This crane was quite satisfactory and showed no sign of impending collapse. I did set it to only the second extension setting. It may have not been adequate on the longer setting to work on this car without the front core support removed. One needs to subtract 500 pounds from the optimistic markings on the crane.
My big complaint with the cheap crane is that the legs would not fit under the frame of the car. We had to raise the car up for this project. And I will have to remember that process in reverse unless I modify the crane design. I won't admit to undoing the engine bolts with the center crossmember sitting on a Sears jack, though there were many blocks underneath too. Here's another photos.
When we went to move the engine onto the engine stand, the crane legs got in the way. No, this crane is not a great item. You get what you pay for, or less. I would like to have bought a nicer crane, but this is all I could find without paying shipping for stuff sight unseen. This one was adequate. They are so cheap, I cut up two more of them to make my rotisserie.
The engine tilter is a no brainer. That is the point I am trying to make. Buy one of these tilteres before tackling this project unless you have lots of help and have done this before. If you've never pulled an engine with a carb plate and lots of help (like I haven't) , this is not a good place to learn. With the tilter, small ajustments and thinking replaced lots of help and great effort. My wife nudged the engine around while I followed her instructions to pump the ram.
You see in the photo a perfect example of the wrong direction to face the handle. It's easier to reach when faced that way, but later it is obstructed by the crane's arm.
There is lots of weight here. Keep it in control at all times. No Budweiser until it's all out. What a hard rule to follow!