P201 Engine Stand Yoke Questions... Receiver Shaft Diameter / Sir Tools / QSC / Zalex

[RichPugh]

So, I already own a larger generic engine stand (4-leg, Harbor Freight 2000lb) and I'd like to purchase either a nice yoke or combination of adapter ring/hardware to hold my 3.0 SC engine while I work on it.

I'd also like to create a make-shift engine test stand using a Zalex starter adapter (among other components) for the purposes of starting and lightly running an engine prior to installing in a vehicle or to display a running engine for a potential buyer. 911 and possibly T4.

Note: My existing stand's receiving column is 80mm ID. The receiving plate that comes with it is approx 78mm OD.

After doing what I'd call "extensive searching", I'm left with a few questions. I believe a quality aftermarket P201 tool is a good choice but...

1. Is there any notable difference between the QSC product found online and the SIR TOOLS product sold here on PP? (I'm leaning towards the SIR TOOLS product with the Stomski hardware simply because they seem like the nicest combo for the money.)
2. Is the receiver shaft diameter 60mm on both of those, like the actual P201?
3. Do either come with an adapter sleeve to fit a stand with a larger column diameter of 80mm ID?
4. Would a engine stand Adapter Ring be a smarter purchase to be used in conjunction with my generic receiver arms? (since half the adapter ring distributes the weight and can be adapter to mount to my generic receiver arms and allows clearance for the flywheel and possibly for the Zalex starter adapter)
5. Would the Stomski hardware work the exact same on an adapter ring as the aftermarket yoke base? (I assume then the generic receiver arms would bolt to the ring in whatever threaded holes it offers?)
6. Will the Zalex half-ring adapter work with half of an adapter ring on a generic receiver?
7. Will the Zalex FULL ring be the answer to all the issues... as it will support the flywheel side of the engine (with assorted hardware), allow for the starter operation AND mount to my existing generic receiver on my existing stand? (Zalex did say if I intend to use the ring in conjunction with a generic stand to hold the engine up in the air, that a counter-stand or prop stand must be used to carry the weight of the engine).

Like I said, my ultimate goal is to be able to have the engine up in the air, on the stand with a Zalex adapter ring (and control box) to start and run the engine before installing it into the car. Not necessarily TUNE it, but just get it to start and run.

Any experience with a similar situation would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! - Rich

Here's some pics with 4cyl engines but I figured I'd post them for discussion:
Yoke (QSC brand I believe) supporting engine w/ Zalex half-ring starter adapter:


Adapter ring mated to generic receiver plate/arms:

[RichPugh]

p.s., for $97, I guess I could go get another similar 4 wheel stand with what I assume has a 60mm column diameter... that would make the choice probably pretty simple, LOL. It just doesnt have the folding legs to store it easier. I really do prefer the 4 wheel stand for better stability, mobility and since I can slide my engine table life between the legs for easy transfer.

[JJ 911SC]

Originally Posted by RichPugh

... (I'm leaning towards the SIR TOOLS product with the Stomski hardware simply because they seem like the nicest combo for the money.)...

Good choice.