Engine Stand

[AeroE]

Just starting my 2nd M38 engine rebuild; this time I want to use a rotating stand. Before I buy the stand I want to make sure the concept is correct. I’ve searched this forum for “engine stand”, and there are a number of references to using a stand, but nothing definite.

Is it OK to support the 134 flathead cantilevered off it’s rear block flange on a stand?

[C15TA]

A jeep engine is no problem on an engine stand. We regularly put big block V8's on our stand at work. There are lots of inexpensive stands available but just beware of the cheaper ones having crappy wheels. If you don't need to move it around just put the frame up on 4X4's to keep the weight off the wheels and that adjusts the height somewhat so you are not working bent over too much. Working with the engine on a stand is definitely much easier.
Post photos of the rebuild.
Cheers,
Barry

[ECVJeeps]

One thing to note, be careful a jeep engine is top heavy and will be a bit awkward when rotating it on an engine stand.

[wesk]

Engine stands with four wheels are much better and safer then the cheapy 3 wheel stands.

[AeroE]

Right.

I understand about stand capacity/safety. But I was looking for whether or not the M38 engine block could withstand being hung off its rear flange without breaking the casting, since it normally has two upfront mounts.

I’ll take the replies as, it won’t be a problem.

Thanks.

[BullRun]

I use #8 Bolts just to play it safe and throw out the bolts that came with the stand. No problems supporting a jeep block.

All the major components being removed beforehand of course!

[AeroE]

My block is an early one without the reinforced rear flanges but had an arsenal rebuild in 1957 (brass tag on left side). It has a late type bell housing and rear plate/starter/generator. The evidence is that this was upgraded during the rebuild. Until I saw this, I didn’t know you could retrofit the later stuff on the early block. I started this thread because I thought the earlier block may be structurally weaker.

I appreciate the responses.

[wesk]

Unless your block has a pre-existing crack in the rear flange you can mount the block to the engine stand in the normal manner even when the engine is completely rebuilt, assembled and all accessories installed. Definately should always use grade 8 bolts for this task.

Yes the late bell can go on the early engine and the early bell can go on the late engine. However you must use the bell's matching adapter plate, starter and flywheel ring gear. Also when installing the early bell on the late block if you want to continue use of the flywheel timing marks you must grind some meat from the block's right flange adjacent to the timing window.