Shop Tools Appraisal

Cummins Tools Hydraulic Engine Hoist / Shop Crane

The item is a two-tone blue and yellow hydraulic engine hoist or shop crane, designed for lifting heavy objects like vehicle engines. Its primary structure is robust steel, painted in a deep blue, forming the vertical support and the base frame. Attached to the top horizontal blue bar is a yellow label, partially visible, which appears to bear the brand name 'CUMMINS TOOLS'. The lifting mechanism is a large blue hydraulic ram, centrally mounted, connected to a spring-loaded return mechanism. A yellow U-shaped handle or frame is prominently featured, likely for maneuvering or supporting the hydraulic cylinder. The base of the hoist features two broad, flat yellow sections, which serve as the lifting arms or stabilizers, with visible bolt holes suggesting adjustability or attachment points. The entire unit is on small, recessed wheels at the very bottom of the yellow sections, indicating it is designed to be mobile. Condition-wise, the item shows significant signs of use and wear consistent with a piece of workshop equipment. The paintwork, particularly the yellow, is heavily abraded and chipped in multiple areas, revealing the bare metal beneath. There are numerous scratches, scuffs, and some areas of surface rust, especially on the yellow components, indicating its age and constant use in a demanding environment. The blue painted surfaces also show wear, though perhaps slightly less severely than the yellow. All visible bolts, welds, and structural components appear intact, suggesting functional integrity despite the cosmetic wear. The hydraulic cylinder appears to be in working order, though its exact operational smoothness cannot be determined from the image. The general craftsmanship appears to be industrial-grade, built for durability and strength rather than aesthetic appeal. This type of hoist would typically be found in an automotive repair shop, private garage, or similar industrial setting. Based on the visible wear and the 'CUMMINS TOOLS' branding, it appears to be a practical, utilitarian piece of equipment likely from the last few decades, designed for heavy-duty lifting tasks.