Do I really need Smart Tabs/ "A" Frame for eng change

**9Ball** · 09-23-2011, 05:40 PM

I am going to buy a 94 2000SC, I was thinking of installing Smart Tabs. But does a boat this size really need them? The other winter project is replacing the engine. I’ll be sure to post pictures. Oh almost forgot, What should I use to lift the engine out. I was thinking of making a “A” Frame! If anyone has pic's of what they used that would be a big help.

Thanks,

Todd

I'll post pics of the new boat as soon as I can.

**seapuppy** · 09-23-2011, 08:51 PM

Todd...
we've had several discussions on that subject and the consesus is yes..put the tabs on..it will help get onto plane and then just stays flat while running at speed....
as for the engine pull...I've seen everything from an A-Frame to a forklift...so...if your going to do it yourself, and in the back yard...I'd build an A-frame out of 4x4 legs and at least 2 4x6's sistered together for strength...use either a chain fall or come along to lift the engine....

your going to have to pull the drive off first and then the engine....definitely post photo's...we'd like to see!!!

SP

**9Ball** · 09-24-2011, 07:49 PM

Might be middle of nov. But I will post pictures

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**shrew** · 09-26-2011, 09:22 AM

I've used an A frame made of welded tube steel and a chain fall to pull a couple of 350's from a friend's boat a few years ago. I used a crane to do my 454 -> 496 swap as well. Travel lifts have a crane on them. You might want to see if you can pay a boat yard/Marina to use their crane on their travel lift. It shouldn't cost that much. Many (MOST) will charge by the hour. I'd pull the drive, disconnect everything, and loosen (not remove) the mounting bolts from the tabs, then haul it down there. It will be done in less than an hour. Then, when you're ready, do the same in reverse to install. You shouldn't need to do the entire engine swap in the yard. So for 2 (3 at the worst) yard hours for the lift, you could get the project done. Factor the cost to build an A-frame and consider the amount of times you'll actually use it and then consider the cost of paying the hourly fee at the yard.

**9Ball** · 09-26-2011, 11:02 AM

Originally Posted by shrew

I've used an A frame made of welded tube steel and a chain fall to pull a couple of 350's from a friend's boat a few years ago. I used a crane to do my 454 -> 496 swap as well. Travel lifts have a crane on them. You might want to see if you can pay a boat yard/Marina to use their crane on their travel lift. It shouldn't cost that much. Many (MOST) will charge by the hour. I'd pull the drive, disconnect everything, and loosen (not remove) the mounting bolts from the tabs, then haul it down there. It will be done in less than an hour. Then, when you're ready, do the same in reverse to install. You shouldn't need to do the entire engine swap in the yard. So for 2 (3 at the worst) yard hours for the lift, you could get the project done. Factor the cost to build an A-frame and consider the amount of times you'll actually use it and then consider the cost of paying the hourly fee at the yard.

Didn't think of it that way..... Hmmmmm something to ponder and research.

Thank You

Todd

**oneradride** · 12-20-2011, 06:11 PM

Kind of an old post but I been waiting to share this picture...

Yes, I used a tree.....LOL
Just to get it out..... Honeyman rentals here in Omaha has a towable hoist that does go high enough to get it back it, I can attest to this first hand.