Engine alignment: jacking methods

[Trundlebug]

When I last checked my engine alignment, I realised it could do with raising up a bit on the engine mounts to get it "bob on".
When I came to adjust them, I found the rear mounts were adjustable OK using the nuts fitted to the mounts, but the front mounts seemed to have no adjustable nut to enable me to screw them upwards and raise the engine. As I only need to raise them a few mm, does anyone know of any good methods for jacking up the front of the engine to enable me to squeeze a shim or two under the mountings?

The engines are twin Volvo Penta MD31A's, on what look like standard Vetus or Volvo oblong engine mountings. Both engines could do with adjustment. Accessibility at the front of the engines, particularly on the outboard sides next to the fuel tanks, is very restricted.
Does anyone know the secret trick for doing this?

 

[chrisc]

Shims ?

 

[Trundlebug]

Yes, shims are what I want to fit, but how to I get them in there? There's nothing to use as a jacking point from which to lift the front of the engine, other than the bearer running along each side of the engine. Would a crowbar / jemmy be up to it?

No room to put a bottle jack, and nothing strong enough to rest it on even if there was. Has anyone else ever had this problem? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[nedmin]

You want a tommy bar one about 2ft. long will do what you want to do.

 

[PCUK]

BIt of scaffold pole works wonders!

 

[doug748]

Any chance of lifting using a rope bridle and hoist from above? Gives very precise control and less chance of damage over metal levers.

 

[mikehibb]

Do not laugh.

But how about a car tyre inner tube under the sump and a foot pump. It would spread the load and not cause damage.

( just re-read original post, might need truck tyre inner tube)

 

[nedmin]

If you use a bar to lever can you get 2 shallow wooden wedges ready to put under the engine mounting brackets put them back to back and this should give you some adjustment if you tap them at each end together or push in while levering. Watch your fingers. With 2 MD31,s I assume its a steel cruiser so you should have plenty of "meat" where the mounts are.