AP Astro Pneumatic 5820 Transverse Engine Support Bar for FWD — 31–64 in Span, 700 lb Capacity

The AP Astro Pneumatic 5820 is a transverse engine support bar with an adjustable support arm that holds front-wheel-drive engines up to 700 lb for safe transaxle removal.

This engine support bar is built for mechanics and DIYers who need to secure a front-wheel-drive engine during transmission or transaxle service. The unit combines a telescoping transverse bar and a three-point support arm that stabilizes off-center loads, while braided steel cables and adjustable hooks fasten to engine lift points. It’s a compact, lighter-weight alternative to full engine hoists for jobs that only require lateral support.

How does this tool hold a front-wheel-drive engine steady?

The 5820 uses a telescoping transverse bar spanning the vehicle’s engine bay and a support arm that creates a three-point cradle, preventing shifts when removing a transaxle. Braided steel cables connect the arm to factory lift points with adjustable hooks so you can tune the setup for the engine’s balance point.

• Maximum capacity: 700 pounds for typical FWD engine/transaxle jobs
• Telescoping length: adjustable from 31 inches up to 64 inches
• 1/8-inch braided steel cables for reliable load transfer
• 14-inch adjustable hooks to fit common engine lifting points

Will it fit my vehicle’s engine bay and lifting needs?

The bar’s adjustable span (31–64 inches) fits a wide range of compact and mid-size cars; the support arm’s adjustability handles off-center engines and uneven load distribution. Confirm your vehicle’s under-hood clearance and engine lift-point locations before use to ensure safe attachment.

• Minimum span 31 in and maximum span 64 in for flexible fit
• Support arm provides lateral and angular adjustment for off-center loads
• Lightweight 21 lb tool for easier positioning and storage
• Designed for FWD transverse-engine layouts, not long inline engines

How do I set it up and what safety steps should I follow?

Position the telescoping bar across the fender tops or designated support points, extend to required width, then attach the support arm and clip the braided cables to engine lift points with the adjustable hooks. Always support the vehicle on jack stands, check secure connections, and gradually transfer load while monitoring stability.

• Center or offset the support arm as needed for engine balance
• Use factory lift points and ensure hooks are seated correctly
• Lift gradually and re-check alignment of the bar and cables
• Keep the work area clear and never rely solely on hydraulic jacks

What components and specs come with the 5820?

The package includes the transverse bar, the support arm that enables three-point support, braided steel cables, and adjustable 14-inch hooks. The overall tool weighs about 21 pounds and is rated for loads up to 700 pounds, making it suitable for routine transaxle removal tasks on many FWD vehicles.

• Support arm: three-point design for off-center stability
• Cables: 1/8-inch braided steel for strength and durability
• Hooks: 14-inch adjustable hooks to adapt to lift points
• Capacity: 700 lb; tool weight: 21 lb

Who is this for: The AP Astro Pneumatic 5820 is aimed at professional technicians and experienced home mechanics who perform front-wheel-drive transmission, transaxle, or engine support work and want a compact, adjustable solution instead of a full hoist. It’s especially useful in tight engine bays where lateral support is sufficient to complete the job safely and efficiently.