Best Engine Support Bar for Different Engines – Top 10 Picks
To find out the best engine support bar is one of the toughest jobs, especially for newbies. If you are a newbie as well, you know how terrifying it is to choose a perfect product in this field. Well, you should stop worrying about this matter as you have come to the right place.
We have a bunch of auto professionals who are always ready to help newbies like you. Considering your convenience, we have made a shortlist of the top engine support tools available in the market. Not only have we shortlisted the tools, but we have also reviewed the products in detail. Let’s go deep into the article to know more!
Why Do You Need an Engine Support Bar?
When it comes to the field of automobiles, we often face engine issues. And to fix those issues, we have to get in touch with auto mechanics. This is because it is a tough job to repair engines being alone at home.
Even if you are a professional, the job may not be easy for you. This is where the necessity of an engine support bar comes. Typically, an engine support bar helps you hoist the engine without making you undergo any trouble.
It is usually a tubular structure made of sturdy steel. The tool also has a pair of hooks in order to place the engine properly. However, if you are a DIY enthusiast, you have nothing to worry about. There are some engine transverse bars that don’t require more than one person.
How to Select an Engine Transverse Bar
Whether you are a newbie or a professional, you might be worrying about what you should consider at the time of choosing an engine support tool. Considering the fact, we have made the following buying guide. Just go through the information and you are all set!
Size of Engine
The first thing you need to consider while choosing an engine support tool is the size of your engine. Typically, engines and vehicles come in different sizes. So, you have to get a suitable engine support tool for your vehicle. Otherwise, you will end up in a great mess.
If you have a small car, then you can go with a tool having a 700 lbs capacity. But if you have to work with different engines, then the best decision for you is to get a tool having 1100 lbs capacity.
Comfortability of the Tool
We all want a comfortable working experience. While working on engines, it is really a sweating experience. And to make the job easy and enjoyable, we must have a tool that is pretty comfortable.
In this case, you should choose a tool that has rubber-coated grips. The tool having rubber-coated grips will never make you annoyed at the time of working. By the way, if you are not a professional, you can go with any type of engine transverse bar. This is because you don’t have to work every day.
Price of the Tool
Price is a significant factor at the time of choosing a product. There are some people who have a high budget, while some other people have to work on a tight budget. Considering the fact, different manufacturers come with different price ranges.
Well, we have included differently priced products to our list. You can choose any of them according to your requirements. Though the price is a great factor to get a high-quality product, our listed engine transverse tools are all great.
Comparison Table of the Top 8 Engine Support Bars
| Image | Product | Weight Capacity | Construction | Complete Package | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Goplus Engine Support Bar | 1100 Pounds | Steel | Yes | Checkv Price |
 |
OTC Tools Engine Support Bar | 700 Pounds | Steel | Not Specified | Check Price |
 |
OEM Tools 24950 Engine Support Bar | 1100 Pounds | Steel | Not Specified | Check Price |
 |
OEM Tools 24951 | 700 Pounds | Steel | No | Check Price |
 |
SPECSTAR Engine Support Bar | 1100 Pounds | Steel | Not Specified | |
 |
Radiator Support Skid Bar | Not Specified | Aluminum | Yes | |
 |
Astro 5820 Transverse Bar | 700 Pounds | Steel | Not Specified | |
 |
Omega 44700 Engine Support Tool | 700 Pounds | Steel | No |
Our Top 8 Picks of the Best Engine Support Bar
Our list of the best engine transverse bars is based on extensive research, so you will get no chance to question their quality. By the way, we want you to go through the detailed reviews of each of the transverse bars. This will help you come out with the most suitable product for you.
1. Goplus Engine Support Bar | Best Overall Engine Support Bar
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A+
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
Whether you are looking for the strongest engine support bar or the most affordable one, Goplus Engine Support Bar can be the ultimate choice for you. As a matter of fact, no other engine support bar is as efficient as this one.
Let’s talk about its versatility first. No matter whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, you find it comfortable to work on the engine from different angles in different positions. Considering the matter, the manufacturer of the support bar has designed it in a way that helps you work in different places of the engine with flexibility.
The build quality of the tool is also outstanding. The support bar, in fact, is made of robust steel. With the help of steel construction, it has established trust in durability.
Apart from its robust steel construction, there is something else to be considered. And that is the rubber-coated grips. These grips are so comfortable that you will experience neither pain nor pressure while working on the engine.
If you are considering the tool to work on heavy automobiles, you are great to go with it. That being said, the support bar is capable of supporting heavy engines. To make the job easier for you, the tool offers two different chains that are 28 inches in length.
The most interesting thing about the product is that it is a complete package. To be clear, the product includes a steel beam, steel chains, standing blocks, brackets, adjusting screws, hooks, and other hardware.
Key Features of the Product
- 1100lbs capacity
- Steel construction
- Plastic grips
- Powder-coated finish
- Complete package
Highlighted Benefits
- The support bar is capable of working with heavy engines of different vehicles.
- It offers versatility to make you feel comfortable while working in different places of the engine.
- It is a perfect support bar for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
- You will find it easy to assemble the tool even if you are a newbie.
- The price of the tool is highly affordable for anybody.
Potential Flaws
- It may require you a new set of chains if you work on heavy engines over and over again.
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2. OTC Tools Engine Support Bar | Best Support Bar for Cars
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A
- Versatility: A+
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
OTC Tools Engine Support Bar is another option you can go for while searching for a trustworthy engine tool. From design to performance, the tool is so great that nobody dares to question its quality. The only drawback of the product is that it is comparatively an expensive tool.
The weight capacity of the tool is ideal for any type of car out there. Typically, the tool can lift up to 700lbs weight. So it is obvious that heavy trucks are not suitable for this engine bar. Even if you have a heavy car, we suggest you avoid buying this product.
When you consider the construction of the tool, you will be glad to know that it has the most outstanding construction. That being said, the engine bar is made of high-quality steel and has a super PVC coating. As it has PVC coating, the surface of your vehicle is free from having scratches.
The tool comes with adjustable legs, which are smooth sliding. For this feature, you have nothing to worry about the width of your car. To make it clear, you can adjust the legs according to the width of your vehicle.
If you are a newbie, you may worry about the ease of use. For your kind information, the tool offers a quick connect feature. So, you will find it extremely easy while assembling and using the tool.
Since the support bar is highly versatile, you will find it useful to repair the transverse axle. Besides, replacing clutches will be an easy job for you when you have this amazing tool at your hand. Though these two types of jobs will be easier, you will find no obstacle to repair other parts of the engine with the tool.
Key Features of the Product
- 700lbs capacity
- Steel construction
- PVC coated legs
- Comfortable grips
- 3-point support bar
Highlighted Benefits
- The tool is capable of working on extremely sloped hoods.
- It has rubber-padded legs to ensure stability at the time of work.
- Coming with adjustable legs, the tool works well on different widths.
- You will find it easy when you are setting it up.
- You have nothing to question about its durability.
Potential Flaws
- The tool is an expensive product.
3. OEM Tools 24950 Engine Support Bar | Best Universal Engine Support Bar
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A+
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
Whether you have a 4 cylinder engine or a 6 cylinder engine, OEM Tools 24950 Engine Support Bar can be a perfect choice for you. To speak the truth, the tool works well with any type of engine out there.
However, the first thing that needs to be considered is the weight capacity of the tool. For your kind information, the tool can lift up to 1100lbs. So you can work on both cars and trucks with the help of the tool for sure.
The build quality of the tool is also excellent. In fact, it couldn’t be so perfect if the build quality was poor. The product, however, has a dual steel-bar build, which is crucial to support engines through long rebuilds.
The chain hooks of the tool are highly robust, and they are threaded to provide satisfactory performance. The support feet of the tool, which is anti-slip, is so adjustable that it helps you work on every kind of engine out there.
You may be a newbie or a professional. Whatever you are, you will find the tool extremely easy to assemble. And you will feel highly comfortable at the time of working with the tool.
If you consider the price along with the durability and performance, the product will not dishearten you. This is why we have put the product on our list of the top 8 engine support bar available in the market.
Key Features of the Product
- 1100 lbs capacity
- Adjustable chain hooks
- Dual-steel bar
- Universally compatible
- OEM standard
Highlighted Benefits
- The tool is compatible with both 6 and 4 cylinder engines.
- All the parts of the product are adjustable.
- The weight capacity is great for heavy-duty vehicles.
- The product comes with chains, so you can save few bucks in your pocket.
- You can buy the tool at an affordable price.
Potential Flaws
- The rubber feet of the tool is a little bit hard.
4. OEM Tools 24951 Engine Support Bar | Top Support Bar for Off-center Loads
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
OEM Tools 24951 is a 3-point engine support bar, which is renowned for being capable of maintaining off-center loads. Its sturdy build quality is another plus point that helps it stand out in the field of engine support bars.
To provide the facility of off-center loads management, the tool comes with 3-point support. However, if you consider its capacity, you will be glad to know that it can handle up to 700 pounds. Isn’t the capacity perfect for you? Well, you can look for other tools in that case.
When you buy the product, it will come with various fittings. That being said, you will get two adjustable hooks and a piece of adjustable transverse. You can expand the adjustable hook to 14”, while the transverse can reach 61”. As a result, you have nothing to worry about the adjustment.
The build quality, as we have already mentioned, is outstanding. Typically, the tool is made of robust steel. So there is no chance to question its durability. In fact, you can stay relaxed for a long time once you have this support bar in your garage.
In the end, we suggest you buy this sturdy support bar if you have a medium-duty or light-duty vehicle. If you buy it for a heavy-duty vehicle, you may end up frustrated. The fact is that its weight capacity is not perfect for heavy vehicles.
Key Features of the Product
- 700lbs capacity
- Steel construction
- Expandable hooks
- Expandable transverse
- 3-point support
Highlighted Benefits
- The tool is capable of handling all the off-center loads.
- You can adjust various fittings of the tool according to your demand.
- The product comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
- It is capable of holding engines tightly.
- The price of the support bar is affordable.
Potential Flaws
- You can’t use it for heavy-duty vehicles.
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5. SPECSTAR Engine Support Bar | Best Wear Resistant Support Bar
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A+
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
While you are in search of the good quality wear-resistant engine support bar, the SPECSTAR support bar has no alternative in the market. High-quality iron and protective powder coat are used to make the tool rigid and wear-resistant.
The load capacity of the tool is amazing. That being said, it can lift up to 1100 lbs. For this facility, you can choose the tool for any kind of vehicle out there. No matter whether you have a Sedan, a Sports Car, or an SUV, the tool will provide you with great performance.
As this is a universal engine support bar, professional auto mechanics tend to choose it. And for them, fine-tuning height is very important. For your kind information, the fine-tuning height of the tool is accurate, and it offers 7.87 inches of maximum lifting height.
On the other hand, the beamwidth of the tool is 59.06 inches. However, there is nothing to worry about if the width of your vehicle is less than 59.06 inches. As it is a universal engine support tool, the size of your vehicle doesn’t matter at all.
Though we have chosen the product for auto professionals, you can choose it even if you are a DIY enthusiast. The fact is that it is pretty easy to operate the tool. All you have to do is to place the tool in an appropriate position and take the iron chain to fasten the engine.
Engine mounting is no longer a troublesome job once you have this amazing engine support tool. The tool wins the race when you compare it with other available products in the market. That being said, the engine support bar is great from design to performance.
Key Features of the Product
- 1100 lbs capacity
- Dual hooks
- Two-point lift holder
- Steel construction
- Iron chains
Highlighted Benefits
- The tool is highly good at providing wear-resistant performance.
- It enables you to use it for all types of vehicles out there.
- To operate the tool is pretty easy for almost everyone.
- The powder coat of the tool is a great protective shield.
- The tool has adjustable and stable width.
Potential Flaws
- It may be unstable if it is not placed properly.
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6. Radiator Support Skid Bar | Best Support Bar for Corvette C6
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A
- Ease of Use: A
- Durability: A+
Made of aluminum materials, Radiator Support Skid Bar is another great product in the field of engine support bars. The tool is extremely rigid and wear-resistant, so it can serve you for a long time.
The product is undoubtedly OEM standard. In fact, it exceeds all the requirements of OEM specifications. To ensure this facility, the manufacturer has made the product undergo factory tests. So there is nothing to get worried about the perfection of the support bar.
As it comes with other installation accessories, you will find it extremely easy to install. To speak the truth, your installation process will be comfortable and convenient as well. Most importantly, you will get an instruction manual so that you don’t have to undergo any trouble.
For its sophisticated production, the tool will be protected from potential damage in the future. However, this tool is not compatible with all types of vehicles although it has a sky-high reputation in the field.
You can approach buying the product only if you have a vehicle that falls under Corvette C6 2005 to 2013. Otherwise, you will not be benefited from the tool. And if you have a vehicle of the mentioned model range, then you recommend waiting no longer to get the product.
Key Features of the Product
- OEM standard
- Aluminum materials
- Complete package
- Durable finish
- Wear-resistant
Highlighted Benefits
- The product is renowned for its rigid and sturdy build quality.
- It will provide you with durable performance.
- The quality of the product is inspected for satisfactory performance.
- The tool is capable of resisting all types of wear.
- The price of the tool is reasonable.
Potential Flaws
- The tool is not so stable.
7. Astro 5820 Engine Support Bar | Best Bar for Transaxle Removal
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
While you are looking for the transaxle removal of your vehicle, Astro 5820 Transverse Bar can be a reliable choice for you. Though it is not the strongest tool, you will get satisfactory performance out of it when you use it for small cars.
The tool has an effective support arm providing three-point support for the engine hoist. And it can manage off-center loads at the time of supporting the engine. By the way, you should not use it for heavy-duty vehicles as it can lift up to 700 lbs.
The package includes ⅛ cables, which are made of braided steel. You will also get a pair of adjustable hooks sized in 14 inches. You will find it stable while working for its adjustability and braided steel construction of the cables, by the way.
Apart from lifting engines, you can use the tool to pull transmissions. To speak the truth, front driver transmission work is pretty easy when you take the help of this amazing tool. That being said, the tool enables you to use it for multi-purposes.
When you start working with the engine, the tool will help you hold it in one particular spot. If you want to either lower or raise the engine, you have to do with the help of a hydraulic jack. The fact is that the threads are not robust enough to manage the pressure of raising and lowering.
Key Features of the Product
- 700 lbs capacity
- 3-point support
- Adjustable hooks
- Steel cables
- Lightweight tool
Highlighted Benefits
- This is a nice tool for front-wheel-drive cars.
- It is capable of maintaining off-center loads.
- You can work lonely with the help of this outstanding tool.
- For its beefy materials, the tool can serve you for a long time.
- The price of the tool is really very cheap.
Potential Flaws
- You can’t use it for heavy-duty vehicles.
- It doesn’t enable you to move the j hook in the other direction.
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8. Omega 44700 Engine Support Bar | Best Engine for Front Wheel Drive Vehicles
Grading of the Product
- Construction: A+
- Price: A+
- Versatility: A
- Ease of Use: A+
- Durability: A+
If you are looking for the best engine transverse bar for your front-wheel-drive vehicle, then Omega 44700 is the perfect one for you. The tool is made of a beefy steel frame, so there is nothing to worry about twisting and distortion.
It is capable of lifting up to 700 pounds, which is pretty standard for small to medium-duty cars. That being said, the tool is not a good choice for those who want to remove the transaxle of heavy-duty vehicles.
The package, however, includes a pair of adjustable hooks, which are 14 inches in length. The width of the tool can be expanded from 38 to 61 inches. As a result, you can use it for various types of vehicles.
The transverse bar meets all the OEM specifications, and it undergoes factory tests. Hence, it is highly capable of ensuring strength, stability, and safety. As a matter of fact, there are very few products that are as good as this one.
Those who are professional mechanics will find the tool helpful as well. Actually, the tool is a great choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Designed in black color, it is also capable of decorating your garage. In the end, we suggest you get this superb tool if you want a transverse bar for a front-wheel-drive car.
Key Features of the Product
- 700 lbs capacity
- Adjustable hooks
- Adjustable width
- Braided-steel cables
- Heavy-duty steel frame
Highlighted Benefits
- To lift the engines of front-wheel-drive vehicles is extremely handy.
- It is suitable not only for DIY enthusiasts but also for professionals.
- You will find it extremely easy to set up.
- The hardware included in the package is great.
- You can use this reasonably priced tool for heavy-duty jobs.
Potential Flaws
- As the capacity is low, you can’t use it for large vehicles.
Our Verdict
Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, the best choice for you can be the GoPlus Engine Support Bar. From top to bottom, the tool is an outstanding product in the field of engine support bars.
The most interesting thing about the product is that it has plastic grips making your repair work comfortable and enjoyable. And you can use the tool for any kind of engine out there. This feature of versatility is mostly wanted amongst professional mechanics.
Finally, the product is a complete package, requiring you no additional equipment. Even if you consider the durability of the tool, it is robust enough to win the race. Considering all these features and benefits, our verdict goes in favor of the GoPlus Engine Support Bar.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Engine Support Bars
1. Why should I use an engine support bar?
An engine support bar is a common tool to help you support the engine and the transmission while you are doing repair works. If you don’t use an engine support bar, your job of lifting the engine or the transmission will be one of the toughest jobs out there.
2. Is it a good decision to buy a random engine support bar?
No, it is an unwise decision to pick up a random engine support bar. This is because different engine support bars are perfect for different engines. In this case, you have to consider the weight capacity of the bar that you have chosen for you.
3. What is the perfect weight capacity for a small car engine?
Well, you can use a universal engine transverse bar to lift the engine of both a small car and a heavy car. But if you are under a tight budget, then the choice for you is to buy a mid-level support bar. That being said, you should buy a bar that is capable of lifting up to 700 pounds.
4. What is the perfect weight capacity for a heavy-duty vehicle?
When you have a heavy-duty vehicle, you should not buy a tool designed for lightweight cars. To get the best out of the bar, you must make sure that the bar is capable of lifting up to 1100 pounds.
5. Can you name some of the top class engine transverse tool brands?
Though there are many brands in the field of engine support tools, it is hard to find out the most reputable ones. By the way, the most popular brands in the field include GoPlus, OTC Tools, SPECSTAR, Astro, and Omega.
6. Do I need extra accessories while working with an engine support tool?
In order to make your repair works more convenient, you should use some extra accessories along with the support tool. The accessories, however, include hooks, chains, bars, levelers, and brackets.
7. What is the high durable material used for an engine support tool?
When you consider the materials used for making the tool, you might be worried about the durability of the product. For your kind information, you should buy a tool having steel construction for long life.
8. What is the top class support tool for a vehicle having a sloped hood?
The top class support tool for a sloped hooded vehicle is a three-point support bar. In fact, a three-point engine support tool has a unique leveling system for sloped hooded vehicles.
9. Is it necessary to buy a tool that provides adjustable width?
It depends on your working range. If you work with a variety of vehicles, then adjustable width is a must for you. On the other hand, adjustable width has no necessity when you work with a particular engine type.
10. Is it better to rent a support tool?
There are some people who work very often with the engines of their vehicles. If you are one of them, then we recommend you buy a support tool. But if have a vehicle that doesn’t require much engine work, then there is no need to buy a tool.
Wrapping Up
To do the basic engine works, you don’t need to be a mechanic. You just have to gather the courage of working. Apart from having courage, you need an engine support tool in your garage. That’s all you need to work with the engine of your vehicle!
When you have a tool, the rest of your work is pretty easy to do. Though an engine support tool helps you save both your money and energy, you must come out with the best engine support bar. Otherwise, you will end up in great frustration.
