Let’s face it—yanking an engine is no easy job. If you’ve ever looked down at the block and thought, “How do I get this beast out safely?”—you’re not alone. That’s where engine plates come in. But here’s the thing—not everyone needs one. Some do. Some don’t.
So, who really shouldn't skip using an engine plate? Let’s break it down in plain gearhead talk. No fluff. No filler. Just what you need to know.
Home Mechanics Who Tinker Often
If you wrench on your own ride often, you're already halfway to needing an engine lift plate. Why? Because lifting a block with a chain alone is sketchy. Chain points shift. The load swings. You’ll end up using two hands to pray and one hand to lift. Not safe.
Engine lifting plates bolt right into the intake manifold. That gives you a firm grab. Dead center too. Makes pulling easier and smoother.
Plus, you’re not just lifting—you’re aiming. You need to clear the mounts, angles, and sometimes a tight firewall. With a plate, that’s way easier.
Shops Doing Rebuilds or Swaps
Now, if you’re in a shop doing engine swaps, you already know the drill. Rebuilds, upgrades, or full swaps call for precise moves. That’s why a lot of pros keep a plate nearby.
It saves time. It keeps the hoist arm from slipping off some sketchy chain setup. And it lets you do vertical lifts without smashing a firewall or denting a valve cover.
Let’s say you’re dropping in a fresh LS or pulling out a small block. A plate gives you a centered pull. No tilt. No guesswork. And yes—less mess.
Folks Working Solo
Got no extra hands? Then you need tools that do the heavy lifting (literally). An engine plate takes guesswork out of the process. One person can lift, hold, and guide that engine with better control.
If you’ve ever balanced a block while walking it out of a bay solo, you already know how sketchy it can get. A plate gives you that grip and stability. Safer for you. Safer for the engine.
If you’re using a hoist by yourself, don’t mess around. Use the right gear.
Restoration Hobbyists
Got a classic ride in the garage? Maybe you’re restoring a 60s V8 or bringing back a rusty Camaro. You’ll want an engine lifting plate.
Restorations mean patience. You don’t want to rush the pull and crack the intake. Or worse, slip a chain and slam the firewall. An engine plate gives you peace of mind while you work around the motor.
It’s perfect for those long-term builds. The ones where the block might be out for weeks or months. Plates make it easier to lift the engine on and off stands too.
Those Dealing With Tight Engine Bays
Ever tried to pull a block from a small import or a cramped 4x4? It’s tight. No wiggle room. You don’t want a side-hanging chain throwing your alignment off.
That’s where the Engine Extraction Plate shines. It gives you a straight-up pull. Minimal swing. And more space to work.
Plates make it easier to angle the engine just right—without hitting the firewall, radiator support, or AC lines.
If the bay’s tight, skip the chain. Use the plate.
Builders Who Care About Threads
Chains mess up threads. They pull at weird angles. They scratch things. If you’re the kind of builder who hates busted bolt holes, a lift plate is a must.
It bolts into place and keeps threads clean. No dings. No scars. Perfect for aluminum intakes or painted parts too.
Folks Who Hate Re-Doing Things
Ever dropped an engine, heard a crack, and knew you’d messed up? Yeah, nobody wants a repeat. If you hate doing things twice, play it smart.
An Engine Lifting Plate gives you a secure lift every time. Fewer slips. Fewer damaged parts. Less stress.
Once you use one, you’ll wonder why you didn’t grab it sooner.
Why It’s Worth It—Even for Just One Job
Even if you only plan to lift a block once, the plate is still worth it. Why? Because it makes that one job safer and faster. Less trial and error. Less cursing.
It’s one of those things you don’t think you need—until you do.
And once you’ve used one, it’s staying in your toolbox.
What About Cost?
Most engine lifting plates cost less than a good torque wrench. But they can save you hundreds in damage and hours of time. Think of it as insurance.
They’re easy to store, fit most engines, and some even double as carb covers.
The Engine Lifting Plate might seem simple, but it does a big job. Don’t overlook it.
So, Who Can Skip It?
Honestly? If you’ve got a junk engine, a buddy helping, and don’t care about clean lifts—maybe you’ll get away without one.
But if you value your time, your safety, and your engine? Don’t skip the plate.
Final Word from Us at EngineLiftPlates
At EngineLiftPlates, we keep it simple. We build gear that works hard so you don’t have to. Our plates are tough, tested, and built for real jobs.
We don’t overthink it. We just make sure you get a clean lift every time. If you’re pulling an engine soon—don’t do it the hard way.
We’ve got what you need to make the job safer and smoother.
Wrench smart. Lift safe. Trust us to help get it done right.