Storing engine on engine stand

[crackers]

Hopefully I get the engine and gearbox out tomorrow.
This means I get to find out if that big heavy bench at the back of my shed is strong enough to store the gearbox :angel:

I plan to mount the engine on one of those engine stands that bolts onto the back of the engine. It'll be a while before I get around to working on the engine so it'll be there some time.
Is this a good idea? Will I be putting undue stress on the block if I leave it there for any length of time?

Dad suggested making a steel prop to support the front of the engine. Is this a good idea or just something to make me feel less anxious?

[Blknight.aus]

I usually stick a 4x4 or 2x4 from a pallet across the legs of the stand and then bolt a section of box steel to the front of it and find a suitable bolt to attach it to on the front if its going to be there for a while.

[crackers]

Thanks Dave. Pretty much what I was expecting.

Dad's good at making up stuff like that and he likes that sort of challenge so it'll be a nice project for him. He lives nearly an hour from me and photos and phone calls help to keep him in touch with the build, don't really give that involvement. He's coming down to help me get the motor out so we can nut out something then. Should be a good day actually, because my son'll be there too and my daughter spent this afternoon making choc chip biccies for lunch.