Engine Cradle for 500

[mgbeda]

Hi Everybody,

I'm almost ready to pull the engine out of ol' Bessie (my '76 SDV).  And when I do that I'd like somewhere to put it.  I was going to get an engine stand, but then I found out you're not supposed to roll those around with an engine on them, and in my limited garage space most everything has to move around.  An engine cradle (or dolly) looks like a better idea for me.  I've only found one that says it'll fit a Caddy 500; this from Summit Racing:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-G1068-1/

Has anyone had any experience with Summit?  With engine cradles in general?  Is there another brand of cradle for a 500 out there?

Thanks,

-Mike Beda

[Dr. John T. Welch]

I have used the cradle products from Summit, but I would not own them.  The construction is minimal to the task at best,  and the wheels/casters are sub par.  The best value for an engine cradle is provided by Stumpy,  stumpysfabworks@hotmail.com.  You can Google his business site by searching Stumpys.  He makes and stocks  custom cradles for most engine families, uses very high quality materials, his welds are superb, and there are several caster choices.  There is no comparision between his cradles and the import variety.  His prices are slightly higher than the discount houses, he is very plesant to deal with,  prompt in filling orders, and he will provide exactly what you desire.  You get what you pay for.       

[TJ Hopland]

I just did an international 390? motor that had to weigh in the ball park of a 500.  We bought the biggest modern 'imported' stand we could fine and it seemed to do fine.   I think it was rated at 2000 pounds which should be at least 2x what the motor weighs.    Im with you on not trusting the typical 750-1000 pound ones you typically see.   

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

What you need is a GOOD engine stand.   Mine will carry anything, and anywhere, and hold the engine in many positions of rotation.

Bruce.

PS.   Sorry about the engine on it, but I don't get to do too many Cadillac engines.

[Bob Steur]

Just my .02 -- 472-500s are supposedly between small block and big block chevys in weight. I have my 472 on what TJ called an "import" stand from Nothern tool, not the cheapest but not the fanciest either, and it's fine although I do need the help of my cherry picker to turn it right side up again after working on it upside down.

[76eldo]

I rebuilt a straight 8 Packard engine many years ago.  A lot of weight and a long block too.

i got a heavy duty engine stand and took off the 3rd caster and installed heavy angle iron and two casters, making it a 4 wheeled balanced stand.  If was sturdy and could be wheeled around the shop.

Brian