I like this gantry. It works well and seems to be built fairly well. I have power lines around the house so being able to lower it was a must. A standard A-frame wouldn’t work for me.

I have t gotten the bolt out yet. The engine is still hanging from my hoist in the garage.

Some updates...

Starboard is out and in the garage:





The top end is off the port engine. I have not removed the valve to see what’s up but it definitely definitely put a little dent in the piston. Oops. Fortunately, it’s livable.




Leakage was acceptable once I had the valves adjusted (except number 7) so the bottom end is good. Time to start the rest of the disassembling so new parts can go on.

Your 311 is able to fit between the uprights of the harbor freight gantry? I was thinking I would need a longer top beam.
nice work! Good luck with the build, I’ll be checking in for progress pics

It fits but it's really close. I'd say that it has about two inches per side in the stern. The widest area of the boat is near the middle of the length. If I had a 357, it probably wouldn't work.

Ideally I like to build one with uprights mounted against my walls and span length of garage. In the long run would take up less space,but would need a forklift to assemble.
I’ll probably go with the harbor freight one in the long run,not like I know anyone giving away I beams so I could build it cheaper. Lol

What hydraulic steering is that? Is it add on or full hydraulic to the helm?

Tyler, that’s a Latham system, full hydraulic.

F’ing bolt lol.

I tried a few things last night to remove it. It just rounds it off more and more. I’ve thought about getting a set of bolt biters to try taking it off but they’re expensive. If I can get my MIG in there I might try welding a bolt to the one stuck in there. I don’t think I can get my angle grinder in the space.

Use the right fasteners!

I have most of the starboard side torn down now. I just need that bolt out of there!

Hopefully if you weld to the bolt it doesn’t weaken it to point of braking when you start cranking on it.if you can grind the head off will it leave enough to grab on to

If you can post a picture of this dreaded work area, we may be able offer some brainstorming. I've had good luck heating with a torch and dabbing it with beeswax.
Many bolts have broken heads. Weld a nut to the remaining stud to get it off once engine is out.

Any way to get a die grinder in there to take the head off? Be it a small cut off wheel used sideways and grind it a little at a time, or even a burr bit.