[Private_collector]

Phil, I dont think having the two wheel end fixed would suit my needs. When I need to move the whole thing around outside on uneven ground, I dont want the most animated end of the trolley being the one wheel end. At one point, I considered having all castor wheels. Very pleased I reonsidered that idea. Removing the issue of stability on the gravel, having castor on single wheel SHOULD give better manouverability on concrete floor. Especially so in restricted space. I would have gone that way, if I didnt want to go outside with it.

My solid tyres dont feel to have flat spots. Im sure I would feel something if they had suffered thus. The engine I had basically discarded in preference for the recently acquired French block, had been sitting on that trolley for around 12 months or thereabouts. I would imagine the extent of any flat spot developing is proportionate to the weight rating of the individual wheel/tyre sets being used. Mine are rated at 300kg each. I chose tyres with a tread pattern, so they wouldnt slip around, but with the weight of an engine above them, I guess that would have been unlikely to happen anyway. Also the tyre compound is VERY dense. Sorry I cant recall whether they are considered rubber, plastic, or something else.

No idea whatsoever, with regards to engine weight, though it is something I have tried to find out! No one seems to want to give an approximation, not even the local engine rebuilding workshop. When I was still considering assembling the engine myself, I intended to buy a rebuild stand that would take 900kg (2000lbs). I figured that should cover any engine I would ever work with (unless I wanted to rebuild a Pratt & Whittney radial engine).

I cant get used to seeing engines hanging off stands, with just 4 bolts going into the bell housing. It just looks so WRONG, but everyone I have spoken to, that has done engines this way, assure me it is actually safe. Still gives me the creeps though.