Quick question about engine support

[tompumped]

I'm just curious if I should be using hardened chain to support my engine. I remember we sold gold chain when I worked at napa. I have one of those engine levelers to use with a hoist and it came with regular 5/16 chain. I used it on my small block but now i'm just thinking because i'm giong to be underneath it if I can't get the carrier cover off without removing the pan.
Also would grade 10.9 bolts be alright? I'm not sure of the size, but they fit through the chain.
I know it's more of a pain in the ass with an engine hoist, but i'm farely small and I don't really mind. I also read it's a bit easier because you can move the engine if needed.
I'm going to have to drink beers this is going to be a *****, but air tools are a beautiful thing. I dont usually drink, but sometimes you got to.

 

[Off Road SHO]

Well you know, you should never trust your life to hydraulics; is there anyway you can get the engine supported by the hydraulics and then wedge a 2x4 in there somehow just in case of hydraulic failure?

The 5/16" chain and 10.9 bolts are sufficient if used against shear loads, not against thread pull-out. Do you have any jack stands?

Tom

 

[tompumped]

Thanks for the response. I went ahead and bought some grade 8 bolts and strong chain anyway.
I know you should never trust your life to hydraulics. I've never made that mistake. If there isn't a way for me to safely support the engine I wont change the carrier gasket if I absolutely have to drop the pan. I read some people were able to get it out without doing so. It's not leaking right now anyway.
I was thinking about a 4x4 under the lift arm, but it's not centered, the rear of the hoist will just lift.
I thought it would work until I had to hook up the hoist then I said oh shit.
I might end up putting a 4x4 on the rad support for added protection.
It is an 8 ton ram, but I still don't trust it.
I got the trans out and the tob almost ate all the way through the pp with only 112k.
I can't wait to have a welded diff.