Engine Drop question, Been done to death I know.. just want to confirm Options

[stateofidleness]

Guys, first time I dropped an engine I had the help of a friend. This go round, I'm flying solo and wanted to see if this method would work just as well.

Instead of the "removing the wheels in the rear" route, I'd like to try:

1. Car on the ground like normal, all connections disconnected and "ready for dropping" except for the engine bar bolts and transmission mounts.

2. Transmission/ATV jack (harbor freight kind) raised up to the engine height and the engine/transmission then disconnected.

3. Lower engine/transmission combo as far down as transmission jack will allow it (about 4" off ground).

4. With engine still on jack and under the car, jack up the rear and place on ramps.

5. Drag engine/transmission out on the transmission jack.

Will this method work? Do you think there will be any clearance issues?

[URY914]

I've found it much easier then the car is raised up and level. Jack the front end as high as the ass end. Lowering the engine at an angle when the ass is jack up 3 feet in the air makes for problems.

[bigkensteele]

I've found it much easier then the car is raised up and level. Jack the front end as high as the ass end. Lowering the engine at an angle when the ass is jack up 3 feet in the air makes for problems.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif) I prefer the car to be level.

Can't remember where I read this tip, but it has served me well. I use two 18" pieces of 3/8" threaded rod with two flat washers and three nuts on each side. I raise the car as far up as I need it on 4 jackstands, and then put my jack under one side of the engine bar to hold it up while I remove the nut and bolt. I replace the bolt with the threaded rod put a washer on top and two nuts cinched together. Then a washer and the remaining nut on the bottom. Once tightened, remove the jack and do the other side the same way.

The drop - after loosening all electrical, fuel, etc. connections, place the floor jack under the transmission and remove the two transmission mount bolts. The drive train is now supported by the threaded rod in front, and the jack in back. Put your HF furniture dolly underneath. To lower it, simply loosen the bottom nuts on the threaded rod incrementally (you will need to hold the rod with your free hand to keep it from spinning).

The nice part about this method is that only one jack and one person is needed. It gives you complete control of the drop, so it is easy to make sure those injectors clear. AND, it is very safe. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)