Engine stand adapter question
 

I found a beautiful engine stand with a model a engine adapter on craigslist awhile back and just now dug it out to work on a re-babbited short block that I recently purchased. This Model A engine adapter is the one sold at Brattons, Macs and possibly other suppliers and is mentioned in threads that I researched on this forum.

However, one thing I can't figure out is why this adapter only has one hole in it for mounting to the stand. So there is not a way to spin the engine upside down while working on it. The standard engine mounting bracket that came with the stand has a bunch of holes in it for mounting an engine at different angles and another larger hole in the end to put a pipe or lever to assist in turning the engine. But the Model A engine stand adapter doesn't have any of that. Just one hole.

Is there any reason I shouldn't drill a few more holes in the Model A engine stand adapter to modify it for swiveling?

Re: Engine stand adapter question
 

No reason at all. I drill all of mine.
Good Day!

Re: Engine stand adapter question
 

Ok, thanks for the reply Dave. Just wondering why they didn't engineer it that way in the first place as it seems like rotating is probably something a lot of people would want to do working on engines.

Re: Engine stand adapter question
 

Another way to go is to weld a good sized nut to the stand, and make a "T" handle with the bolt to lock the adapter where you want it..

Re: Engine stand adapter question
 

ya could go with the T handle and nut but I would rather have a pin going thru so that 65 pounds of iron at the end of the crankshaft has no way to swing down. Don't forget a hole to lock the engine vertical for doing flywheel housing setup etc

Re: Engine stand adapter question
 

That's kind of what I was thinking too. Yeah, I'm not sure I would go with the t handle and nut because I'd rather use a large pin just for peace of mind. I'm not looking forward to drilling those holes in heavy steel though.

Re: Engine stand adapter question
 

I mounted a gear reduction unit on my engine stand so it can easily be be turned to any angle wanted.