I want to build an engine test stand

Question:

I’ve been looking for plans to build an engine test stand but have been unable to find them. Can you give me any information where to find them?

Answer:

You can start with a commercially available heavy-duty engine stand and make modifications to transform it into a test stand. I would suggest adding additional bracing to strengthen the stand, adding a “control console” behind the stand to mount gauges, a starter switch, etc., and adding a radiator support in front of the stand to mount a radiator.

Mount the whole thing on high capacity casters fitted with integral brakes that allow you to easily lock and unlock two of the wheels.

If you’re short on shop space you can easily make your test stand modular by bolting the main sections together, or fastening them together with some quick release pins.

It’s really not all that complicated to figure out as you go, but if you want to start with plans you can find several for sale in the $10-$15 range by searching on eBay for “engine test stand plans.”