Best Chain Hoist for Engine Removal (2026): 5 Compared

Compare the picks

Specifications are manufacturer rated as listed, collected 22 October 2026.

How we scored them

Each pick is scored on performance, build, value, safety and warranty, with the weights published on our How We Pick page. For engine lifting gear, safety means stated load ratings, safety certifications and overload protection; the JET lists a Weston brake and overload-indicating hooks, and the Muxlor lists a CE rating. Two list a warranty term: the JET at lifetime and the YELLOW JACKET ASRF2750 at 1 year.

Scores run from 9.2 to 9.8: each product’s point total is placed on that range, so more points always means a higher score.

What the listings tell you

We read five listings for engine removal gear. Only one is a true chain hoist: the JET S90-100-20, a 1-ton hand chain hoist with a 20 ft lift. The other four are the rigging that connects a hoist to the engine: two YELLOW JACKET engine levelers at 1500 lb each, a Muxlor lift bracket rated at 5600 lb per bracket, and a lifgarfe lifting plate for Chevy and Ford small and big blocks. If you are pulling an engine, you need the hoist plus the rigging; this guide covers both. The warranties range from lifetime on the JET to 30 days on the lifgarfe, so read the full terms before you buy.

Buying guide: the best chain hoist for engine removal

Start with the hoist itself

The JET S90-100-20 is the only chain hoist here, and it is built for the job: 1-ton capacity, 20 ft of lift, Grade 80 chain and a Weston-style double pawl brake. The hooks rotate 360 degrees and stretch to show overloads. At 35.8 lb it is the heaviest pick, but a chain hoist lives on a beam or gantry, not in your hands. If you do not own a hoist yet, this is the one to buy first; the rest of the picks assume you have a way to lift.

Match the leveler to the load

Both YELLOW JACKET levelers are rated at 1500 lb with 14 in chains and 3-position mount holes. The ASRF2750A adds a ball bearing handle for easier adjustment under load; the ASRF2750 lists a 1-year warranty. A leveler lets you tilt the engine to clear the firewall and transmission tunnel, which a bare chain cannot do. For most V8 swaps, 1500 lb covers the engine and transmission together. See our chain hoist vs engine hoist guide if you are choosing between lifting methods.

Pick the right attachment point

The Muxlor bracket is rated at 5600 lb per bracket and carries a CE rating, while the lifgarfe plate is 3/16 in steel for Chevy small and big blocks and Ford. Brackets bolt to the engine; plates bolt to the carburetor flange. The Muxlor works with LS engines and crate motors on stands, while the lifgarfe is specific to SBC/BBC and Ford. Use the attachment that matches your engine, not the one with the biggest number.

Check the warranty before you buy

The JET lists a lifetime warranty, the YELLOW JACKET ASRF2750 lists 1 year, and the lifgarfe lists 30 days. The Muxlor and the ASRF2750A state no term. A lifetime warranty on a hoist matters because the chain and brake are wear items; a 30-day warranty on a steel plate is less critical since there is little to fail. Read the listing for the exact terms.

Do not skip the safety gear

Lifting an engine is the most dangerous job in the home garage, and the listings give you the safety story. The JET hoist has a Weston brake and hooks that stretch to show overloads; the Muxlor bracket carries a CE rating. The YELLOW JACKET levelers list no certification, so inspect the chains and brackets before each use. Never stand under a suspended engine, and never exceed the lowest rated component in your rigging chain.

Think about the whole rigging chain

Engine removal is a system: the hoist lifts, the leveler balances, and the bracket or plate connects to the engine. The listings here cover each link. The JET hoist needs a beam rated for the load; the levelers need the hoist; the brackets need the leveler or a sling. Buy the missing links, not just the shiny hoist. Our how to use an engine hoist safely guide covers setup and rigging.

Garage Fit Check

• Confirm your beam or gantry is rated for the hoist plus the engine; the JET alone weighs 35.8 lb before the load.
• Use the leveler to balance the load; the YELLOW JACKET listings show 3-position chain mounts for different engines.
• Bolt brackets to the engine per the listing; the Muxlor is rated at 5600 lb per bracket.
• Keep hands clear of the chain and load; the JET hooks indicate overloads by stretching.
• Store the hoist dry; the JET lists corrosion-resistant internal parts for harsh environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What capacity do I need to pull an engine?

The JET hoist is rated at 1 ton (2000 lb), and the levelers at 1500 lb. Most V8 engines with transmission fall under 1500 lb, so the levelers cover the common case. Always rig to the weakest link; a 5600 lb bracket does not make a 1500 lb leveler stronger.

Do I need a leveler or just the hoist?

A leveler lets you tilt the engine to clear the firewall. The YELLOW JACKET levelers offer 3-position chain mounts and an adjustable handle for balancing the load. Without one, the engine hangs level and may not clear the body.

What is the difference between the two YELLOW JACKET levelers?

The ASRF2750A has a ball bearing handle for easier adjustment; the ASRF2750 lists a 1-year warranty. Both are rated at 1500 lb with 14 in chains.

Will the lifgarfe plate fit my engine?

The listing states fitment for Chevy small block, big block and Ford. It bolts to the carburetor flange with no drilling.

How long is the JET hoist chain?

The listing states a 20 ft lift. The hoist weighs 35.8 lb and is intended for low headroom applications.

Is the Muxlor bracket certified?

The listing states a CE safety rating and 5600 lb per bracket. It is designed for LS engines, crate motors and engine stands. Check that your engine has the right mounting points before ordering, not after.

Also see our best chain hoist. Also see our best engine stand for engine rebuilds. Also see our chain hoist vs come along.