Ryan Ensby
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Types of Engine Hoists (US): What to Use for an Engine Pull
If you’re removing an engine in a home garage, the “type” you want most of the time is a hydraulic shop crane (also called an engine hoist, engine crane, or cherry picker). The other hoist types (chain hoists, electric hoists) can work in certain setups, but they usually require a solid overhead mount and don’t give you the same mobility around a vehicle.
Quick pick: for most DIY engine pulls, buy or rent a folding 2-ton hydraulic shop crane, then choose your boom position based on reach + rating at that position.
The 4 “engine hoist” categories people confuse
1) Hydraulic shop crane (most common for engine pulls)
This is what most people mean by “engine hoist”. It’s on wheels, you pump it up with a jack handle, and you can roll it around the car.
- Best for: removing/instaling engines in a garage or driveway.
- Strength: mobility and simple setup.
- Watch-outs: capacity drops as the boom extends. Don’t buy on the “2-ton” headline alone.
Related: Best engine hoist (spec-first)
2) Chain hoist (overhead, manual)
A chain hoist lifts by pulling a hand chain. It can be very capable, but it needs a safe overhead anchor point (beam, trolley, gantry, etc.).
- Best for: shops with a proper overhead beam/trolley setup.
- Strength: simple, no electricity needed.
- Watch-outs: not mobile around a vehicle unless paired with a gantry/trolley system.
3) Electric hoist (overhead, powered)
Electric hoists are great when you already have a safe overhead mount. Many consumer electric hoists are aimed at lighter lifting. For engine handling, the limiting factor is often the anchor point and safe setup, not just the motor.
- Best for: controlled overhead lifting with proper mounting.
- Strength: easier lifting, less manual effort.
- Watch-outs: installation requirements and duty cycle, plus safe load control.
4) Engine leveler (not a hoist, but often essential)
A load leveler helps you tilt the engine as you pull it. It does not replace a hoist, but it can be the difference between “it won’t come out” and a smooth pull.
- Best for: engine + transmission pulls, tight bays, and controlled tilting.
- Watch-outs: levelers steal some hook height.
How to choose the right hoist for your situation
Reach + boom-position rating
Most garage hoists are derated by boom position. The more reach you need, the lower the rating at that hole.
Related: How big of an engine hoist do I need?
Hook height vs boom/crane height
Don’t get fooled by height specs. For engine pulls, you care about hook height with your rigging installed.
Related: How high can an engine hoist lift?
Rigging and attachment points
Rent vs buy (often the smartest decision)
If you only need an engine hoist for a one-time job, renting is often cheaper than buying and storing it.
Troubleshooting (if your hoist won’t lift)
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