Coursey,
I had borrowed this same hoist from a friend a few years ago when I started my restoration. I used it to pull the engine, lift the subframe, etc. quite a few times. Then I decided to buy the same one for myself last year when HF had one of the big sales. I think I picked mine up for just at $100. I looked at the other options like you did and came up with prices 3-5 times more. I try to buy American made products when I can and from sponsors on this forum but this was one of those situations when that price just couldn't be touched. Since then I have used the hoist at least another half a dozen times with no issues. As others had mentioned the only thing I could see going wrong would be the hydraulic jack and you can replace that. So even if that happens I would still be below $150. If I had a shop and needed a dependable hoist everyday then I would definitely look into a more reputable/reliable brand. But if you are just needing to pull an engine and get it on a stand then I don't see an issue with the HF hoist. Come on everyone...admit it...you have at least 10 of those free HF led flashlights scattered across the garage and in your house now.