know that as an Amazon Associate EngineHoist.net may earn from qualifying purchases.
Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a car restoration project, frustrated with the sheer complexity and difficulty of lifting heavy engine parts?
Possibly my favourite solution to this daunting challenge lies in the 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker. Yes, I am aware they come in other weight ratings as well).
A cherry picker, or engine hoist really is essential for any serious mechanic or DIY enthusiast. Their use across the board is thanks to the impressive load capacity, portability, and durability, that is capable of transforming the daunting task of engine lifting into a breeze.
My article today will ask some serious questions of the top four 2 ton folding cherry pickers on the market, ensuring you have the best options at your fingertips.
I’ve done the work so you don’t have to!
The Basis for This 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Comparison Review
Some of the factors we considered when reviewing and comparing the 2 ton folding cherry picker lineup today included:
- Load Capacity: This determines the weight that the hoist can lift. A 2-ton hoist should have a capacity of 4000 pounds.
- Portability: Look for a product that is easy to move around in your workspace. Wheels or casters can aid in maneuverability.
- Construction: The durability of the hoist is determined by its construction. Opt for hoists made from sturdy materials like steel.
- Ease of Use: A good hoist should be simple to operate, reducing the chance of mishaps.
- Durability: Durable hoists are more likely to give you a good return on your investment.
- Safety Features: Prioritize hoists with safety measures in place to prevent accidents.
Overview of the 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Lineup
In this article, I’ll be examining four hoists that are reputed for their excellent performance, reliability and feedback from both myself and other users of them.
Here is the list of 2 ton folding cherry picker models that I will be reviewing:
- Dragway Tools 2 Ton Folding Air Hydraulic Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift
- Goplus 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift, Heavy Duty Steel with 6 Iron Caster Wheels (Red)
- Strongway Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Load Leveler – 2-Ton Capacity, 1in.-82 5/8in. Lift Range
- OEMTOOLS 24830 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker, Engine Hoist, 2 Ton Engine Hoist, 2 Ton Engine Crane, Crane Pick Up, Engine Lifting Chain, Mobile Floor Crane.
2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Reviews
Product 1 – Dragway Tools 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift – Air Hydraulic Engine Hoist
Best for Higher Lift
Detailed Review
The Dragway Tools 2 Ton Air Hydraulic Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane tops my list mainly because it offers a higher lift than many other similar shop cranes.
The closed boom capacity of 4000 pounds and an extended boom capacity of 1000 pounds, makes it a workhorse in any workshop.
I found that the 6 fully rotating 3″ steel caster wheels definetly increased maneuverability, which made it very easy to move the hoist in any direction.
My Ratings:
| Review Criteria | Out of 5 | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 5/5 | This product has a solid load capacity of 2 tons or 4000 pounds, which exceeds the weight of most standard vehicle engines. It even offers an extended boom capacity of 1000 lbs, which makes it quite versatile. |
| Portability | 4/5 | With six fully rotating 3″ steel caster wheels, this hoist can be moved in any direction, making it fairly portable. However, due to its size and weight, it might require some effort to move around. |
| Construction | 4/5 | This hoist is constructed with alloy steel, indicating a sturdy build. The vertical mast is made of premium steel, which enhances the stability and longevity of the hoist. The reported issues with packaging and damage during shipment prevent this from being a 5. |
| Ease of Use | 4/5 | This hoist can be operated via a hand pump or air power, which should make lifting heavy objects relatively straightforward. The product could have more detailed documentation, which might make it more user-friendly. |
| Durability | 4/5 | The steel construction, coupled with a full 1-year warranty, indicates a product built to last. But some reviews mentioned issues with build quality, which might impact its durability. |
| Safety Features | 4/5 | The hoist includes safety features such as a forged steel chain and hook and an 8-ton hydraulic ram to ensure stable lifting. However, there’s no mention of specific safety locks or valves to prevent sudden drops, which are essential safety measures for hoists. |
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Higher lift compared to similar shop cranes – Meaning I can get that engine up and away without issues.
- Folding legs for minimal space consumption – Which I am going to place as a Pro – even though it’s the topic of this article – its still pretty awesome.
- The 1 year warranty is good, as it should definetly be enough time to work out if there are any issues.
Cons:
- While I found the build quality good, the packaging it came in wasn’t great.
- It came with very little documentation included
- Slow exchange/return procedure if there are any issues (as reported by 1 or 2 other users)
How does it review with other users?
Despite a few setbacks, customer reviews highlight the excellent functionality of the Dragway Tools 2 Ton Hoist, particularly its effortless lifting capacity.
Many users praised its easy assembly, and the company’s customer service was frequently commended. With a 1-year warranty, this hoist ensures both reliability and peace of mind.
Product 2 – Goplus 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Engine Hoist
Best for Maneuverability
Detailed Review
From the moment I unboxed the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift, I could immediately appreciate its sturdy, heavy-duty construction. Made of alloy steel and iron, this hoist promises to handle significant weight. The steel frame exudes quality, promising to uphold different sizes of engines up to 4000 lbs or 2 tons.
- Load Capacity: Upon examining the product and its specifications, it seems to support a maximum load capacity of 2 tons. However, having read through user reviews, there seem to be concerns about the authenticity of this rating. This made me cautious about putting its full capacity to the test.
- Portability: This hoist’s six 360° swivel wheels give it great mobility, allowing for smooth transport of engines or heavy parts around a workshop. That said, the all-steel caster wheels posed some challenges when rolling on dirt-filled or uneven floors.
- Construction: The heavy-duty steel and iron construction of this hoist definitely stand out. However, during assembly, I found that some parts didn’t align perfectly, which took a bit of extra work to sort out.
- Ease of Use: The hoist offers four adjustable positions for different lifting requirements, and the folding design makes it compact for storage. However, assembling the hoist did require an extra pair of hands.
- Durability: The steel and iron build promises durability. However, the initial difficulty during assembly due to misaligned parts left me a bit concerned about the long-term reliability of the hoist.
- Safety Features: The sturdy base and adjustable positions provide a sense of safety. However, safety always comes down to proper usage and adherence to safety protocols when operating.
My Ratings
| Review Criteria | Out of 5 | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 4 | When I unpacked the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift, I noticed it boasted a load capacity of 2 tons (4000 lbs), which is pretty standard for most mid-sized engine hoists. What added to its appeal were the 4 adjustable positions catering to different work demands, enhancing its versatility. However, I did come across some feedback from customers suggesting that this hoist might originally have been a 1-ton model, and was simply relabeled. This raised some doubts in my mind about the actual versus declared capacity of the hoist. |
| Portability | 4 | I found that its six swiveling wheels provided great maneuverability. This made it easy for me to move it around in the workspace. However, I also noticed, much like what some customers pointed out in their reviews, that the steel caster wheels could be somewhat problematic on uneven or dirty surfaces. These conditions seemed to limit the smooth mobility I initially experienced. |
| Construction | 4 | When examining the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist, I was impressed by its high-quality steel and iron construction. It felt sturdy, capable of handling different engine sizes. I appreciated its corrosion-resistant, powder-coated finish. However, aligning parts during assembly was a challenge, which made me question the overall construction quality. |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 | I found the adjustable positions and foldable design to enhance its usability significantly. However, I did face some challenges during assembly, mainly due to the heavy parts. It became apparent that an extra pair of hands would have been beneficial, a factor that could impact the overall user experience, particularly if one is working solo. |
| Durability | 3.5 | From my experience with the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist, its heavy-duty steel and iron construction, coupled with a powder-coated finish, gave me the impression of a highly durable product. However, as mentioned earlier, the concern raised by a customer review about needing to bore holes in the base due to a misalignment issue gives me pause. I didn’t quite have to go to that length, but it is does raise some concerns. This sort of manufacturing defect makes me question the potential long-term durability of the hoist. |
| Safety Features | 4 | Based on the heavy-duty construction, CE certification, and adjustable positions, my understanding is that Goplus do place some degree of focus on safety. The product’s durability and stability are essential safety factors. As always, I believe you should always operate with care, and follow safety protocols when using lifting any kind of lifting equipment. |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent maneuverability due to six swivel wheels.
- Adjustable positions for versatile lifting.
- Robust construction with heavy-duty steel and iron.
Cons:
- Potential discrepancy between the declared and actual load capacity.
- Some difficulty in assembly due to misaligned parts.
- All-steel caster wheels may pose difficulties on dirty or uneven surfaces.
Conclusion
Overall, my experience with the Goplus 2 Ton Folding Engine Hoist Cherry Picker Shop Crane Hoist Lift was mostly positive. Its greatest strength is its high maneuverability, making it ideal for a workshop environment where heavy parts need to be moved around frequently. The possible load capacity discrepancy and assembly difficulties are points to consider. However, for its price, it provides solid value, particularly if your primary concern is the ease of moving heavy loads around your workspace.
Product 3 – Strongway Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Load Leveler – 2-Ton Capacity, 1in.-82 5/8in. Lift Range
Best for Precision and Load Control
Detailed Review
The Strongway Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Load Leveler certainly makes a statement right out of the box with its high-grade steel construction and detailed design. Offering a load capacity of up to 2 tons (4000 lbs), it also features a broad lift range from 1in. to 82 5/8in., promising versatility and the ability to handle heavy loads effortlessly.
- Load Capacity: The declared load capacity of this engine hoist is 2 tons. From my assessment and a survey of customer reviews, it seems this claim holds true. The 4-hole reinforced boom allows for lifting at four different capacities, making it flexible to various work requirements.
- Portability: With six 3 1/2in. solid steel casters, the hoist is designed for easy movement. Customers have praised its rolling capabilities even under load and on challenging surfaces such as cracked driveways. However, the heavy-duty steel construction may make it slightly less nimble when compared to lighter models.
- Construction: The high-grade steel construction of the Strongway hoist is impressive, and the lead-free paint finish promises long-lasting durability and resistance to oil, grease, and dirt. However, there have been complaints about missing washers and lock nuts during assembly, which raises concerns about the thoroughness of the packaging process.
- Ease of Use: The hoist’s load leveler feature is designed to handle awkward loads safely and effortlessly. This, combined with the adjustable boom and the compact, foldable design, enhances its user-friendliness. However, it does require some assembly, and as noted, there have been instances of missing parts.
- Durability: The quality of the hydraulic steel cylinder and piston-ram, coupled with the high-grade steel construction and lead-free paint finish, suggests this hoist should have a long service life. However, any defects in packaging and assembly could potentially compromise the durability.
- Safety Features: The product meets the ASME PALD 2009 standard, which indicates high safety standards. The load leveler, which supports loads up to 1500 lbs., adds to the safety aspect by keeping the load equally balanced during the lift.
My Ratings
| Review Criteria | Rating (out of 5) | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 4.5 | The hoist boasts a 2-ton capacity and offers a broad lift range. The 4-hole boom is a standout feature, enhancing its load handling capabilities. However, while it seems reliable for most mid to heavy engine lifting, some users may require a higher capacity hoist for especially heavy engines. |
| Portability | 4 | The hoist offers good maneuverability with six solid steel casters. Customer feedback about its ability to roll smoothly even under load is reassuring. However, its high-grade steel construction could be a bit weighty for some users. |
| Construction | 4.5 | The quality of the Strongway hoist’s construction is evident in its high-grade steel frame, hydraulic steel cylinder, and lead-free paint finish. However, missing parts during assembly somewhat detract from the otherwise high-quality build. |
| Ease of Use | 4 | Despite requiring assembly, the load leveler, adjustable boom, and foldable design contribute to the hoist’s ease of use. Care should be taken during assembly to ensure all parts are present and assembled correctly. |
| Durability | 4.5 | The hoist’s high-quality construction and hydraulic components suggest durability. However, potential issues with missing parts during assembly could, in the worst-case scenario, affect the long-term reliability of the hoist. |
| Safety Features | 4.5 | Meeting the ASME PALD 2009 safety standards, combined with the load leveler’s capability, the hoist provides a considerable degree of safety. |
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Versatile Load Handling: With its 4-hole boom and a lift range of 1in. to 82 5/8in., this hoist provides broad versatility for handling a range of engine sizes.
- High-Quality Construction: The hoist’s high-grade steel and durable hydraulic components speak volumes about its quality and durability.
- Easy to Maneuver: The six solid steel casters provide good maneuverability, making it easier to move around in a workshop.
- Compact, Foldable Design: Despite its 2-ton capacity, the hoist’s foldable design makes it convenient for storage even in tight spaces.
- Safety Certified: Meeting the ASME PALD 2009 safety standards and with the help of the load leveler, the hoist provides a considerable degree of safety.
Cons:
- Assembly Required: Some users reported missing parts during assembly, which could cause inconvenience and potential safety issues if not addressed.
- Potentially Heavy: Given its high-grade steel construction, some users might find the hoist a bit weighty for their liking.
- Higher Capacity Needs: Although it has a 2-ton capacity, users with exceptionally heavy engines might need a hoist with a higher load capacity.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Strongway Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Load Leveler is a well-constructed, versatile, and reliable tool for lifting and transporting heavy loads such as engines, transmissions, and differentials. Its high-grade steel construction, load leveler, and safety certification make it an appealing choice.
However, potential issues during assembly and a weight that may be hefty for some users should be considered. Nonetheless, for its features, safety certifications, and the reassurance of being built in ISO certified facilities, this hoist offers excellent value for money. Whether for a professional workshop or a dedicated home mechanic, it’s a worthy investment for handling heavy lifting tasks.
Product 4 – OEMTOOLS 24830 2 Ton Folding Shop Crane, Engine Hoist
Best for Compact Storage
Detailed Review
The moment I unboxed the OEMTOOLS 24830 2 Ton Folding Shop Crane, I was immediately taken in by its impressive construction. Made of sturdy steel, this hoist is built to handle considerable weight. The steel frame screams quality, promising to support various engine sizes up to 4000 lbs or 2 tons.
- Load Capacity: Upon examining the product and its specifications, it claims to support a maximum load capacity of 2 tons. This is further backed up by customer reviews, praising the authenticity of this rating, adding to my confidence in its load-bearing capacity.
- Portability: This hoist’s six 360° swivel casters provide excellent mobility, allowing for smooth transport of engines or heavy parts around a workshop. However, a few customers mentioned that the casters can pose challenges when rolling on dirt-filled or uneven floors.
- Construction: The heavy-duty steel construction of this hoist is genuinely impressive. Some customers noted minor issues during assembly, such as holes not lining up perfectly, requiring a bit of extra work to sort out.
- Ease of Use: The hoist offers four adjustable positions for different lifting requirements, and the folding design makes it compact for storage. However, as noted in a few customer reviews, assembling the hoist could require an extra pair of hands due to the heavy parts.
- Durability: The steel build suggests durability. However, some customers raised concerns about potential long-term reliability due to initial difficulties during assembly, specifically misaligned holes.
- Safety Features: The sturdy base and adjustable positions provide a sense of safety. However, safety always comes down to proper usage and adherence to safety protocols when operating.
My Ratings
| Review Criteria | Out of 5 | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 4.5 | Upon unpacking the OEMTOOLS 24830 2 Ton Folding Shop Crane, it boasts a load capacity of 2 tons, which is a standard for most mid-sized engine hoists. However, unlike some other hoists, customer feedback confirms this capacity, adding to its reliability. |
| Portability | 4 | The six swiveling wheels provide excellent maneuverability, making it easy to move it around in the workspace. However, some customers pointed out that the steel caster wheels could be a bit challenging on uneven or dirty surfaces. |
| Construction | 4 | Upon examining the OEMTOOLS 2 Ton Folding Shop Crane, I was impressed by its high-quality steel construction. It felt sturdy, capable of handling different engine sizes. However, aligning parts during assembly was a challenge, which made me question the overall construction quality. |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 | The adjustable positions and foldable design significantly enhance its usability. However, some challenges were noted during assembly, mainly due to heavy parts. This could impact the overall user experience, especially if one is working solo. |
| Durability | 3.5 | The heavy-duty steel construction gave me the impression of a highly durable product. However, a few customers noted alignment issues during assembly, raising concerns about potential long-term durability. |
| Safety Features | 4 | The product’s heavy-duty construction and adjustable positions imply that OEMTOOLS places a degree of focus on safety. The product’s durability and stability are essential safety factors. As always, it’s crucial to operate with care and follow safety protocols when using lifting any kind of lifting equipment. |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent maneuverability due to six swivel wheels.
- Adjustable positions for versatile lifting.
- Robust construction with heavy-duty steel.
- Confirmed load capacity.
Cons:
- Some difficulty in assembly due to misaligned holes.
- Steel caster wheels may pose difficulties on dirty or uneven surfaces.
- Possible concerns about long-term durability due to assembly issues.
Conclusion
The OEMTOOLS 24830 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker is a strong contender in its category. While there are minor concerns about assembly and the caster wheels, its load capacity, compact storage, and adjustable positions make it a worthwhile consideration for your shop. As always, ensure proper safety measures are taken during operation.
Buyers Guide – Read this before you make a purchase!
Understanding Your Needs
When purchasing a 2-ton folding cherry picker, it’s crucial to first identify the specific needs of your project. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Lifting Capacity:
Determining the lifting capacity you need for a 2-ton folding cherry picker depends on several factors related to the type of work you’ll be doing. Here are some ways to figure out the right lifting capacity:
- Know the weight of your typical load: The most direct way to determine the lifting capacity you need is to know the weight of the items you will be lifting. If you’re often working on engines or components of a similar weight, this could give you a good baseline for your lifting capacity needs. For instance, the average car engine weighs between 300-500 pounds, but the weight can increase depending on the engine’s size and whether it’s made from cast iron or aluminum.
- Consider the weight of the heaviest load: Even if you usually work on smaller engines, it may be worth considering the weight of the heaviest load you might have to lift. If there’s a chance you’ll be working on a larger vehicle, such as a truck or bus, in the future, you may want a hoist with a higher lifting capacity to accommodate these heavier loads.
- Factor in extra weight: Keep in mind that the total weight you need to lift might not just be the engine itself. You could also be lifting additional components, or the engine might still have fluids in it which could increase its weight. It’s always safer to overestimate your lifting capacity needs to ensure you can handle any task.
- Consider the safety margin: Industrial safety standards typically recommend operating equipment at no more than 75% to 80% of its maximum rated capacity to allow a safety buffer. This means, if you anticipate needing to lift 1,500 pounds, you should consider equipment rated for at least 2,000 pounds.
Remember, safety should always be your primary concern. Always choose a cherry picker with a lifting capacity that safely exceeds the weight of the load you’ll be lifting. Overloading a cherry picker can be dangerous and can also cause premature wear and damage to the equipment.
Mobility:
Consider the layout of your workspace. If you’ll need to move the hoist around frequently, you’ll want a model with easy maneuverability. Look for cherry pickers with high-quality caster wheels that can move smoothly across different surfaces.
Workspace Size:
The size of your workspace is another essential factor. A folding cherry picker can be a real space-saver if you have a small workshop. When not in use, it can be folded up and tucked away, freeing up precious workspace.
Key Features Explained
- Load Capacity: This refers to the maximum weight the hoist can safely lift. It’s usually measured in tons. A 2-ton hoist should be able to lift up to 4000 pounds safely.
- Portability: This feature often depends on design elements like caster wheels and folding capabilities. A portable hoist can be easily moved around your workspace, enhancing productivity and flexibility.
- Construction and Durability: The durability of the hoist is dictated by the materials used in its construction. High-quality steel is often used due to its strength and resistance to wear and tear. A hoist with strong construction can withstand the stress of lifting heavy loads, ensuring a long service life.
Safety Precautions
Safety should always be a priority when using heavy lifting equipment. Here are some safety measures to look for:
- Locks: These prevent the boom arm from accidentally lowering while it’s supporting a load, which could result in damage or injuries.
- Safety Valves: These prevent the hydraulic system from exceeding its maximum pressure, protecting the hoist from damage and enhancing user safety.
- Operating Guidelines: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s operating guidelines and never exceed the stated load capacity. Regular training and the use of protective gear can also reduce the risk of accidents.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance of your engine hoist can significantly extend its lifespan. Here’s what you need to do:
- Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your hoist for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. This includes checking the hydraulic system for leaks, inspecting the boom and lifting chains for damage, and ensuring the caster wheels move smoothly.
- Cleaning: Keep your hoist clean to prevent the build-up of grime, dirt, and oil, which could affect its performance.
- Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the moving parts of the hoist, such as the caster wheels and pivot points, to ensure smooth operation.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
Purchasing from a reputable brand often guarantees high-quality construction and customer service. Look for brands known for their durable products and positive customer feedback. A good warranty is also important as it provides coverage for certain repairs or replacements, offering peace of mind and protection for your investment.
Price vs Value
While the price of the hoist is an important consideration, it’s essential to also think about the value it offers. A high-quality, durable hoist with advanced features may be more expensive, but it can save you money in the long run by reducing
the need for replacements or repairs. Conversely, a cheap hoist might initially seem like a good deal, but if it breaks down frequently or doesn’t meet your needs, it could end up costing more over time. Striking a balance between cost and value is key when choosing a 2 ton folding cherry picker.
How much does a 2 ton cherry picker weight?
A 2 ton cherry picker or engine hoist weight can vary depending on the materials used and the design of the hoist. Generally, these types of hoists weigh between 150 to 300 pounds. High-grade steel hoists, like the Strongway Hydraulic Engine Hoist, tend to be on the heavier side due to their robust and durable construction.
How much can a 2 ton hoist lift?
A 2-ton hoist, as the name implies, can lift up to 2 tons or 4,000 pounds. This is the maximum load capacity, and it’s crucial not to exceed it to ensure safe operation and avoid potential damage to the hoist or the load being lifted. It also depends on how extended the beam is.
How much weight can a cherry picker lift?
The lifting capacity of a cherry picker, also known as an engine hoist, depends on its design and build. They can range from 1-ton (2,000 pounds) to 3-ton (6,000 pounds) models or more. The further you extend the boom arm, the more reduced the capacity is. It’s essential to choose a cherry picker that matches the weight of the load you intend to lift.
What size engine hoist do I need?
The size of the engine hoist you need depends primarily on the weight of the engine or load you plan to lift. For most standard automobile engines, a 1-ton or 2-ton engine hoist should be sufficient. For heavier engines or loads, you might need a hoist with a higher capacity. Also, consider the reach you need and the space you have available for storage when choosing the size of your engine hoist.
