That engine-stand idea is priceless! And I happen to have an engine stand. Alas, would take up a lot of real estate in the workshop.

I'll check out the links to Park. Hoping not to break the bank, but...

The wood I intended to attach to is 1x8 stock boxing in the steel pole, well anchored top and bottom (I built it all out after we had the basement excavated under the house). I could double up on the side with the stand, etc., but even leaning on it while removiong a fixed cup I just doubt the loads are that great and I'd risk it. Hmm, not hard to conceive a "collar" of 1X stock to help distribute the stresses.