Ive always used a heavy duty chain, with forged 3/8 bolts and washers screwed into front of my heads on all four corners. Thinking there has to be a better way. Not that i ever had a problem, just curious what setups other guys used. Im not a fan of just two points connected with one chain when my motor is dangling 10ft in the air. I saw the setup where there are nylon straps that get bolted to the exhaust manifold bolt holes, at four points, looks nice.

Ideally i'd like a setup where i can remove or install engines complete with headers and everthing. The billet head brackets are nice, but pricey.

I've used this style of pull plate many times with zero problems.

I just pulled both my fully dressed 454's with a pull plate just like this!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ENGIN...-/190331577164

These plates bolt to the heads using the intake bolts. One on front left, other on back right. They stay on and allow you to pull the engine out without taking anything off, just disconnect the usual stuff.

I dont know who makes them, but they are handy.

I also use the lift plate where the carb bolts...got mine from jegs, fits 4150 & 4500's love it...

Mercruiser - http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show_...And+Components

#4 in the parts diagram. Just look them up for your engine. BTW, this allows you to use an engine tilter also so you can tilt it in to clear the inner transom and what not. You can't tilt the engine if you use a carb plate.

Those carb plates always scared the crap outa me. Obviously they work as I know lots who use them but it just looks scarey.

I just use a chain bolted to heads and a friends wrecker

That's what I've got - very handy...

Problem with the carb plates for me is i have blowers. So cant use them. Even the standard merc lifting brackets on the intake can make it a little tight with the blowers. I suppose i can just pop the blowers off for removal and go that route..

I use these too. Very handy.

This is the best ever!
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PIT-201/
Our shop uses one to lift all types of engines. Pro Stock, injected sprint car engines, 4 cylinder engines, you name it