Pulling the motor, what structure?

[newbster]

I'll be building a new boat garage next month and am considering building in some strength to add an engine hoist in case I need to pull the motor. The basic structure will run 12 high by 12 wide by 32 long with a 1/12 slant to the roof. I was going to use exterior rated 2x4s as we see very little snow in the Seattle area. Has anyone played with hooking up a hoist to a barn or whatever to pull a motor? I was thinking about using 3 2x6's sistered together on the vertical and horizontal with the hoist in the middle for the weight bearing part. I'm guessing the 4.3L is about 600 lbs. Is the above about right to get the job done?

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Pulling the motor, what structure?

Hey Newbster,

May want to post this in a different forum, betcha get answers. Try the ....
Nevermind, I see you posted there as well..

 

[chiefalen]

Re: Pulling the motor, what structure?

Yea that more than enough i pulled mine with a 2x10x10. 3 2x6 is more than enough.

 

[J. Mark]

Re: Pulling the motor, what structure?

Plenty of strength, but you might find yourself a little short on height.

I needed 8 feet of lift to pull my engine and cleared by 2-3 inches.

Measure your boat from ground to highest point. Add to that figure the height of the engine from the low point to the top of a chain attached for pulling to get a base figure for how much clearance you will need.

Then add some extra as the boat will rise with the weight coming off as the trailer springs unload.

Add the distance the hoist will hang and you should have a good idea of whether you have enough height.

Whatever you figure you need add 8 inches for a safety factor.

 

[chiefalen]

Re: Pulling the motor, what structure?

Or you can do what i did put a 2x10 between 2 trees and pull it that way.

I left 8 feet above the deck of the boat and the 2x10 you might want to leave 10 feet between the deck and the 2x10 and if you don't think 1 is enough use 2.

Mine was 12 foot span also. Didn't even sag the wood.