The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Lifting a 235 with 4x6 beam

I've got a 4X6 beam 8' long over my garage doorway. Do you think that would handle lifting a 235? I know they are pretty heavy.

Dennis

No. Lots of factors but 700 lbs exceeds the shear limit of that dimension at that span (if memory serves me right).

I assume it's wood or you would not be asking. Also assume the 6" side is vertical. Big chance to take. No one knows the age, where the knots are, internal rot/termites, type of wood, and as said, there are load limits for wood on the net..... If I were you I would get a cherry picker and a stand. Money well spent. New cherry picker or cylinder and a used stand. I use the picker for all kinds of stuff to save my back.

Take it outside and use an "engineered" tree branch in the yard.

Bought this at HF for $120 on sale a few years back, I think they are still in that range. Proof is here you can see it will do it. I would not chance the beam at this kind of money. Think about if it fails, garage, engine, leg all hang in the balance.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/8129078353/in/set-72157631867396207

Hey Brad, is that a 1 or 2 ton you have. The 1 ton is on sale for $180 and the 2 ton on sale for $230. I like your $120 much better

Dennis

I just ordered a 2-ton that looks like Brad's picture. $239 free delivery. I'll let you know how it goes. Wifey says better investment than dr. bill and garage construction.

Dennis

Brad, forget about all the talk of the hoist. Is that engine on the hoist in your pic, in original paint? (Note to mod. I used the word hoist twice to stay on topic )

Mine is the 2-ton model, I collected one of their 30% off e-mail only coupons. The engine was completely original to this serial number on the title (and the 2' crack under the manifolds in the block). I purchased it from the original owner family.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/9035376513/in/set-72157631867396207
I didn't think there was any paint left on it? The new engine is a 54' the PO painted. Good call on getting something instead of the beam we don't want anyone to get hurt working on a bolt!

My new cherry picker worked like a champ! Looks well made. Time will tell. Thanks all for your suggestions.

Dennis

Not very practical, but if you can put some strong verticals (pipe, tube, cinder blocks) under the 8' span 2' from each side (open span is now 4') the lifting strength is 8 × as much.