Pulling an engine is two jobs that need two different tools: getting it out, and holding it once it is out. The crane does the first, the stand the second, and the mistake most workshops make is sizing one and guessing the other.
Zhida cranes run from 0.5 ton to 2 ton. A four-cylinder is well inside 0.5 ton, but note that you are rarely lifting the engine alone - the head, manifold, gearbox or accessories can still be attached.
| Model | Capacity | Working range | N.W. |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZD10801 | 0.5 ton | - | 5 kg |
| ZD10802 | 0.75 ton | - | 5.5 kg |
| ZD1001Z-54 | 1 ton | 0-2100 mm | 54 kg |
| ZD1001Z-62 | 1 ton | 0-2300 mm | 64 kg |
| ZD102001 | 1 ton | 0-2000 mm | 34/15.5 kg |
| ZD1002Z-CE | 2 ton | 0-2300 mm | 90 kg |
| ZD1002Z-D | 2 ton | 0-2000 mm | 78 kg |
Practical reading: 0.5 ton (ZD10801) and 0.75 ton (ZD10802) auxiliary engine balancer for shop crane; 1 ton (ZD1001Z-54, ZD1001Z-62) is the everyday car choice, Both are designed for foldable storage. ZD1001Z-54 is the best choice for low chassis vehicles, while ZD1001Z-62 is suitable for ordinary and high chassis vehicles, such as SUV; 2 ton (ZD1002Z-CE, ZD1002Z-D) both are designed for foldable storage. ZD1002Z-D is the best choice for low chassis vehicles, while ZD1002Z-CE is suitable for ordinary and high chassis vehicles, such as SUVs.
The listed working range on the crane models is 0-2300 mm (ZD1001Z-62, ZD1002Z-CE) and 0-2100 mm (ZD1001Z-54, ZD1002Z-D). That span is what has to clear the radiator support and get the engine over the front panel - measure your tallest job before choosing.
Engine stands are rated in pounds here: 750, 1000, 1500 and 2000 lb. Match the rating to the dressed weight of the engine, then leave margin - a stand working at its limit is not where you want a block leaning over the bench.
| Model | Capacity | N.W. |
|---|---|---|
| ZD11075 | 750 lb | 16 kg |
| ZD11100 | 1000 lb | 19 kg |
| ZD11100W | 1000 lb | 33 kg |
| ZD11150A | 1500 lb | 29 kg |
| ZD11150Z | 1500 lb | 29 kg |
| ZD11200Z | 2000 lb | 37 kg |
| ZD11200W | 2000 lb | 48 kg |
The turbine-equipped models make it easier for users to adjust the engine angle, and the turbine comes with a self-locking function, allowing it to stay at any angle for convenient operation.
Most engine work involves turning the block to reach the sump, the bell housing and the top end. A stand you have to fight to rotate costs more time over a rebuild than the difference in price between models. Check the rotating head and locking mechanism before you buy, especially at the 1000 lb and above ratings where the load is awkward to manoeuvre.
Confirm the crane rating covers engine plus whatever is still bolted to it
Bolt the stand to the block at the specified points, using the correct grade of fastener
Keep the load low and centred when moving a loaded crane
Never get under an engine supported only by a crane
Lock the rotation before you lean on the block
Correct operation for using a engine crane and an engine stand: After hoisting the engine with the crane, first remove the fix head plate from the engine stand and bolt it securely to the engine. Then lift the engine stand frame and insert the round tube at the end of the fix head into the mounting hole of the engine stand. Finally, use the crane to lower the entire engine stand together with the engine steadily onto the ground. This is the safest method of operation.
For most passenger car engines a 1 ton crane is the everyday choice - the ZD1001Z-54, ZD1001Z-62. buy an'other, 0.5 ton (ZD10801) or 0.75 ton (ZD10802) for balance the engine. For commercial engines, or an engine lifted complete with gearbox, use the 2 ton ZD1002Z-CE or ZD1002Z-D.
Match the rating to the dressed weight of the engine and leave margin. The range runs 750 lb (ZD11075), 1000 lb (ZD11100, ZD11100W), 1500 lb (ZD11150A, ZD11150Z) up to 2000 lb (ZD11200Z, ZD11200W). A four-cylinder suits the lower ratings; a large diesel or a V engine belongs at 1500 lb or more.
No. Use a crane to lift and move, then transfer the engine to a stand for the rebuild. A crane holds the load on hydraulic pressure alone, and never work beneath an engine that is supported only by a crane.
The lifting height of a engine crane is generally sufficient in most cases, but the base frame height varies considerably among models. If the vehicle's ground clearance is 10 cm, the ZD1001Z-54 and ZD1002Z-D are more suitable, as their minimum height is 9.5 cm. If the vehicle has a higher ground clearance, the other two models are more suitable.