An engine stand enables vehicle repair technicians to rotate and check all the sides of diesel engines during maintenance. The equipment holds these parts of automobiles at varying heights to prevent them from falling and causing injuries. Understanding the different types of stands and how they are categorized can help you choose the ideal one for your work. Here are tips for choosing the right stand for your needs:
Research the Stands
The mechanical equipment you purchase will depend on the total weight it can hold or its structure. Choose a lightweight stand if you maintain compact cars, smaller semi-trucks, or light diesel engines. A heavy-duty option can help handle larger trucks, buses, or trailer engines. Look at the varying height options, as semi-tractors that are higher off the ground will need a taller engine stand. Understanding what types of vehicles you regularly work with will help you make an informed decision.
Check the Load Ratings
Load ratings represent the total engine weight a particular stand can hold and support. Before purchasing this tool, determine your vehicle’s engine weight first. Clarity about the weight of a vehicle’s engine allows you to choose an engine stand with a higher capacity for better support. Stability promoted by stands with high load ratings can let mechanics move the engines around without the risk of falling. A mechanical tool whose load capacity exceeds your engine’s weight will last for a long period of time as it isn’t susceptible to quick cracks and wear from the weight.
Check the Locks
Locking helps keep this auto repair tool stationary when inspecting or repairing a diesel engine. Stands with secure locking don’t unexpectedly change positions by toppling or shifting during engine maintenance. The lock mechanism protects this equipment from potential damage by preventing uncontrolled movement and engine falls.
This feature also allows auto repair technicians to mount the engines and adjust their heights for better access. Equipment with the correct locks enables a mechanic to rotate the unit at specific angles for better repair accuracy. Confirm that the bolts and safety pins that lock the stand aren’t loose, cracked, or bent. Test the performance of this mechanical equipment by moving it and engaging the locking mechanisms. Different types of engine stand locks may include ratchet, friction, pin, and lever locks.
Inspect the Casters
Your stand should have functional casters to help you maneuver around the auto repair workplace. Tools with these features allow vehicle repair specialists to turn heavy engines without causing accidents. An auto tool with a caster prevents injuries by eliminating the need for mechanics to carry these vehicle parts themselves. When choosing equipment for holding engines during maintenance, check if its casters have aluminum or zinc construction. Casters made of these metals will last without wearing out or rusting. Buy a stand with a caster that has shock-absorbing suspensions to withstand vibrations that result when loaded with heavy diesel engines.
Examine the Durability
Stands for holding vehicle engines should be made of rigid metals that resist wear, tear, and cracks. Choose a mechanical tool built with aluminum, cast iron, or steel, as it can serve you for an extended period. Check the equipment’s label to determine its construction and expected lifespan. If your auto repair shop is in a humid region, buy an engine stand made of low-carbon steel to resist moisture and corrosion.
Inspect the Design
The layout or design of the equipment’s base can determine its stability and reliability when holding a vehicle’s engine. Mechanical equipment with a well-built and extensive base can hold a unit with high load capacity without falling over. Inspect the tool’s extension arms to check if they are adjustable or fixed. Since vehicle repair technicians work on different units with varying sizes, they should choose mechanical tools with pivoting arms. Inspect the tool’s mounting head for rotatability to allow precise and more thorough unit checkups and repairs.
Purchase an Engine Stand Today
An engine stand allows auto mechanics to mount engines in flexible and safe positions for fast and accurate maintenance. Quality and secure mechanical equipment should have a broad base, locking, rotating heads, and extra safety features. Contact a reputable auto equipment supplier to find quality heavy-duty tools today.
