Video: How to Build a Versatile Engine Cradle

Many engine cradles on the market are dedicated to a single application or won’t support new aftermarket racing blocks that are missing factory engine-mount bosses. Chris Jarman at Eliminator Kustoms has produced a video that shows how to fabricate an engine cradle that is very versatile and can adapt to more than one application.

The cradle is built from 1×1 mild-steel square tubing and measures 30x20x20. That may seem like a rather large footprint, however, Jarman notes that today’s engines may have dry-sump accessories hanging off the front. That additional weight can tip over cradles that don’t have the extra support built into his design. His design is also tall enough to support deep-sump pans.

The video shows the fabrication process from start to finish with explanations and tips on all the steps. Besides the tubing, which is available at most home-improvement stores, the fabricator will also need tabs with 3/8-inch holes. Jarman says these can be made from steel plate or purchased at a metal shop.

Jarman’s design uses the bellhousing mounts for the rear support and front accessory mounts for the strut supports. This design also allows the use of racing blocks that require motor plates.

Overall, it’s a very simple and clean design that will help organize any shop. For a little more mobility, support plates and casters could easily be attached.

About the author

Mike Magda

Mike Magda is a veteran automotive writer with credits in publications such as Racecar Engineering, Hot Rod, Engine Technology International, Motor Trend, Automobile, Automotive Testing Technology and Professional Motorsport World.
Read My Articles

Horsepower delivered to your inbox.

Build your own custom newsletter with the content you love from EngineLabs, directly to your inbox, absolutely FREE!

Free WordPress Themes
EngineLabs NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

EngineLabs

EngineLabs

We'll send you raw engine tech articles, news, features, and videos every week from EngineLabs.

EngineLabs

EngineLabs NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

EngineLabs

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...


LSX Mag
Late Model LS Vehicles
Dragzine
Drag Racing
StreetMuscle
Muscle Car & Hot Rods

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...

  • LSX Mag Late Model LS Vehicles
  • Dragzine Drag Racing
  • Street Muscle Mag Muscle Car & Hot Rods

EngineLabs

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

EngineLabs

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

Loading