This may or may not set off some alarms but I've been lifting engines of all sizes with a 20' nylon tow strap for years. Everything from little 3 cylinder diesels to 460 Lincolns.
I just wrap the strap around the block so it doesn't bind on anything breakable and hook both the eye loops into my engine hoist. A short rope below and between the loops keeps the strap from slipping and I even use the leveling block with the same setup to do the engine bay installation. By doing it this way I can have the engine completely buttoned up, nothing to scratch, bend or break. Not trying to get anyone to change their lifting methods....just sharing what has worked for me.
Dave
