Choosing among engine hoists for trucks means balancing lifting capacity, reach, portability, and the space available in your garage or worksite. The right crane can make engine removal and heavy-component handling safer and more manageable.
This roundup compares 10 options ranging from compact hitch-mounted hoists to full-size 2-ton folding cherry pickers, so you can match the design to your truck, workload, and storage needs.
Best 10 Engine Hoists for Trucks Picks for 2026
Best Hitch-Mount Option
- Hydraulic operation for single-person lifting
- 36.2- to 56.7-inch adjustable boom
- 2-inch hitch mount with 360-degree swivel
Best For: Pickup owners lifting loads up to 500 pounds
Best Heavy-Duty Folding Pick
- 4,400-pound hydraulic lifting capacity
- Four adjustable load settings
- Folds for more compact storage
Best For: Workshops handling engines, transmissions, and machinery
Best High-Capacity Truck Crane
- 500-, 800-, and 1,200-pound capacity settings
- Three telescoping boom adjustments
- 360-degree rotation with hitch mounting
Best For: Truck owners lifting engines, generators, and machinery
Best 2-in-1 Workshop Hoist
- 4,400-pound capacity with an 8-ton hydraulic pump
- Four adjustable boom positions
- Combines crane and leveling-tool functions
Best For: Garages needing a high-capacity engine and transmission hoist
Heavy-Duty Choice
Garvee 2-Ton Folding Engine Hoist
- 4,400-pound capacity with four boom settings
- Six steel casters for controlled mobility
- Folds without tools for compact storage
Best For: Workshops, farms, and mobile mechanics
Practical Workshop Pick
2-Ton Folding Hydraulic Cherry Picker
- Four boom positions from 1,100 to 4,400 pounds
- Six locking swivel casters improve maneuverability
- Foldable, powder-coated steel construction
Best For: Garages and repair shops
Mobile Mechanic Option
2-Ton Foldable Hydraulic Hoist
- Marked boom positions up to 4,400 pounds
- Six swivel and locking steel casters
- Tool-free folding for mobile storage
Best For: Mobile mechanics and compact workshops
Best Value Folding Hoist
- Lifts up to 4,400 pounds
- Four-position adjustable boom
- Folding frame with six casters
Best For: Home garages and workshops lifting truck engines and related components
Best for Compact Garages
Maxsa 2-Ton Folding Engine Hoist
- 4,400-pound lifting capacity
- Folds flat without disassembly
- 38- to 57-inch telescopic boom
Best For: Space-conscious garages and workshops handling automotive loads
Best for Mobile Heavy-Duty Use
- Supports loads up to 4,400 pounds
- Six steel casters with locking support
- Tool-free foldable design
Best For: Mobile mechanics, farms, and workshops with varied lifting needs
Best Hitch-Mount Option – Portable 500-Lb Truck Crane
For shoppers comparing engine hoists for trucks, the XtremepowerUS 500-lb crane is a compact hitch-mounted option for pickup-bed lifting. Its hydraulic design, adjustable boom, and 360-degree swivel help one person position lighter engines, PWCs, and other loads.
Best For: Pickup owners who need a portable crane for loads up to 500 pounds and want to preserve tailgate clearance.
Pros:
- Hydraulic lifting is designed for single-person operation.
- Adjustable 36.2- to 56.7-inch boom and 360-degree rotation improve positioning flexibility.
- Fits a standard 2-inch receiver hitch and includes adjustable support legs.
Cons:
- Its 500-pound capacity is lower than the larger truck cranes in this roundup.
- At 72 pounds, it may not be ideal for frequent manual installation and removal.
This is a practical choice when portability and hitch compatibility matter more than maximum lifting capacity. Confirm that your truck and receiver setup are appropriate for the intended load.
Best Heavy-Duty Folding Pick – 2-Ton Foldable Cherry Picker
Parts-Diyer 2 Ton Engine Hoist Foldable Cherry Picker, Heavy Duty Engine Lift Hoist
Check Price On AmazonThis 2-ton cherry picker is a strong candidate for buyers seeking engine hoists for trucks in a garage or workshop. It combines a 4,400-pound rated capacity with four adjustable load settings, retractable outriggers, and a foldable frame for easier storage.
Best For: Mechanics and workshops that need a high-capacity floor-standing hoist for engines, transmissions, axles, and other equipment.
Pros:
- Supports up to 4,400 pounds with four capacity settings from 0.5 to 2 tons.
- Retractable outriggers, locking 360-degree casters, and a streamlined base support stability.
- Folding design reduces storage requirements when the hoist is not in use.
- Powder-coated steel construction is designed to resist corrosion.
Cons:
- Its 127.9-pound weight makes it less portable than hitch-mounted truck cranes.
- This floor-standing design requires suitable workspace and maneuvering room.
Choose this model when lifting capacity and workshop versatility are priorities. The foldable frame adds convenience, but it is better suited to a dedicated work area than quick truck-bed deployment.
Best High-Capacity Truck Crane – 1,200-Lb Rotating Hoist
Among engine hoists for trucks, this hydraulic crane stands out for its three boom capacities and 1,200-pound maximum rating. The receiver hitch mount, telescoping boom, and 360-degree rotation are designed to help position equipment across a pickup bed.
Best For: Pickup owners, contractors, agricultural users, and workshops needing a versatile crane for engines, generators, machinery, and cargo.
Pros:
- Offers 500-, 800-, and 1,200-pound load capacities to match the task.
- Three boom-length adjustments provide flexibility for different reach requirements.
- 360-degree swivel rotation supports positioning loads across the truck bed.
- Heavy-duty steel construction is intended for stable lifting operations.
Cons:
- No manufacturer warranty is listed in the supplied details.
- The notes do not specify the receiver size or the crane’s item weight.
This is a compelling truck-focused option when a 500-pound crane is too limited but a full-size shop cherry picker is unnecessary. Check vehicle, hitch, and load requirements before use.
Best 2-in-1 Workshop Hoist – DEXSO 2-Ton Cherry Picker
The DEXSO combines a 4,400-pound hydraulic engine crane with a leveling tool, making it a practical choice for buyers comparing engine hoists for trucks and workshop repairs. Four boom positions, retractable outriggers, and a folding frame support both load control and storage.
Best For: Garages and mechanics handling heavy engines, transmissions, motorcycles, axles, and related equipment.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty steel frame and 8-ton hydraulic pump support up to 4,400 pounds.
- Four boom settings cover 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 tons.
- 2-in-1 design combines an engine crane and leveling tool.
- Retractable outriggers and folding construction improve adaptability and storage.
Cons:
- At 141.1 pounds, it is relatively heavy to move and set up.
- As a floor-standing cherry picker, it is less convenient for direct hitch-mounted truck use.
The DEXSO makes the most sense for users who want high capacity plus leveling functionality in one workshop hoist. Its foldable design helps with storage, while the substantial frame favors stationary repair work.
Heavy-Duty Choice – Garvee 2-Ton Folding Engine Hoist
For shoppers comparing engine hoists for trucks, the Garvee 2-ton cherry picker combines a 4,400-pound maximum rating with adjustable boom positions and a foldable frame. Its six steel casters and hydraulic pump make it suited to moving truck engines, transmissions, and other heavy equipment around a workshop or jobsite.
Best For: Workshops, serious DIYers, farms, and mobile mechanics that need a portable 2-ton hoist with compact storage.
Pros:
- Four load settings cover 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 tons.
- Six steel casters support 360-degree movement and include a central locking design.
- Folds to about one-third of its size without tools.
- 4 mm steel construction and triple-layer anti-rust coating support demanding use.
Cons:
- At approximately 100 pounds, it is substantial to move when folded.
- Its large working footprint may be challenging in very tight garages.
Choose this model if stability, broad equipment compatibility, and tool-free storage matter most. Confirm the load rating for the selected boom position and use approved lifting points before raising a truck engine.
Practical Workshop Pick – 2-Ton Folding Hydraulic Cherry Picker
If you need engine hoists for trucks with straightforward workshop versatility, this 2-ton hydraulic crane offers four boom positions, six locking swivel casters, and a foldable design. The steel frame and powder-coated finish are intended for indoor or outdoor handling of engines and other heavy loads.
Best For: Auto repair shops, garages, construction sites, warehouses, and other spaces needing a foldable 4,400-pound hoist.
Pros:
- Four rated positions range from 1,100 to 4,400 pounds.
- Six swivel casters provide 360-degree maneuverability and locking control.
- Folding design supports transport and space-saving storage.
- Glossy anti-rust paint is easy to clean and suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
Cons:
- The supplied capacity details list a 4,400-pound closed-boom rating and a 1,000-pound extended-boom rating, so position selection is important.
- Assembly and disassembly are required for setup or transport.
- The included manufacturer warranty is listed as six months after delivered tracking status.
This is a practical option when folding storage, broad application coverage, and caster mobility are priorities. Pay close attention to the boom-position capacity rather than relying only on the headline 2-ton rating.
Mobile Mechanic Option – 2-Ton Foldable Hydraulic Hoist
Among engine hoists for trucks, this 2-ton foldable hydraulic model emphasizes controlled lifting and portability. Its marked boom positions, six casters, and tool-free folding design help with truck engines, transmissions, boat motors, tractor parts, and machinery in garages or equipment sheds.
Best For: Mobile mechanics and limited-workspace workshops that need a foldable hoist for varied automotive and equipment-lifting tasks.
Pros:
- Hydraulic lifting and four marked ratings cover 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 tons.
- Six steel casters include swivel and locking functions for positioning loads.
- Folds without tools for storage in a garage, service vehicle, or equipment area.
- 4 mm steel framing and triple-layer anti-rust coating suit demanding maintenance work.
Cons:
- Its approximately 100-pound weight may limit easy solo transport over distance.
- The large dimensions require adequate clearance during use and storage.
This hoist stands out for users who move between jobs or have limited storage space. Use the marked capacity for the selected boom position and approved lifting points when handling truck engines or other heavy components.
Best Value Folding Hoist – 2-Ton Hydraulic Cherry Picker
For shoppers comparing engine hoists for trucks, this Garvee 2-ton cherry picker offers a practical combination of lifting capacity, adjustable reach, and compact storage. Its hydraulic system is rated for loads up to 4,400 pounds, while the folding frame suits garages and workshops where floor space matters.
Best For: Home mechanics, garages, and repair shops handling truck engines, transmissions, axles, and other loads under 4,400 pounds.
Pros:
- 2-ton, 4,400-pound lifting capacity with an 8-ton hydraulic pump.
- Four boom settings from 0.5 ton to 2 tons for different load sizes.
- Combines an engine crane and leveling tool in one design.
- Folding frame and six casters make storage and movement easier.
Cons:
- At 141.1 pounds, it is substantial to move or position.
- The supplied details do not specify the exact folded dimensions.
This is a sensible all-around choice when you want truck-engine lifting capability plus a space-saving frame. The adjustable boom and multi-use design add flexibility for occasional or regular workshop work.
Best for Compact Garages – Maxsa 2-Ton Folding Engine Hoist
Among engine hoists for trucks, the Maxsa Innovations model stands out for its folding storage design and telescopic boom. It supports up to 4,400 pounds, reaches from 38 to 57 inches, and uses six swivel casters to help position loads across a workshop.
Best For: Compact home garages and professional workshops needing a fold-flat hoist for engines, transmissions, axles, and other automotive or industrial loads.
Pros:
- Reinforced steel frame and hydraulic system support a 2-ton capacity.
- Folds flat without disassembly to help reclaim floor space.
- Four-position telescopic boom covers 0.5-ton through 2-ton settings.
- Six swivel casters, including two locking casters, support mobility and positioning.
Cons:
- Its 147.7-pound weight may make frequent relocation demanding.
- The supplied information does not provide a specific folded height or footprint.
The Maxsa is a strong fit when storage efficiency is nearly as important as lifting capacity. Its adjustable boom and caster layout make it adaptable for light-truck work and broader shop applications.
Best for Mobile Heavy-Duty Use – Garvee 2-Ton Portable Hoist
For engine hoists for trucks that need to serve more than a fixed workshop, this Garvee model emphasizes portability and broad-duty construction. The 2-ton hydraulic crane has four load settings, six steel casters, and a foldable design intended for storage in compact spaces or transport between jobs.
Best For: Serious DIYers, mobile mechanics, farms, docks, and workshops lifting truck transmissions, boat motors, farm equipment, and other loads up to 4,400 pounds.
Pros:
- Hydraulic pump and four settings support loads from 0.5 ton to 2 tons.
- Six steel casters provide 360-degree mobility and include a central locking type.
- Folds without tools and is designed to reduce its storage size substantially.
- 4 mm steel frame and triple-layer anti-rust coating are suited to demanding use.
Cons:
- The listed product dimensions are relatively large when set up.
- The supplied details do not identify the exact locking arrangement for every caster.
This model makes the most sense for buyers who need a hoist that can move between varied lifting tasks and storage locations. Its steel construction, foldable frame, and multi-industry use give it a particularly versatile profile.
How We Picked the Best Engine Hoists for Trucks
We focused on practical specifications that affect real-world lifting: rated capacity, boom adjustability, hydraulic operation, caster configuration, folding storage, hitch compatibility, and overall portability. We also considered whether each design suits occasional home-garage work, repeated shop use, or demanding construction and truck-service tasks.
Capacity ratings are listed by the manufacturers and should never be treated as a reason to exceed the hoist’s limit. Actual safe performance also depends on boom position, load balance, floor condition, attachment hardware, and correct operating procedures.
Quick Comparison
| Hoist type | Typical capacity | Best for | Main advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folding cherry picker | Up to 2 tons | Garages and repair shops | High capacity with easier storage |
| Adjustable hydraulic crane | 500–1,200 pounds | Truck beds and jobsites | Flexible reach and positioning |
| Hitch-mounted jib hoist | About 500 pounds | Light-duty pickup loading | Compact, vehicle-mounted operation |
Key Buying Factors for Engine Hoists for Trucks
Capacity and Boom Position
Choose a hoist with enough rated capacity for the heaviest load you expect to lift, including attached accessories. Remember that extending the boom usually reduces the safe lifting capacity. Adjustable boom positions provide reach flexibility but require careful attention to the rating at each setting.
Hydraulics and Controls
Hydraulic rams provide controlled lifting, while a hand lever can make incremental adjustments easier in a confined workspace. Look for smooth operation, accessible controls, and a release mechanism that lowers loads gradually rather than abruptly.
Mobility, Footprint, and Storage
Six-caster folding cherry pickers are useful when you need to roll a suspended engine across a smooth shop floor and then store the crane against a wall. Check door widths, floor transitions, and the folded dimensions before buying. Hitch-mounted models save floor space but depend on a properly installed, compatible receiver.
Safety and Compatibility
Confirm that the boom, hook, chain, and mounting points are suitable for the load. Use the hoist only on a stable, level surface, keep people clear of suspended loads, and follow the manufacturer’s inspection and maintenance instructions. A truck-mounted crane should also be secured against unwanted rotation or movement.
Who Should Buy Which Engine Hoists for Trucks?
Choose a 2-ton folding cherry picker if you remove engines regularly, need substantial lifting capacity, or want a versatile shop crane that can be stored between jobs.
Choose an adjustable 500- to 1,200-pound truck crane for lighter truck-bed, construction, or field-service lifting where boom reach and rotational positioning matter more than maximum capacity.
Choose a hitch-mounted jib hoist if compact storage and quick vehicle-based lifting are priorities, and your loads remain comfortably within its lower capacity rating. For frequent professional use, prioritize frame rigidity, caster quality, hydraulic reliability, and readily available replacement parts over the lowest purchase price.