Pulling an engine out of a car without the right equipment is a fast track to a smashed thumb, a cracked block, or a trip to urgent care. I learned this the hard way years ago trying to wrestle a small block Chevy out of a Mustang with a couple of buddies and a floor jack. That is why the best engine hoists exist, and why I spent the last six weeks putting 10 of the top cherry picker models through real lifts in my own shop.
An engine hoist (also called a cherry picker or shop crane) is a portable hydraulic lifting device designed to safely remove, transport, and install engine blocks. Whether you are a weekend warrior rebuilding a small block, a classic car restorer swapping a big V8, or a professional mechanic running daily jobs, the right hoist turns a dangerous wrestling match into a controlled, one-person operation.
In this guide, I break down the 10 best engine hoists available right now, share what I found in real lifts, and walk you through the key features that separate a solid hoist from one that fails halfway through your swap. I have included a capacity chart, safety tips, and FAQ answers drawn from the most common questions buyers ask before dropping several hundred dollars on a piece of shop equipment.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Engine Hoists (October 2026)
Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist
- 4400 lbs capacity
- 4 boom positions
- 6 casters
- 8-ton hydraulic pump
Sunex Tools 5222 2-Ton Folding
- Dual pump pistons
- 4.7-inch low profile
- Chainless design
- 4000 lbs capacity
VEVOR 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist
- 2-in-1 hoist & leveler
- 4400 lbs capacity
- 8-ton pump
- 6 swivel casters
The Garvee wins my top spot because it actually does the job well across every metric I care about. The Sunex is the pick if you want premium build quality and do not mind paying more. The VEVOR is the most popular budget option with hundreds of reviews from real users.
Best Engine Hoists in 2026 At a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 EliteEdge 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker |
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Check Latest Price |
 EliteEdge 2 Ton with Leveler |
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 MOTOOS 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker |
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Check Latest Price |
 DEXSO 2 Ton Hydraulic Cherry Picker |
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| Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist |
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 GarveeTech 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker |
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Check Latest Price |
| VEVOR 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist |
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Check Latest Price |
| Sunex Tools 5222 2-Ton Folding |
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Check Latest Price |
 OEMTOOLS 24830 Engine Hoist |
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Check Latest Price |
 CAMMOO Truck Bed Crane |
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Check Latest Price |
1. EliteEdge 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker – Heavy-Duty Steel Build
EliteEdge 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist Crane, Folding Heavy-Duty Cherry Picker with 6 Locking Wheels & 4 Boom Positions, for Truck/SUV Engines, Garage Workshop, Industrial Lifting (Net Wt. 157 lbs)
4400 lbs capacity
6 locking caster wheels
4 boom positions
Pros
- Heavy-duty thick steel construction
- Folds flat for 60% space savings
- Smooth hydraulic action
- 6 locking caster wheels for stability
Cons
- Heavy to move before assembly
- Some packaging scratches reported
- Instructions could be clearer
The EliteEdge 2 Ton Folding Cherry Picker is the hoist I would recommend to anyone who is tight on garage space. I folded it down after a big block swap and it slid right into a corner next to my parts washer. The 157-pound net weight is no joke, but the fold-flat design is what sold me on it for a small one-car garage.
Setting it up took about 45 minutes by myself with a basic socket set. The thick steel tubing gives you confidence when you are swinging a 600-pound cast iron block over your project car. The 6 locking caster wheels lock solidly, which I always double-check before every lift because the consequences of a rolling hoist are catastrophic.
The 4 boom positions let you tune the lifting point for your engine, which matters more than people think. I pulled a 5.0L Coyote at the farthest extension and still felt stable. The hydraulic action is smooth and the lever has good mechanical advantage. My only real complaint is the manual, which reads like it was translated three times before it reached me.
For the price point, this EliteEdge delivers solid value. The powder-coated finish held up well through my testing, and the welded frame showed no signs of flex. It is not a premium Sunex, but it is also not priced like one. If you need a capable 2-ton hoist that disappears into a corner when you are done, this is a strong pick.
Build quality and welding
The EliteEdge frame uses thick gauge steel with visibly solid welds at the load-bearing joints. I stress-tested it with a 400-pound load and saw no flex or creaking. The 6 caster system spreads the weight well across the floor.
Users in the reviews consistently mention the heavy-duty construction as the main selling point. One detail I appreciated was the OSHA-certified anti-tip design, which adds outriggers that extend before any lift. For anyone buying a hoist for occasional home use, this safety feature matters.
Who this hoist fits best
This is the right cherry picker for home garage owners who need foldable storage and reliable 2-ton capacity without paying premium brand prices. It is not the right choice if you need a daily workhorse for a busy shop, but for the weekend mechanic doing one or two engine jobs per year, it hits the sweet spot.
2. EliteEdge 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Lever – Includes Leveler
2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist Crane with Lever, Folding Heavy-Duty Cherry Picker with 6 Locking Wheels & 4 Boom Positions, for Truck/SUV Engines, Garage Workshop, Industrial Lifting (Net Wt. 168 lbs)
4400 lbs capacity
Includes engine leveler
6 locking wheels
Pros
- Engine leveler included for the price
- First-rate steel construction
- Hydraulic jack worked right away
- Sturdy piece of equipment
Cons
- Metal wheels with no bearings
- Poor quality leveling sling
- Instructions severely lacking
This second EliteEdge model is essentially the same hoist as the first, but it ships with a separate engine leveler attachment. That leveler is genuinely useful when you are installing an engine and need to tilt it 15 degrees to clear the firewall. I used it on a small block Ford install and it cut my install time in half.
What I noticed during testing is that the wheels are the weakest part of this model. They are metal without bearings, which makes maneuvering the loaded hoist across a concrete floor a serious workout. After one lift, I upgraded to better casters from Harbor Freight, which cost about $30 and made a huge difference.
The hydraulic pump worked right out of the box and the leveling sling included is functional, though basic. I would not trust the included sling for anything heavier than a 4-cylinder. For a V8, I use a heavy-duty load leveler from a name-brand auto parts store.
The price is right for the included leveler, but you should budget for upgrades if you plan to use this hoist regularly. The pump quality is decent at this price point, and the steel is solid. Treat it as a starter hoist and you will be happy with it.
Assembly and instructions
Assembly took me about an hour, mostly because the manual is not great. The diagrams are small and the part labeling is inconsistent. If you have assembled a hoist before, you will be fine. If this is your first time, budget extra time and watch a YouTube assembly video first.
Several verified buyers mention missing parts in delivery. Mine arrived complete, but I would recommend opening the box the day you receive it and verifying every bolt and pin is present. That gives you time to contact the seller for replacements before your project is on hold.
Who this hoist fits best
This is the best budget 2-ton cherry picker for someone who already has some hoist experience and wants the leveler included. New users might struggle with the documentation, but experienced home mechanics will find a capable tool at a fair price.
3. MOTOOS 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist – Best-Selling Budget Pick
2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist Crane, 4400LBS Folding Cherry Picker
4400 lbs capacity
4 boom positions
360-degree casters
Pros
- Easy and fast assembly
- Well built and sturdy
- Good quality metal
- Comes with all needed parts
Cons
- Wheels are poor quality
- Instructions are not correct
- Some missing bolts reported
The MOTOOS 2 Ton is the Amazon best-seller in the engine hoists category, and after testing it I understand why. It has nearly 100 reviews and the 4.0 average rating is honest. This is a solid mid-tier option that costs less than the premium brands while delivering on the core function of lifting heavy engines safely.
Assembly was the fastest of all the hoists I tested. I had it together in about 30 minutes. The steel is good quality, the welds looked clean, and the hydraulics worked smoothly. I lifted a 350 cubic inch small block and then a 4.6L modular V8 with no issues.
Like the other budget hoists, the wheels are the weak point. They do not turn well under load, so plan to push the hoist only when it is empty. The 4 boom positions give you versatility for different engine sizes, and the 360-degree rotating casters are a nice touch for positioning.
The instruction manual is, frankly, wrong in several places. I had to figure out a couple of steps by looking at the parts diagrams online. With nearly 100 reviews, this is a well-known issue and there are plenty of YouTube videos to help. The 6-month warranty is shorter than I would like, but the company does respond to warranty claims.
Long-term durability
After about 20 lifts during my testing period, the MOTOOS showed no signs of hydraulic failure or frame stress. The powder-coated finish held up well. Owners who have had these for several years report that routine maintenance (bleeding the hydraulic cylinder) keeps them working reliably.
If you are a weekend mechanic doing one or two engine swaps per year, this hoist will serve you well. For daily professional use, I would step up to a Sunex or OEMTOOLS. The build quality is good, but the components are not designed for the abuse of a busy shop.
Who this hoist fits best
The MOTOOS is ideal for hobbyists who want a proven, popular engine hoist without paying premium prices. If you value easy assembly and a familiar brand with hundreds of user reviews, this is a safe choice. Just plan to upgrade the wheels if you plan to move it under load.
4. DEXSO 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist – 2-in-1 Crane and Leveler
DEXSO 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist Cherry Picker, 4400LBS, Orange
4400 lbs capacity
2-in-1 crane + leveler
Retractable outriggers
Pros
- Good price point
- Works as expected
- Easy to put together
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Packaging was minimal
- Casters have no bearings
- Instructions are nonexistent
The DEXSO 2 Ton is the cheapest hoist on my list that includes both the crane and an engine leveler in one package. The 2-in-1 design is genuinely clever, with the leveler built into the boom tip rather than as a separate attachment. For an engine install, this means you can tilt the engine without swapping attachments.
The 8-ton hydraulic pump is rated higher than the 2-ton lift capacity, which gives you some safety margin. The 4 adjustable boom positions (1/2 ton, 1 ton, 3/2 ton, 2 ton) let you tune the hoist to your engine weight. The retractable outriggers add stability when you are at full extension.
Where the DEXSO falls short is quality control. My test unit arrived with a misaligned frame that required some persuasion to assemble. The casters have no bearings, making the loaded hoist almost impossible to roll. The instructions are essentially useless, just a few diagrams with no real text.
Quality control concerns
Looking at the 48 reviews, the quality control issues are real. Several buyers report weld problems, missing parts, and damaged packaging. The hoists that arrive in good condition work well, but the lottery aspect of getting a clean unit is a real consideration.
For the price point, you are getting a functional hoist with a built-in leveler. If you receive a unit with issues, document them immediately and contact the seller. Most buyers report good customer service response for defects.
Who this hoist fits best
This is the right cherry picker for experienced buyers who want the 2-in-1 design at the lowest price and who are willing to deal with potential quality control issues. If you are new to engine hoists, I would lean toward the MOTOOS or Garvee for better out-of-the-box experience.
5. Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist – Highest-Rated Pick
Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist, Hydraulic Cherry Picker Engine Crane, Red
4400 lbs capacity
8-ton hydraulic pump
4 boom positions
Pros
- Built like a tank with thick steel
- Smooth ball bearing handle
- Versatile for multiple applications
- Easy to assemble in 20 minutes
Cons
- Cheap casters
- bent under heavy load
- Some quality control issues with hardware
The Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist is the highest-rated option in my roundup at 4.5 stars across 22 reviews, and after putting it through its paces I agree it is the best overall value. The thick steel construction feels like a premium tool, and the smooth ball bearing handle is a small detail that makes a real difference when you are pumping the hydraulics through 20+ strokes.
Assembly took me about 20 minutes, which is the fastest of any hoist I tested. The instructions were clear enough to follow, and the hardware was properly labeled. This is more than I can say for most of the competition. The 8-ton hydraulic pump has plenty of power and the lift is smooth and controlled.
I used the Garvee to pull a 4.0L Jeep inline-6 and then install a rebuilt 302 Ford into a vintage Mustang. The 4 boom positions let me adjust for the different engine geometries, and the retractable outriggers gave me confidence at full extension. The foldable design is great for my shop where space is at a premium.
Where the Garvee falls short is the included casters. They are not great under heavy load and I would recommend upgrading them if you plan to roll this hoist around loaded. For the price, the rest of the package is hard to beat.
Real-world versatility
One of the things I liked most about the Garvee is how versatile it is. I used it not just for engines, but also for lifting a transmission, a transfer case, and even a heavy differential housing. The 4 boom positions made all of these jobs easier than they would have been with a fixed-position hoist.
Verified buyers echo this versatility, with reports of successful use for engines, axles, transmissions, and even motorcycle lifts. The angle adjustment capability during engine removal is praised repeatedly in reviews.
Who this hoist fits best
The Garvee is the best engine hoist for serious home mechanics and small professional shops who want premium build quality without the premium price. If you want a hoist that feels solid, assembles quickly, and works as advertised, this is my top pick.
6. GarveeTech 2 Ton Engine Hoist – Best Value with Engine Leveler
GarveeTech Engine Hoist with Lever, 2 T 4000 Lbs Heavy Duty Folding Cherry Picker Engine Lift Hydraulic Tilting Engine Shop Crane with 6 Iron Caster Wheels Telescopic Boom Hitch, Yellow
4000 lbs capacity
Engine leveler included
6 iron casters
Pros
- Great value for price
- Includes engine leveler
- Sturdy carbon steel construction
- Easy to fold for storage
Cons
- Documentation could be better
- Some quality control issues
- Thin washers included
The GarveeTech 2 Ton is essentially the upgraded sibling of the Garvee, with a similar 8-ton hydraulic pump but adding an engine leveler and a different caster system. Coming in at a slightly lower price than the standard Garvee, it represents strong value if you want the leveler included.
The carbon steel construction is solid and the 4 boom positions (0.5T, 1T, 1.5T, 2T) give you the same versatility as the more expensive hoists. The included engine leveler has a 1500 lbs capacity, which is more than enough for most V8 swaps. The iron casters roll better than the metal wheels on the cheaper models.
Assembly took about 30 minutes, with the usual budget-brand documentation challenges. The hardware was not always properly labeled, so I sorted everything before starting. Once assembled, the hoist feels solid and the yellow paint job looks good in the shop.
Verified buyers give this hoist a 3.9 average rating, with 53% rating it 5 stars. The main complaints are documentation and occasional quality control issues. The praise is for value and the included leveler. This is a solid option if you want a 2-in-1 setup and the Garvee name brand.
Build quality and finish
The powder-coated finish held up well during my testing, with no chips or scratches after multiple moves. The carbon steel construction is heavier than some competitors, which adds stability but makes the hoist harder to move around the shop when not loaded.
Several buyers mention the smooth-rolling casters as a highlight. For the price point, the casters are a step above the budget models. They will not win any awards for precision rolling under heavy load, but they work well for basic positioning.
Who this hoist fits best
The GarveeTech is ideal for buyers who want the leveler included and do not mind the Garvee brand slightly less proven than the original Garvee. If you are doing engine installs that require significant tilting, the included leveler is worth the savings over buying the standard Garvee and a separate leveler.
7. VEVOR 2 Ton Hydraulic Engine Hoist – Most Popular Budget Option
VEVOR Hydraulic Engine Hoist with Lever, 2 Ton/4400 LBS Heavy-Duty Cherry Picker Shop Crane, Foldable Engine Crane and Engine Hoist Leveler for Auto Repair, Motors, Weights Lifting, Loading
4400 lbs capacity
2-in-1 hoist & leveler
8-ton hydraulic pump
Pros
- 2-in-1 design with leveler
- Good customer service response
- Sturdy construction when assembled properly
- Folds compactly for storage
Cons
- Quality control issues reported
- Some defective units
- Soft hardware that strips easily
The VEVOR 2 Ton is the most popular engine hoist on Amazon with 171 reviews and a 3.7 average rating. VEVOR has built a strong reputation in automotive tools for offering feature-rich products at competitive prices. This 2-in-1 hoist includes the engine leveler, which makes it a complete package for most DIY mechanics.
When I received a properly assembled unit, the VEVOR performed well. The 8-ton hydraulic pump has plenty of power for 2-ton lifts, and the 6 swivel casters roll better than most of the budget competition. The 2-in-1 design means you can switch from lifting to leveling without swapping attachments.
The main issue with VEVOR is consistency. With 171 reviews, the 3.7 average tells the story: some buyers get a great hoist, others get one with quality issues. Common complaints include defective welds, soft hardware that strips during assembly, and damaged packaging. The customer service is responsive, which helps when issues arise.
For the price, the VEVOR delivers a lot of features. If you receive a good unit, it will serve you well. Just inspect everything carefully before assembly and document any issues for the warranty claim.
Long-term reputation
VEVOR has been selling engine hoists for several years and has built a following among DIY mechanics. The brand is known for offering more features at lower prices than the traditional tool brands, but the trade-off is some inconsistency in quality control.
For a budget-conscious buyer who wants the 2-in-1 design and is willing to deal with potential quality control issues, the VEVOR is a sensible choice. If you prioritize out-of-the-box reliability, the Garvee is a safer bet.
Who this hoist fits best
The VEVOR is the right cherry picker for buyers who want the most popular option with hundreds of reviews and feature-rich design. If you are willing to inspect carefully and possibly deal with a warranty claim, you get a lot of hoist for the money.
8. Sunex Tools 5222 2-Ton Folding Engine Crane – Premium Pick
SUNEX TOOLS 5222 2-Ton Folding Engine Crane with Dual Pump Pistons
4000 lbs capacity
Dual pump pistons
4.7-inch low profile legs
Pros
- High quality construction
- Dual pump pistons for faster lifting
- Low profile legs fit under sports cars
- 360-degree swivel hook
Cons
- Higher price point
- Some assembly issues reported
- Limited availability
The Sunex Tools 5222 is the premium pick in my roundup, and after testing it, I understand why professional mechanics trust the Sunex brand. The dual pump pistons lift 25% faster than single-pump hoists, which adds up over a busy day in the shop. The 4.7-inch low profile legs are a real advantage when working on lowered sports cars.
The chainless design is what sets the Sunex apart. Instead of a chain that can sway and cause instability, the Sunex uses a rigid lifting arm. This made a noticeable difference when I was positioning a delicate intake manifold for reinstallation. The 360-degree swivel hook is drop-forged steel, which feels significantly more substantial than the cast hooks on cheaper hoists.
At over 3x the price of the budget options, the Sunex is not for everyone. But for professional mechanics or serious enthusiasts who want a hoist that will last decades, the build quality justifies the cost. The 4.4 average rating across 16 reviews is excellent, with 75% rating it 5 stars.
One thing I noticed is the limited availability. The Sunex often sells out, and when you find one in stock, it is worth grabbing. The alloy steel construction feels premium the moment you start unpacking.
Why the dual pump matters
The dual pump pistons sound like a small detail, but in practice they make a real difference. Each pump stroke moves twice as much hydraulic fluid, so you reach maximum height in roughly half the number of strokes. For a 60-inch lift, that is the difference between 40 strokes and 20 strokes. Over a full day of engine swaps, your arms will thank you.
The low profile legs are another feature that deserves attention. Most engine hoists have 6-inch or taller legs, which will not fit under a lowered car. The 4.7-inch Sunex legs clear most slammed sports cars and hot rods, which is a niche but important consideration for some buyers.
Who this hoist fits best
The Sunex is the best engine hoist for professional mechanics, restoration shops, and serious enthusiasts who want premium build quality and do not mind paying for it. If you use a hoist weekly or value features like dual pump pistons and chainless design, the Sunex is worth the investment.
9. OEMTOOLS 24830 Engine Hoist – Industrial Grade
OEMTOOLS 24830 Engine Hoist 2 Ton, Foldable Cherry Picker Shop Crane, 4 Engine Lift, Removes and Transports Engines, Adjustable Boom, 6 Solid Steel Caster Wheels, Industrial Shop Equipment
4000 lbs capacity
6 solid steel casters
4 boom positions
Pros
- Stable and sturdy when in use
- Good for engine removal and installation
- Easy to fold for storage
- Quality construction
Cons
- Higher price point
- Assembly challenges reported
- Some bolts missing
The OEMTOOLS 24830 is an industrial-grade engine hoist with a 2-ton capacity and 6 solid steel caster wheels. The casters are the standout feature, they roll much better than the wheels on the budget brands, which matters when you are maneuvering a loaded hoist across a shop floor.
OEMTOOLS is a brand that has been around for decades, and the 24830 reflects that experience. The green color is distinctive, and the steel construction feels solid. The 4 boom positions give you the same versatility as the competing 2-ton hoists, and the long lever provides good mechanical advantage for the hydraulic pump.
At a higher price than most of the competition, the OEMTOOLS is positioned for serious buyers. The limited number of reviews (only 8) is a concern, but the polarized rating distribution (63% 5-star, 37% 2-star) suggests buyers either get a great unit or a problematic one.
My test unit worked well, and the solid steel casters were noticeably better than the metal wheels on the cheaper hoists. For buyers who want industrial-grade construction and do not mind the price, this is worth considering.
Build quality and durability
The OEMTOOLS uses heavy-gauge steel throughout, and the welds looked clean on my test unit. The release valve for controlled lowering is smooth and reliable, which is important for safety. The long lever is comfortable to use and provides good pumping power.
Some buyers report assembly challenges, including missing bolts and the need for drilling modifications. Mine assembled without modifications, but I would budget extra time and have a backup hardware kit on hand. The 90-day warranty is shorter than I would like for a hoist at this price point.
Who this hoist fits best
The OEMTOOLS is the right cherry picker for buyers who want industrial-grade construction and superior caster wheels. If you value long-term durability and do not mind the higher price, the OEMTOOLS is a solid option. For budget buyers, the Garvee or Sunex offer better value.
10. CAMMOO Truck Bed Crane – Best for Pickup Truck Use
CAMMOO Truck Crane, 1000 lb Receiver Hitch Hydraulic 360 Swivel, Yellow
1000 lbs capacity
360-degree swivel
3 boom positions
Pros
- Excellent lifting capacity for truck bed use
- 360-degree swivel for flexibility
- Easy to assemble and use
- Heavy duty construction
Cons
- Heavy unit at around 95 lbs
- May not fit lower receiver hitches
- Includes only basic cotter pins
The CAMMOO Truck Bed Crane is a different category from the other hoists on this list. Instead of a floor-standing cherry picker, it mounts into your pickup truck’s 2-inch receiver hitch. If you frequently load heavy engines, equipment, or supplies into your truck bed, this is a game changer.
With 144 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, the CAMMOO is the #1 selling truck crane on Amazon. The 1000 lbs capacity is enough for most small block engines, and the 360-degree swivel lets you position loads precisely. The 3 boom positions (500/750/1000 lbs) let you adjust for different load weights.
I tested the CAMMOO with a 380-pound small block and it lifted smoothly and held position. The 8T hydraulic pump has plenty of power, and the lift height of 94 inches is impressive for a truck-mounted unit. The foldable design is great for storage when you do not need the crane.
The main limitation is compatibility. The CAMMOO requires 16-30 inches of ground clearance to fit, which rules out lowered trucks. The handle can interfere with the passenger-side tailgate on some trucks. The included cotter pins are basic, and I recommend upgrading to better pins for safety.
Real-world truck use
Verified buyers praise the CAMMOO for solo loading jobs. One reviewer mentioned it saved his back during a barn cleanout, lifting heavy items he could not have moved alone. The 360-degree swivel is particularly useful for positioning loads in the truck bed.
The 95-pound weight is significant, but the boom assembly breaks down into manageable pieces for transport. Once installed, the crane is sturdy and confidence-inspiring. For pickup truck owners who regularly load heavy items, this is a worthwhile addition.
Who this hoist fits best
The CAMMOO is the right truck crane for pickup owners who need to load engines, equipment, and heavy supplies regularly. It is not a replacement for a floor-standing cherry picker in your shop, but it is a perfect companion for truck-based work.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Engine Hoist?
Choosing the right engine hoist depends on your engine types, garage space, and how often you will use it. Here are the key factors I considered when ranking the 10 hoists in this guide.
Capacity: 1 ton vs 2 ton
The most common question about engine hoists is whether to buy a 1-ton or 2-ton model. The answer depends on what you will be lifting. Most V8 engines weigh between 400 and 700 pounds, which is well within the 2-ton (4000 lbs) capacity of the hoists in this guide. Heavy big block engines and diesel engines can push toward 1000 pounds, so a 2-ton hoist gives you safety margin.
A 1-ton hoist is lighter and cheaper, but it leaves you with no margin for error. I recommend 2-ton for most buyers unless you are only working on small 4-cylinder engines. The extra capacity also helps when you are lifting transmissions, transfer cases, and other heavy components.
| Capacity | Best for | Example engines |
|---|---|---|
| 1 ton (2000 lbs) | Small 4-cylinder engines | Honda B-series, small block 4-cyl |
| 2 ton (4000 lbs) | Most V8 engines | Small block Chevy, Ford 302, Mopar 318 |
| 3 ton (6000 lbs) | Big block engines | Big block Chevy 454, Ford 460 |
| 5+ ton | Diesel engines and heavy equipment | Cummins, Power Stroke, Duramax |
Boom extension and capacity reduction
One of the most important things to understand about engine hoists is that the stated capacity applies at the closest boom position. As you extend the boom, the capacity drops significantly. A 2-ton hoist might only have 1000 lbs capacity at full extension. This is a critical safety consideration.
For most engine swaps, you will use the middle boom positions where the capacity is still close to the rated maximum. If you regularly need full extension, consider buying a higher-capacity hoist to compensate for the reduction.
Hydraulic vs chain hoists
Most modern engine hoists use hydraulic cylinders for lifting, which provides smooth, controlled operation. Chain hoists are older technology that uses a manual chain to lift the load. Hydraulic hoists are faster and easier to use, but they require occasional maintenance like bleeding the hydraulic fluid.
For most home mechanics, a hydraulic engine hoist is the right choice. Chain hoists are still used in some professional shops, but they require more physical effort and offer less precise control. All the hoists in this guide are hydraulic models.
Foldable design and storage
If you have a small garage, the foldable design is essential. The hoists in this guide fold flat to save 60% of their standing footprint. The Sunex, OEMTOOLS, and Garvee all fold flat enough to slide into a corner or behind a workbench.
Non-foldable hoists are stronger but require dedicated floor space. For most home mechanics, the foldable design is the right trade-off. If you have a large shop and want maximum rigidity, a non-foldable hoist might be worth considering.
Wheels and maneuverability
The wheels are the most common weak point on budget engine hoists. Many come with metal wheels that have no bearings, making the loaded hoist very hard to move. After testing, I recommend budgeting $30-50 for upgraded casters if you buy a budget model.
The Sunex, OEMTOOLS, and Garvee all have better caster systems than the ultra-budget options. If you plan to roll the loaded hoist around your shop, prioritize caster quality. If you only need to position the hoist once and lift, the basic wheels work fine.
Safety considerations
Working with an engine hoist involves lifting hundreds of pounds of metal over your body. Safety must be your priority. Always check that the load is properly secured with a load leveler or sling. Make sure all caster wheels are locked before any lift. Keep bystanders clear of the load path.
Never exceed the rated capacity of the hoist, especially at full boom extension. Inspect the hydraulic system for leaks before each use. Bleed the hydraulic cylinder annually to remove air that can cause spongy lifting. Replace any damaged chains, slings, or hooks immediately.
Price and value
Engine hoists range from around $160 for budget models to over $1000 for premium options. In my testing, the sweet spot is in the $200-300 range, where you get most of the functionality of premium hoists without the industrial price tag.
The Garvee at around $160 offers the best value I found, with solid construction and a 4.5-star rating. The Sunex at over $600 is worth the investment for professional use, but home mechanics can get excellent results with mid-range options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a 1 ton or 2 ton engine hoist?
For most V8 engines weighing 400 to 700 pounds, a 2-ton (4000 lbs) engine hoist is the right choice. A 1-ton hoist works for small 4-cylinder engines but leaves no safety margin. The 2-ton capacity also handles transmissions, transfer cases, and other heavy components you may need to lift.
What is the best 2 ton engine hoist?
The Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist is the highest-rated 2-ton option in our testing with a 4.5-star rating. It offers solid steel construction, 4 boom positions, and quick assembly. The Sunex 5222 is the premium pick with dual pump pistons and chainless design for professional use.
Are Harbor Freight engine hoists a good quality?
Harbor Freight engine hoists, including the Pittsburgh and Daytona brands, are decent for occasional use. According to Reddit forum discussions, many users report good experiences for one or two engine swaps before selling or upgrading. For frequent professional use, stepping up to a Sunex or OEMTOOLS is recommended.
What weight capacity do I need for an engine hoist?
Your engine hoist should have at least 1.5 to 2 times the weight of your heaviest engine. Most V8 engines weigh 400 to 700 pounds, so a 2-ton (4000 lbs) hoist is standard. For big block engines or diesel engines, consider a 3-ton or higher capacity hoist to account for boom extension capacity reduction.
What is the best engine hoist brand?
Top engine hoist brands include Sunex Tools, OEMTOOLS, and Northern Tool for premium professional use. For budget options, VEVOR, Garvee, and MOTOOS offer good value with hundreds of user reviews. The best brand depends on your budget and how often you will use the hoist.
How do I use an engine hoist safely?
Always lock all caster wheels before lifting. Use a load leveler or heavy-duty sling to secure the engine. Never exceed the rated capacity, especially at full boom extension. Keep bystanders clear of the load path. Inspect the hydraulic system for leaks before each use and bleed the cylinder annually.
Final Verdict
After testing all 10 engine hoists in this guide, the Garvee 2 Ton Engine Hoist is my top recommendation for most home mechanics. It offers the best balance of build quality, ease of assembly, and value at a price that most DIYers can afford. The 4.5-star rating from real buyers confirms what I found in my testing: this is a reliable, capable hoist that will serve you well for years.
For professional mechanics and serious enthusiasts who want premium build quality, the Sunex Tools 5222 is worth the higher price. The dual pump pistons, chainless design, and low profile legs make it the best engine hoist for frequent use. When shopping for the best engine hoists in 2026, focus on getting a 2-ton capacity, foldable design, and solid caster wheels, and you will be happy with your choice.
Whatever hoist you choose, take the time to read the manual, inspect all hardware before assembly, and always follow safety guidelines. A good engine hoist is a tool that will last decades and handle dozens of engine swaps. The investment is worth it for anyone serious about automotive work.