need advice on transporting my Mercruiser 5.0 in a pickup

[Joe from ny]

can anyone advise what i need to transport my Mercruiser 5.0 motor in the bed of my pickup truck? I am bringing it from one marina to another. they will load and unload, i just need to know what to bring, such as lengths of 2x4, ratchet straps, etc...
thanks

[wymbly1971]

I've hauled around many V8 car engines in the back of my truck.

Believe it or not, I find setting them on an old tire (no rim) the easiest solution short of having a custom cradle. Usually, I just use a 16" light truck tire. The tire bends and folds in all the right spots, supports the engine well and has enough friction that it doesn't slide around the bed of the truck too easily.

For extra security you could use 4 ratchet straps to corners, but I've rarely found it necessary for short road trips.

[TurninTurtle]

Yep, old tire is great. Then use ratchet straps or ropes to secure it, so it won't slide and tip.

All it takes is one panic stop to ruin your day if its not tied down. Truck stops and the engine keeps going right into the front of the bed and back of the cab. (potentially all the way through the windshield taking out anything and everything on the way.)

[Joe from ny]

I wound up using two cinder blocks, one Under each motor mount and two heavy ratchet straps over the motor to the sides of the bed.it was pouring rain, so I didn't get photos.
Thanks for the replies.

[NoTies]

Why did you ask for advice?

[Joe from ny]

Originally Posted by NoTies

Why did you ask for advice?

Because I didn't know the yard was going to be so cooperative and hands on. They said that was the way they send all motors out of the yard to limit their liability of the motor sliding out the back of the truck. What are you concerned about? you didn't give any advice in this thread.