Pulling Gibson Boat Engines: Step-By-Step Guide

Pulling out a boat engine can be a tricky task. While it is possible to do it yourself using a pulley system, a crane, or a car engine hoist, it is recommended to get professional help from a marina or a service shop to ensure safety. They often have the necessary equipment, such as a forklift or a travel lift, to safely lift and remove the engine. Before removing the engine, it is important to disconnect it from all cables and mounts to make the process easier. Additionally, preparing the boat by lowering it as much as possible can provide the necessary clearance for the engine removal.

Using a crane propping stand or a tow truck with a hydraulic boom

Using a Crane Propping Stand:

• Crane propping stands are not recommended by some due to safety concerns. However, if you proceed with this method, ensure you have the necessary equipment and take proper safety precautions.
• Set up the crane propping stand on stable ground near your boat. Ensure the ground can bear the weight of the engine and crane.
• Secure the crane propping stand to the ground or a sturdy structure to prevent accidental movement.
• Attach a chain, sling, or sturdy straps to the engine. Ensure these attachments are rated for the weight of your engine.
• Use the crane to lift the engine slowly and with control. Have a spotter assist you in monitoring the engine's position and stability.
• Once the engine is lifted, carefully move the boat out from under it. Ensure the engine is secure and will not swing or shift during this process.
• Position a pickup truck or similar vehicle under the engine. Lower the engine onto the vehicle bed or a designated engine stand.
• Ensure the engine is securely attached to the vehicle or stand before transporting it to your work area.

Using a Tow Truck with a Hydraulic Boom:

• Contact a local towing company that has tow trucks equipped with hydraulic booms. Ensure they have experience with boat engine removal.
• Prepare your boat by unhooking all connections to the engine, except for the rear motor mount bolts, which you can leave in place for transportation to the towing company.
• Drive your boat onto the towing company's premises, or request that they send a truck to your location.
• The tow truck driver will utilize the hydraulic boom to lift the engine out of the boat. This process may involve attaching straps or chains to the engine and using the boom to hoist it.
• Once the engine is lifted, they will secure it to the towing truck or a separate vehicle for transportation.
• You can then transport the engine to your work area and begin your maintenance or repair procedures.

Remember to exercise caution and follow safety protocols when using crane propping stands or tow trucks with hydraulic booms. These methods require proper equipment, experience, and a well-planned procedure to ensure the safe removal of your Gibson boat's engine.

Using a block and tackle system with a high joist or beam

To pull out the engine of a Gibson boat, one of the recommended methods is to use a block and tackle system with a high joist or beam. This method is suggested as it is a safe and effective way to lift heavy loads.

A block and tackle system is a simple pulley system that utilises ropes and pulleys to allow the trading of force for distance. By increasing the mechanical advantage, this system makes lifting heavy loads easier. In this setup, the rope is passed through multiple pulleys, reducing the amount of force needed to lift the load. For example, a two-pulley system would require only 50 lbs of force to lift a 100-lb load.

To use this system to pull out a boat engine, first, locate a high joist or beam, preferably at someone's house or garage. Attach a block and tackle system to the joist or beam, ensuring that it is secure and can handle the weight of the engine. Once the system is in place, hook up the engine to the pulleys using appropriate rigging. Then, lift the engine out of the boat by cranking the pulleys. Once the engine is lifted, move the boat out from under it and back a pick-up truck underneath. Finally, lower the engine onto the truck bed and secure it for transport.

While this method is effective, it is important to prioritise safety and ensure that the rigging and setup are secure before attempting to lift the engine. Additionally, consider having an assistant to help with the process and ensure stability.

Using a forklift

Firstly, disconnect the engine from all cables and hoses. This includes electrical wiring, fuel lines, coolant hoses, and any other connections. Make sure to properly clamp or cap off any open lines to prevent leaks and spills.

Next, prepare the forklift by ensuring it has sufficient capacity to handle the weight of the engine. You may need to consult the forklift's specifications or seek advice from a professional to determine its capacity. Adjust the forklift's forks to the appropriate width and height to safely lift the engine.

Now, position the forklift in a stable and level area near the boat. Ensure that the surface can bear the weight of the forklift and engine without sinking or becoming unstable. Carefully drive the forklift into position, taking into account any obstacles or hazards in the area.

Before lifting, use appropriate rigging techniques to secure the engine to the forklift. This may involve using chains, slings, or straps to safely attach the engine to the forks. Ensure that the rigging is rated for the engine's weight and is properly secured to the forklift.

With the engine securely rigged, slowly and carefully lift the engine, maintaining control of the forklift at all times. Once the engine is clear of the boat, you may need to adjust the forklift's position to safely lower the engine to the ground or a waiting pallet or stand. Ensure that the engine is stable and secure in its new position before releasing the rigging.

Finally, if you are not confident or experienced in operating a forklift, consider seeking assistance from a professional or someone with the necessary skills. It is crucial to prioritize safety throughout the entire process to avoid damage to the boat, engine, or surrounding property, as well as to prevent injuries.

Using a backhoe

Firstly, prepare the boat by unhooking the engine from all cables and disconnecting it from hoses, electrical wiring, and motor mounts. This will make the process easier and reduce the risk of damage to these components.

Next, position the backhoe near the boat and use its arm to carefully lift the engine. Ensure that the backhoe is on stable ground and has sufficient clearance to manoeuvre.

Once the engine is securely attached to the backhoe's arm, slowly lift it out of the boat. It is important to do this slowly and carefully to avoid any accidental damage to the boat or engine.

After the engine is lifted clear of the boat, you can then lower it onto a suitable surface or engine stand. Ensure that the surface is level and can support the weight of the engine.

Finally, you can then transport the engine to your desired location, whether it is a garage or workshop, for further maintenance or repairs.

Using a tree with a sling and come along

Using a tree with a sling and come-along is a cost-effective method to pull out a boat engine. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, find a suitable tree with a strong branch that can bear the weight of the engine. Make sure the tree is located close to your boat and has a branch that is high enough to allow you to lift the engine and move the boat afterwards.

Next, you will need to prepare the necessary equipment. You will require a sling, which is a type of strap or chain that can be wrapped around the branch and secured with a come-along, sometimes called a hand winch. The sling should be rated to bear the weight of the engine and should not have any knots, as these can reduce its strength. Sharp edges should also be avoided, as they can damage the sling.

Once you have your equipment ready, wrap the sling securely around the branch, taking care to avoid any sharp edges. Use the come-along to tighten the sling around the branch, creating a secure loop. You may want to test the security of the sling by lifting a lighter object first, to ensure it can bear the weight.

Now, attach the engine to the sling. Depending on the type of sling you are using, you may be able to thread the sling through the engine mounts, or you might need to use additional chains or bolts to secure the engine. Ensure that the engine is securely attached to the sling and that all connections are tight.

With the engine attached, you can now use the come-along to lift the engine. As you lift, pay attention to the angle of the sling. A 90-degree angle provides the most strength, while lifting at a 30-degree angle reduces the strength of the sling by two-thirds. Avoid lifting at angles lower than 30 degrees.

Once the engine is lifted, move the boat out from under it. You may need assistance with this step, as the boat may be heavy. Lower the engine down slowly, ensuring that it remains secure in the sling.

Finally, you can detach the engine from the sling and begin your maintenance or repair work. Remember to exercise caution when working with heavy equipment, and always ensure that your setup is secure before proceeding.

Frequently asked questions