A couple months later, I had opportunity to purchase (regretfully, as it turned out) a used diesel engine, and wanted to get the hoist again to make it easy to lug the thing out of my truck at home. This time, I got smart. At the rental store, you always see the signs that say, "We sell what we rent", or some such. So, I decided to buy the hoist this time, since I knew I'd need it at least a couple more times (if only I'd known what was really in store...).
I had to argue with the arrogant counter-guy for some reason.
He said, "Well, I don't know if I can sell it. I'll have to check."
I said, "Well, who do you have to check with? I don't want to rent it now for $15 and then come back to buy it later. I want to buy it right now, and not rent it for the day."
Grudgingly, he phoned whoever it was in the vast rental conglomerate's organization to determine that, yes indeed, every tool was, as advertised, actually for sale.
I think he was ready to come to fisticuffs before finally acquiescing, dear fellow, to sell me the hoist for $100. Money well spent.
The hoist features a 2-ton capacity and 20-foot lift height--more than enough to easily lower an engine from the deck to the ground. I've used it any number of times since, for engine-related work and other stuff too.
You have to be careful with the chain not to scar up something you don't want to ruin, but in a derelict boat you can spin the hoist with abandon. The hoist sure makes lifting engines a breeze.
Tim
