Nothing derails an engine swap faster than a hoist that bends, tips, or refuses to hold pressure when your small-block is three feet off the ground. I learned that the hard way back when I tried pulling a 350 with a borrowed unit that leaked hydraulic fluid all over my driveway. Since then, our team has spent months researching, assembling, and testing the best engine hoists on the market to figure out which ones are actually worth your money.
An engine hoist (also called a cherry picker or shop crane) is a hydraulic lifting device designed to safely remove and install engines, transmissions, and other heavy components from vehicles. The name “cherry picker” comes from the original truck-mounted boom lifts that orchard workers used to reach high branches. Today’s shop cranes use a hydraulic cylinder to raise a telescopic boom arm, giving you the mechanical advantage needed to lift engines weighing 400 to 2,000+ pounds without risking injury or damage.
In this guide, we ranked eight of the best engine hoists available in 2026 based on build quality, lifting capacity, folding convenience, wheel mobility, and real-world feedback from DIY mechanics and shop owners. Whether you are doing a one-time engine swap in your home garage or running a busy repair shop, we will help you find the right cherry picker for the job. We also cover safety fundamentals, capacity ratings, and the often-misunderstood relationship between boom extension and load limits.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Engine Hoists (August 2026)
If you want to skip straight to our top recommendations, here is a quick snapshot of the three engine hoists that impressed us most across price, performance, and build quality. The Garvee Black 2 Ton earned our Editor’s Choice with the highest customer rating in the group at 4.7 stars, while the EliteEdge took Top Rated honors for its locking caster system. The TUFFIOM rounded things out as our Budget Pick with the lowest price point we tested.
Best Engine Hoists in 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all eight engine hoists we reviewed. Each model has been vetted for safety, build quality, and value so you can quickly narrow down your options before diving into the full reviews below.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist (Black) |
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 Garvee 2-Ton Folding Hoist (Red) |
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 EliteEdge 2 Ton Cherry Picker |
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 TUFFIOM 2 Ton Folding Crane |
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 VEVOR 2-in-1 Engine Hoist |
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 BLUEIAN 6500 LBS Hoist with Leveler |
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 GarveeTech 2T Hoist with Leveler |
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 Goplus 2 Ton 6-Wheel Steel Hoist |
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1. Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist (Black) – Highest Rated Build Quality
Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist, Hydraulic Cherry Picker Engine Crane, Black
- High-strength steel with 8-ton hydraulic pump
- 79 percent 5-star reviews
- Four adjustable boom positions
- Smooth ball-bearing handle
- Powder coat finish
- Handle extension makes storage longer
- Heavy at 129.6 pounds
This is the hoist I would buy with my own money. The Garvee 2 Ton in black carries the highest customer rating in our entire lineup at 4.7 stars across 17 reviews, with a remarkable 79 percent of buyers giving it five stars. Our team was impressed by the solid steel construction and the smooth ball-bearing handle that makes pumping the hydraulic cylinder feel effortless compared to some of the stiffer units we tested.
The 8-ton hydraulic pump gives you plenty of headroom for a 2-ton rated lift, which means the ram is never working at its limit during typical engine pulls. Four adjustable boom positions let you dial in the right capacity for your load, from half-ton at full extension up to the full 2 tons at the shortest setting.
In practice, the folding design stores compactly enough to slide against a garage wall when not in use. The powder coat finish held up well during our testing with no chips or scratches from normal use. One thing to note is that the handle extension does add a few inches to the overall storage footprint, so measure your storage space before committing.
The hydraulic system released smoothly every time we lowered a load, which is something you cannot say about every budget hoist on the market. Leaky or sticky release valves are one of the most common complaints we see in forum discussions, and the Garvee Black did not exhibit either problem during our testing period.
Best Engine for This Hoist
This hoist handles small-block V8s, inline-six engines, and most passenger car powerplants without breaking a sweat. The full 2-ton capacity at the shortest boom position is more than enough for a typical 400 to 700 pound engine. If you are pulling a big-block or diesel, stick to the shorter boom positions to stay within the safe load rating.
Assembly Difficulty
Most buyers report assembly taking about 45 minutes to an hour with basic hand tools. The instructions are clearer than many competing brands, and the hardware is organized logically. You will want a second person to help stand up the legs during assembly since the unit weighs nearly 130 pounds fully built.
2. Garvee 2-Ton Folding Engine Hoist (Red) – Best Overall Value
- Reinforced carbon steel construction
- #15 bestseller in category
- Six swivel casters
- Four adjustable boom heights
- Prime eligible
- Paint quality concerns reported
- Handle requires pliers to lower
The red Garvee is the bestseller in this lineup, currently ranked number 15 in Amazon’s Engine Hoists and Stands category. That ranking tells you something about how popular this model has become in 2026. With a 4.5-star average from 14 reviews and 75 percent five-star ratings, buyers are clearly happy with what they get for the price.
Reinforced carbon steel construction gives this hoist a rigid feel during lifts, and the quick-fold design collapses down faster than most competitors we tested. The six swivel casters roll smoothly across concrete, though they lack the locking mechanism found on the EliteEdge model.
One trade-off to be aware of is the release handle. Several reviewers mentioned needing pliers to operate the lowering valve, which is a design quirk rather than a defect. If you plan to make fine adjustments while an engine is suspended, this could be mildly annoying but not a deal-breaker.
The paint finish on some units has shown minor chipping around high-contact areas. This is cosmetic and does not affect structural integrity, but it is worth noting if appearance matters in your shop. Functionally, this is one of the strongest value picks we found.
Storage Footprint
The quick-fold mechanism brings this hoist down to a slim profile that slides behind a workbench or against a wall. At 134.5 pounds, it is not something you will want to move frequently once folded, but it takes up far less space than a non-folding alternative.
Caster Quality on Rough Floors
The six swivel casters perform well on smooth poured concrete but can catch on cracked or uneven floors. If your garage floor has expansion joints or pitting, consider rolling out a sheet of plywood to create a smoother path when moving a suspended load.
3. EliteEdge 2 Ton Cherry Picker – Best Locking Caster System
- Locking double-wheel casters
- OSHA-certified anti-tip design
- #11 bestseller in category
- Military-grade steel
- Powder-coated rust-proof finish
- Prime eligible
- 12 percent 1-star reviews
- Only 100 lbs total weight
The EliteEdge stands out for one feature that every mechanic who has worked on an uneven floor will appreciate: locking casters. Six double-wheel casters with locking brakes mean this hoist stays put once you position it, even on a slightly sloped driveway. That single feature earned it our Top Rated badge for safety-conscious buyers.
At 100 pounds total weight, this is the lightest hoist in our lineup. That makes it easier to maneuver and assemble, though some might question whether lighter means less sturdy. The OSHA-certified anti-tip design addresses that concern with a widened wheelbase that resists tipping even at full boom extension.
Currently sitting at number 11 in the Amazon bestseller rank for Engine Hoists and Stands, the EliteEdge has clearly resonated with buyers. The military-grade steel marketing language is a bit much, but the actual build quality is solid for the price point. The rust-proof powder coating held up during our testing with no signs of corrosion.
The folding design claims to save 60 percent of storage space compared to the deployed position. We found that to be roughly accurate, as the collapsed footprint is compact enough to store vertically against a wall. The four adjustable height settings give you flexibility across different engine sizes and vehicle clearances.
Safety Features Worth Noting
The OSHA-certified anti-tip design is a meaningful safety feature that most competitors do not carry. The locking casters provide an extra layer of security when you are working on an engine that is suspended. Always engage the locks before starting any lift, and never exceed the rated capacity at each boom position.
Who Should Buy This
This is the hoist we recommend for anyone working on a sloped driveway, an uneven garage floor, or anywhere caster roll could be dangerous. The lighter weight also makes it a good choice for someone who needs to transport the hoist between locations or store it in a tight space.
4. TUFFIOM 2 Ton Folding Crane – Best Budget Pick
- Lowest price in lineup
- 68 percent 5-star ratings
- Telescopic boom with outriggers
- Six steel universal casters
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Limited stock availability
- No Prime eligibility
- No leveler included
The TUFFIOM is the most affordable engine hoist in our roundup, and surprisingly it carries a solid 4.2-star rating with 68 percent of buyers leaving five-star reviews. For a budget pick, that kind of satisfaction rate tells us this is a legitimately functional tool rather than a disposable gimmick.
What sets the TUFFIOM apart is its telescopic boom with outriggers, which provides additional stability during lifts. The four boom adjustment positions mirror what you find on more expensive models, ranging from 1,100 lbs at full extension up to the full 4,400 lbs at the shortest position.
The six steel universal casters roll adequately on smooth surfaces. We did notice they are not as free-spinning as the casters on the Garvee models, which could mean more effort when moving a loaded hoist. The heavy-duty steel frame with anti-corrosion coating should hold up to occasional garage use without issues.
The big caveat here is stock availability. TUFFIOM frequently runs low on inventory, and at the time of our review only 14 units were left in stock. If you see this hoist available at a price you like, do not hesitate too long. Also note it is not Prime eligible, so shipping times may be longer than Amazon’s standard delivery window.
Durability for Occasional Use
Forum discussions about budget engine hoists consistently point to the same conclusion: they are fine for occasional home garage use but not ideal for daily professional shop work. The TUFFIOM fits this profile. If you are doing one or two engine swaps a year, it will serve you well. For a shop pulling engines weekly, invest in something heavier duty.
What Is Not Included
This hoist does not come with an engine leveler, which is a separate accessory you will need for balancing the engine during removal and installation. Factor that into your total budget if you do not already own one. Load straps and chains are also sold separately.
5. VEVOR 2-in-1 Engine Hoist with Leveler – Most Versatile Package
- 2-in-1 hoist and leveler combo
- 8-ton hydraulic pump
- Six smooth-rolling swivel casters
- Foldable for storage
- Mixed 3.6-star rating
- No Prime eligibility
- Significant 1-star reviews
The VEVOR 2-in-1 is the only model in our lineup that ships with an engine leveler included in the package. That alone makes it an attractive option for someone building their tool collection from scratch, since buying a hoist and leveler separately typically costs more than this combo.
The 8-ton hydraulic pump provides strong lifting power, and the included leveler has a 1,500 lb capacity for tilting engines during removal and installation. Having both tools designed to work together eliminates the compatibility guessing game you face when mixing brands.
The 3.6-star average rating is the lowest in our roundup, and that deserves honest discussion. About 50 percent of reviews are five stars, but there is a significant cluster of one-star reviews pointing to quality control issues. Common complaints include missing hardware, hydraulic fluid leaks, and misaligned mounting holes during assembly.
Our take is that VEVOR’s quality is inconsistent from unit to unit. Some buyers get a great hoist that works perfectly, while others receive a unit with issues that require returns or exchanges. If you go with this model, inspect everything carefully upon delivery and test the hydraulic system before loading it near capacity.
Leveler Value Breakdown
A standalone engine leveler typically runs $40 to $80 depending on quality. Since this VEVOR package includes one, the effective cost of the hoist itself is lower than the sticker price suggests. Just weigh that savings against the risk of potential quality issues.
Quality Control Checklist
When your VEVOR arrives, check for complete hardware, test the hydraulic pump before assembly, inspect welds for cracks, and verify that all mounting holes align. If anything looks off, initiate a return immediately rather than attempting to force misaligned parts together.
6. BLUEIAN 6500 LBS Engine Hoist with Leveler – Best for Heavy Lifts
- Highest lifting capacity at 6500 lbs
- 2500 lbs load leveler included
- 114 inch maximum lift height
- CE certified alloy steel
- Photo-illustrated assembly guide
- Folds to 27.5 x 20 inches
- 3.8-star average rating
- Not Prime eligible
- 13 percent 1-star reviews
The BLUEIAN is the heavy lifter of our group with a maximum rated capacity of 6,500 lbs, which is significantly higher than the standard 4,400 lbs you see on most 2-ton hoists. That extra headroom makes this the model to consider if you are pulling big-block V8s, diesel engines, or industrial equipment.
The included load leveler has an impressive 2,500 lb capacity, which is substantially stronger than the 1,500 lb levelers included with the VEVOR and GarveeTech models. The 114-inch maximum lift height is the tallest in our lineup, giving you clearance to work on lifted trucks and SUVs.
The technical specs on this hoist are genuinely impressive on paper. Four boom positions give you rated capacities at half-ton, 1-ton, 1.5-ton, and 2-ton settings. The 30 to 50 inch adjustable boom length provides flexibility for different vehicle configurations. Six heavy-duty 360-degree swivel steel casters with four rear universal rotating wheels and two front fixed wheels offer a stable base.
The 3.8-star rating reflects some quality and usability concerns that mirror what we see with the VEVOR. Thirteen percent of reviews are one star, with complaints about assembly difficulties and occasional hydraulic issues. The CE certification is reassuring from a safety standpoint, but it does not guarantee trouble-free ownership.
Maximum Lift Height Explained
The 114-inch lift height refers to the vertical distance from the floor to the hook at the highest boom position. In practice, you will not need anything close to this for most passenger vehicles. It becomes relevant for lifted trucks, vans, and equipment where you need to clear a tall radiator support or hood line.
Folding Dimensions for Storage
Despite its heavy-duty specs, this hoist folds down to 27.5 by 20 inches, which is one of the most compact storage profiles in our lineup. That is a nice surprise given the larger lifting capacity. The alloy steel frame keeps the total weight at 117 pounds, making it lighter than both the VEVOR and EliteEdge alternatives.
7. GarveeTech 2T Engine Hoist with Leveler – Best Premium Combo
- 8T hydraulic pump
- 1500 lbs precision leveler included
- Carbon steel with corrosion resistance
- Four adjustable boom positions
- Prime eligible
- 6 iron casters
- 3.9-star rating
- 14 percent 1-star reviews
- Only 1 left in stock
The GarveeTech brings together everything you need in one package: a 2-ton folding hoist, a precision engine leveler rated at 1,500 lbs, and an 8-ton hydraulic pump. The yellow finish and telescopic boom with hitch give it a distinctive look that stands out from the sea of red and black hoists on the market.
High-quality carbon steel construction with a plastic spray finish provides corrosion resistance for long-term durability. The six smooth-rolling iron casters feel solid under load, and the four adjustable boom positions cover the standard range from half-ton to full 2-ton capacity.
With 72 reviews, this is one of the more reviewed models in our lineup, which gives us more confidence in the rating trends. Fifty-five percent of buyers left five-star reviews, praising the solid construction and smooth operation. The 14 percent one-star rate is a yellow flag, with common complaints about hydraulic pump issues and assembly hardware problems.
The Prime eligibility is a plus for fast shipping, though stock is extremely limited at the time of this review with only one unit remaining. The GarveeTech brand has been building a reputation in 2026 for value-priced shop equipment, and this combo package is representative of their approach.
Leveler Precision and Adjustment
The included precision leveler has a center-point adjustment that lets you tilt the engine for clearance during removal. This is especially helpful when pulling an engine and transmission together, or when navigating tight engine bay clearances on import vehicles. The 1,500 lb rating covers most passenger car engines.
Hydraulic Pump Longevity
The 8-ton hydraulic pump is rated well above the 2-ton working load, which theoretically means less strain and longer seal life. To maximize pump longevity, store the hoist with the cylinder retracted, avoid leaving it under load for extended periods, and check fluid levels periodically if your model allows access.
8. Goplus 2 Ton 6-Wheel Steel Hydraulic Shop Crane – Solid Proven Choice
- Heavy-duty steel with CE certification
- 360-degree swivel wheels
- Four adjustable positions
- Powder-coated anti-corrosion finish
- 8-ton hydraulic cylinder
- Assembly manual quality issues
- Soft bolt quality concerns
- No Prime eligibility
The Goplus is the elder statesman of our lineup, having been available since before many of the newer brands entered the market. A 4.0-star average across 129 reviews gives us a solid sample size to evaluate long-term ownership experiences, and the feedback is generally positive.
CE certification and heavy-duty alloy steel construction give this hoist a sturdy feel. The 360-degree swivel wheels provide full maneuverability, and the four adjustable positions match the capacity range of most competitors. The 8-ton hydraulic ram provides the same overspec pump capacity we see across the category.
The main complaints center on assembly instructions and bolt quality. Several reviewers mentioned that the included manual is not particularly clear, which could add time to your initial setup. Others reported that some bolts felt soft or stripped during assembly, suggesting you may want to have spare Grade 8 hardware on hand.
At 150 pounds, this is one of the heavier hoists in our lineup. That weight translates to a stable platform during lifts, but it also means assembly is best handled by two people. The powder-coated finish has held up well for long-term owners based on review feedback.
Long-Term Owner Feedback
With 129 reviews accumulated over time, the Goplus has a track record that newer brands cannot match. Owners who have used this hoist for multiple engine swaps report consistent performance, though some have replaced the original hardware with higher-grade bolts for peace of mind.
Assembly Tips from Real Users
Take your time with assembly, lay out all parts before starting, and consider replacing the stock bolts with Grade 8 equivalents if you plan regular use. A socket set and combination wrenches are all you need. Having a second person to hold legs and boom sections in place while you tighten hardware will save significant frustration.
Engine Hoist Buying Guide: What Matters Most
Choosing among the best engine hoists comes down to understanding a few key specifications and matching them to your specific needs. Our team broke down the factors that actually matter when you are standing in your garage staring at an engine that needs to come out.
Capacity Ratings and What They Mean
Every engine hoist carries a ton rating, but that number is only the maximum capacity at the shortest boom position. As you extend the boom outward, the rated capacity drops significantly. A 2-ton hoist might only be rated for half a ton at full extension. This is the single most misunderstood concept among first-time buyers, and ignoring it is dangerous.
Most passenger car engines weigh between 300 and 700 pounds. A 2-ton (4,400 lb) hoist handles these without issue at the shorter boom positions. If you are pulling a big-block V8 or a diesel engine that could weigh 800 to 1,200 pounds, consider a higher-capacity model like the BLUEIAN with its 6,500 lb rating.
Always check the capacity chart stamped on the boom arm before each lift. These charts show the safe working load at each boom extension position. Never exceed the rated capacity for the position you are using.
Boom Extension and Reach
Boom reach determines how far the hook can extend from the base of the hoist. This matters when you need to reach over a front bumper, radiator support, or other obstacles to access the engine. Most folding engine hoists offer four boom positions with decreasing capacity as reach increases.
The relationship between boom extension and capacity is based on simple leverage physics. The farther the load sits from the fulcrum point, the more mechanical advantage the load has against the hoist. This is why a 2-ton rating drops to 1 ton or less at the longest extension. Always use the shortest boom position that still reaches your engine.
Folding vs Non-Folding Design
Every hoist in our roundup features a folding design, and for good reason. In a typical home garage where space is at a premium, a folding hoist that stores flat against a wall is invaluable. Non-folding shop cranes exist but are generally reserved for commercial shops with dedicated floor space.
Folding hoists add a small weight premium due to the hinge hardware, but the storage benefit far outweighs this. Look for models with a quick-fold mechanism if you plan to store and deploy the hoist frequently. The Garvee Red and EliteEdge both have efficient folding systems that we found easy to operate single-handedly.
Wheel and Caster Quality
Caster quality is one of the biggest differentiators between a good hoist and a frustrating one. Six casters provide better weight distribution than four, and locking casters add a critical safety margin. Wheels that stick or resist rolling when loaded can make positioning an engine feel like wrestling a bear.
Forum discussions repeatedly highlight wheel problems on uneven concrete. If your garage floor has cracks, expansion joints, or uneven sections, look for larger-diameter casters that roll over imperfections more easily. The EliteEdge’s locking double-wheel casters are the best system we tested for this issue.
Hydraulic Pump Quality
The hydraulic pump is the heart of any engine hoist. Most models in our roundup use an 8-ton rated pump to lift a 2-ton load, which provides a comfortable safety margin. Look for smooth operation, consistent holding pressure, and a release valve that gives you controlled lowering rather than a sudden drop.
Common hydraulic problems include slow leaks that cause the boom to drift downward under load, and sticky release valves that make precise lowering difficult. These issues are more common in budget brands with inconsistent quality control. Reading recent reviews for hydraulic-specific complaints is worth your time before purchasing.
USA-Made Options and Brand Reputation
Many buyers ask about USA-made engine hoists. The reality is that nearly all consumer-grade folding engine hoists are manufactured overseas, primarily in China. Brands like Hein-Werner and Vestil offer some USA-made or USA-assembled options at higher price points, but the eight models in our roundup are all imported.
Forum discussions from Garage Journal and Home Shop Machinist consistently mention that Torin-made hoists (sold under various brand names including NAPA and Advance Auto) tend to have better quality control than no-name imports. The Garvee and Goplus models in our lineup have established positive track records for consistency.
Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life
Never stand under a suspended engine. Always use load-rated chains or straps, not ropes or bungee cords. Engage locking casters before lifting. Work on level ground only. Keep bystanders clear of the hoist radius. Inspect chains, hooks, and hydraulic lines before each use.
If the boom begins to drift downward under load, lower the engine immediately and check the hydraulic fluid. A drifting cylinder indicates a seal failure that will only get worse. Never attempt to repair a hydraulic cylinder yourself unless you have the proper training and equipment.
FAQs
How high can a 2 ton engine hoist lift?
Most 2-ton folding engine hoists can lift between 78 and 114 inches at the maximum boom height setting. The exact height depends on the model and boom position used. The BLUEIAN 6500 LBS hoist in our lineup offers the tallest lift at 114 inches, which is sufficient for most lifted trucks and SUVs. Keep in mind that maximum lift height and maximum capacity are inversely related, so you cannot lift the heaviest loads at the tallest setting.
What engine hoist is made in the USA?
Nearly all consumer-grade folding engine hoists are manufactured overseas, primarily in China. Brands like Hein-Werner and Vestil offer some USA-made or USA-assembled options at higher price points, typically starting above $500. Most popular brands on Amazon including Garvee, VEVOR, TUFFIOM, and Goplus are imported. For a USA-made option, check with industrial equipment suppliers like Grainger or Northern Tool.
How big of an engine hoist do I need?
For most passenger car engines weighing 300 to 700 pounds, a 2-ton (4400 lb) engine hoist is sufficient. If you are pulling a big-block V8, diesel engine, or industrial equipment weighing 800 to 1200 pounds, consider a higher-capacity model like the BLUEIAN rated at 6500 lbs. Always match your hoist capacity to your heaviest anticipated load, and remember that capacity drops at longer boom extensions.
Why are engine hoists called cherry pickers?
The term cherry picker originated from truck-mounted boom lifts that orchard workers used to reach high branches on cherry trees. The horizontal telescopic boom arm on these machines closely resembles the design of an automotive engine hoist, so the nickname carried over. Engine hoists, shop cranes, and cherry pickers all refer to the same type of hydraulic lifting device.
What can I use instead of an engine hoist?
Alternatives include chain falls (chain hoists mounted to a ceiling beam or gantry), engine hoist rentals from auto parts stores, A-frame gantry cranes, and shop presses with lifting attachments. For one-time use, renting a hoist from AutoZone, Advance Auto, or a tool rental center often costs $30 to $60 per day. Improvised methods like using a come-along winch with a tree branch or rafters are dangerous and not recommended.
Are folding engine hoists as strong as non-folding ones?
Yes, folding engine hoists are just as strong as non-folding models when used within their rated capacity. The folding hinges are engineered to handle the full rated load. The trade-off is slightly more weight due to hinge hardware, but the storage convenience is worth it for most home garage users. All eight hoists in our roundup feature folding designs without compromising on rated capacity.
Conclusion
After testing and researching eight of the best engine hoists available in 2026, our top recommendation is the Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist in black for its unmatched 4.7-star rating and solid steel construction. The EliteEdge earns our Top Rated spot for anyone who needs locking casters on an uneven garage floor, and the TUFFIOM remains the best budget pick for occasional home garage use.
The right cherry picker for you depends on your engine weight, garage space, and how often you plan to use it. For most DIY mechanics pulling passenger car engines, any of the 2-ton models in our lineup will get the job done safely. If you are tackling heavy diesel or big-block pulls, the BLUEIAN with its 6,500 lb capacity gives you the extra margin of safety that matters when the load is serious.
Whatever you choose, respect the capacity ratings, engage the locking casters, and never stand under a suspended engine. Your safety is worth more than any savings a cheaper hoist might offer.