is it OK to use only 3 Bolts on my engine stand?

[805eclipse]

I pulled my engine today and im going to mount it on an engine stand using the tranny holes but i have a previous problem and only have 3 tranny holes i can bolt it to. is that ok to support the engine with only 3 bolts?

 

[92AWDHX40]

i used 3 it didnt move.

 

[Calan]

Why can't you use a bolt and nut in the lower hole?

 

[805eclipse]

my front lower tranny hole by the motor mount is gone, when i bought the car the tranny only had 2 bolts in it(i didnt know) and one day when i got on the gas the tranny tried moving and the front part of the block where the hole is broke off. i solved this by getting a long bolt and nut and drilling a hole through the front motor mount to secure the tranny

 

[Calan]

I think I'd look into getting a new bell housing for the tranny.

...the front part of the block where the hole is broke off...

Wait... the block broke and not the ear on the tranny? WTF

 

[snowborder714]

I think Lofty had the same issue and had to weld an ear to the block. I might be mistaking though.

 

[805eclipse]

yes the block actually broke where it threads into, but im definitely getting a new bellhousing anyway ### its cracked

 

[black_gst]

You will be ok with three, make sure you use grade 8 bolts (10.9)

 

[red_talon]

you would be ok. just make sure its safetly secure.

 

[JusMX141]

I've hung the block itself on as little as two bolts before on a spare engine stand which was never intended for 4-cylinder engines....but I recommend at least three for best support; of course four bolts being the best option.

 

[92AWDHX40]

Well get a new housing and use all four.

 

[Ryan4dc]

I am using 3 bolts holding my parts block up right now. The fourth ear is on the dowel for the trans. So far it hasn't fell off. Been on there for like 5 months so far.

 

[Lofty]

Yes, I've had the same issue with that block, as long as it broke clean off, you can save it.

You need to take it to a shop and have them weld it with Nickel rod, because welding cast wont work normally.

You have to heat up the cast, and then weld it while it's glowing hot.

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Fun times.

(right part is my front trans mounting ear that held the dowel)

Have the shop retap it to the same thread pitch for the front bolt while they're at it.

It's not THAT big of a deal, however easier to buy a new block. But I'm a "It's not junk till I say so" kinda guy.

 

[805eclipse]

Here is a pic of my block where it broke.. do you think it can be welded like you did? how much did that cost you? or what is a general estimate for price? Thanks

 

[Lofty]

As long as you have the other part, if you take it to a place with a GOOD welder, and tell them to use the proper rod to weld it, and have them re-tap it to the same size, then yes. You should be A-Okay!